Dental Implants are appropiate for almost anyone who is missing teeth or at risk of losing teeth because of cavities, gum disease, accidents, etc.

• Individuals with loose or poor fitting dentures due to flat ridges.
• Individuals with multiple missing teeth who need support for permanent teeth.

In such patients, normal eating and speaking habits are affected and in many cases individuals are completely unable to wear dentures. This loss of function is the primary reason dental implants are recommended. Along with improving an individual's ability to chew and enjoy food, dental implants can make the patient feel more secure as speech and appearance are often improved as well.

During the first appointment, specialized diagnostic studies are performed to determine the ideal treatment for each person.

After careful evaluation of your health history, Dr. Alvarez  will alert you to any conditions that may affect your treatment. Remember, age is not a factor

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Research and documented scientific studies have proven the effectiveness and long lasting success (over 30 years) of dental implants. If this treatment is provided by an experienced implantologist, your implants could last a lifetime.

You can rely on your new teeth to look, feel and function like natural teeth for years to come. There is no need to cut down healthy teeth and dental implants keep the bones from shrinking after losing your theeth.

Dental implants have a survival rate of aproximately 99%. The training and experience of  your Implantologist also contributes to overall survival rates.

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No, Implants are made of  the most biocompatible material known which have undergone extensive testing over a period of several years. Since these materials are biocompatible metals, such as titanum,  there is no likelihood of causing an antigen-antibody response which could cause rejection similar to that which sometimes occurs with heart and kidney transplants.

Dental implants are made of titanium which is the most accepted metal in the human body.

In the unlikely event an implant fails it can usually be replaced by a new implant.

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First Surgical Phase (Implant Placement) Under Local anesthetic Dr. Alvarez places dental implants into the jaw bone with a very precise surgical procedure. The implant remains covered by gum tissue while fusing with the jaw bone.

Prosthetic Phase (Teeth) Once the gums have healed, an implant crown is fabricated and screwed down to the implant.

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A) How long is the treatment ?

From a few months to a couple of years, depending on the simplicity or complexity of your dental-oral situation.

B) Will I have teeth all the time ?

Some patients are required to keep removable bridges out for a few days. Some however, can have their teeth all the time..

C) Is it painfull ?

No, most patients report minor swelling, and no pain at all. It is important to follow the post-operative instructions for proper healing.

D) Will I be off work ?

Most patients only require one or two days of rest. You can continue with your life normally.

E) Is there a follow-up appointment ?

Yes, to ensure you are healing fine without complications.

F) Why did dental implants became so popular ?

As our lifespan increases, the need for some type of permanent dental replacement system becomes very important to our overall health. Dentures and removable bridges have obvious problems: They are loose and unstable. Implants can provide people with dental replacements that are both functional and esthetic.

G) What if I have lost bone ?

With new bone grafting/regeneration techniques, almost anyone can be a good candidate for treatment.

H) What is an artificial bone substitute ?

Bone Grafting.- Sometimes, when resorption has excessively reduced the jawbone, it can be rebuilt throught modern bone grafting techniques. Bone grafts can build up or fill in jawbone defects allowing the placement of dental implants. These techniques represent one of the greatest advances in modern dentistry.
Modern bone grafting techniques can be nothing short of a miracle for those needing bone replacement. Should Dr. Alvarez recommend this treatment you will be given further information on the type, location and amount of graft needed.

I) Are implant supported teeth as strong as my natural teeth ?

Yes. Research shows that in many cases implants are actually stronger then natural teeth. Compared to removable teeth, studies show implant supported teeth have 100 percent or better chewing efficency. Dental implants can make it possible for your to enjoy your favorite foods, improve your nutrition and your appearance!

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A) The cost of dental implants

The cost of implant treatment depends upon the number and type of implants placed and the type of replacement teeth needed. For example, replacement of a single tooth using implants costs about as much as a dental bridge. The bridges necessitates "cutting down" adjacent teeth for crowns. Implant treatment does not. More complex treatment, such as bone grafting, will add to the cost.
The improvement in your self confidence, comfort, eating habits and appeareance will make dental implant treatment one of the best investments you've ever made!
The number of implants used for a given restoration is most important in terms of the success of the restoration, not the overall fee.
It is certainly much more cost effective when the same dentist both places and restores a patient's dentition.
A survey of 350 patients after completion of their implant treatment revealed that not only was it worth the investment, but that they would happily do it again.

B) Is there a guarantee ?

Since there are health conditions and habits out of our control, the treatment can't be guaranteed. However, the implant manufacturer covers the implant for 10 years.