Dental Implant Restoration Q&A with Austin Dentist, Dr. Eric Broberg
Dr. Broberg, do you also do implants or just restorations? We do the restorations (ie. crowns, bridges, dentures, etc.) for the implants. We work closely with fantastic surgeons that actually place the implants.
Why might a patient need implant restoration? What types of cases do you see coming in for this? An implant replaces a missing tooth. Sometimes we see patients that have had a tooth or teeth missing for years. Other times, we see patients that have a tooth that is not salvageable due to fracture, decay, gum disease, etc.
In either case, patients will choose implants because they want to regain the function, comfort, and cosmetic appeal that comes from having a full set of teeth.
How do you restore an implant? What is the process like? It's going to be different with everyone, but what do you do to determine what needs to be done, how many appointments can it take, etc. The general implant process involves a comprehensive exam to determine the best overall plan for each patient. Once it is decided that implants are needed, and then the patient is referred to the surgeon for placement of the implant. The implant then heals and fuses with the bone so that it becomes a strong, sturdy support for the future restoration. Depending on the situation and healing time needed, the restoration may be done immediately after implant placement, or it may be up to 6 months. If the implant won’t be restored immediately, then there are temporary restorations we can make to give the patient the function and look of having teeth during the healing period.
Why should a patient choose you, Dr. Broberg, for their implant restoration? Implants are done in a lot of dental offices, and there are a lot of good dentists in Austin. Implants are a continuously evolving field in dentistry, so we have committed to hours and hours of continuing education to keep up with the latest tools and techniques. What you should know about ME is that I am a perfectionist. If something isn’t perfect with your implant, I’d be willing to bet that it bothers me more than it does you! I’m not satisfied until you’re satisfied and your smile is exactly how you want it. The other thing that sets us apart is our values. We listen to the patient’s desires and will never pursue any treatment that you’re not 100% comfortable with. We take patient comfort, both mental and physical, incredibly seriously. Our treatment chair even heats and massages! We can get you numb in a way that makes you wonder if you even had an injection. We have sedation options if you’re nervous, we have blankets if you’re cold, we have TVs if you want entertainment. Basically we’ll do anything to make your visit comfortable and pleasant!
Does insurance cover this? If not, what kind of options do you offer for patients? Care Credit, etc. Insurance coverage is variable – every patient’s plan is different. If insurance won’t cover it, there are plenty of options to make implants affordable, such as Care Credit.
Is there a common question you get asked about implant restorations? The most common question I get is “Will it hurt?”. The answer is no! I think that question stems from the idea of what an implant is: a tiny post that is placed in the bone where the tooth used to be. It’s important to remember that implants are placed when the patient is numb and often sedated as well. Healing is typically uneventful, especially if you follow the surgeons instructions. It’s actually a pretty simple process and a fantastic way to regain the confidence to chew and smile after a tooth is lost!
Dr. Eric Broberg is a premier cosmetic dentist in Austin. His practice is located at 9521 W US Hwy 290 Service Rd #103, Austin, TX 78737. Be sure to check out his eBooks and interviews!
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