Question:

I had two upper back teeth removed from the right side more than 25 years ago and recently had to have two crowns on the left lower back teeth. I was looking at having implants in the upper jaw. But, because the teeth have been missing for such a long time, can this be done and how much work and cost does it involve?

Answer:

Replacing missing teeth is an important treatment and maintains function by preserving chewing ability and bone. As a general rule, bone tends to resorb (or shrink away) when it stops being stimulated by the presence of teeth or chewing. The quantity and quality of available bone in the site will need to be thoroughly assessed with X-rays or CT scans prior to commencing as this will be the limiting factor in treatment costs, scope and success.

The actual placement of implants is not a difficult procedure for you to endure and the first stage generally involves an incision and having the implants inserted into the bone and then covered over to allow them to integrate (bond to the bone). After a period of three to six months, the implants are uncovered and the crowns are then fitted to them to complete the treatment.

The costs for implants vary from case to case, but you can estimate that treatment will be between $5500 and $7000 per tooth in most cases.

For more information please visit Dr Angelo Lazaris's website.