Have questions about our dental services, specialties, or what to expect as a new patient? You’re in the right place!
We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about our practice, procedures, and patient experience to help you feel informed and confident in your dental care.
A prosthodontist is a dental specialist with 3 additional years of advanced training after dental school focused on complex restorations, dental implants, full-mouth rehabilitation, and esthetic dentistry. We specialize in rebuilding and replacing teeth — especially complex cases involving implants, bite problems, and full-arch reconstructions.
Some prosthodontists both surgically place and restore implants; others work in collaboration with oral surgeons or periodontists and focus on designing and restoring the final teeth.
Our role is to plan the case from start to finish to ensure the final teeth look natural, function properly, and last long-term.
It depends on the case:
- Single implant: 3 – 6 months
- Multiple implants: 4 – 8 months
- Full-arch (All-on-4 style cases): Temporary teeth often same day, final teeth 4 – 6 months later
Healing time and bone condition determine the timeline.
Most healthy adults are candidates.
However, we evaluate:
- Bone volume and density
- Gum health
- Medical history
- Smoking status
- Bite forces
Even if you were told “you don’t have enough bone,” modern grafting techniques may make implants possible.
Traditional dentures:
- Removable
- May move or slip
- Less chewing power
Implant-supported teeth:
- Fixed (or very stable)
- Feel more natural
- Restore stronger bite function
- Help preserve jawbone
This is often life-changing for patients.
Cost depends on:
- Number of implants
- Bone grafting needs
- Type of final restoration
- Full arch vs single tooth
Single implants typically range from $3,500 – $6,000.
Full-arch implant solutions vary significantly.
We provide a detailed treatment plan and financial options after your evaluation.
Most patients report minimal discomfort.
Implant surgery is typically easier than a tooth extraction.
We use local anesthesia, and sedation options may be available for anxious patients.
With proper care:
- Implants can last 20+ years
- Many last a lifetime
- The crown or prosthesis may need maintenance over time
Regular hygiene visits are critical.
Failed implants can often be corrected.
We evaluate:
- Why it failed (infection, bite overload, bone loss, design issues)
- Whether bone grafting is needed
- Proper prosthetic planning
Many patients come to prosthodontists specifically for revision cases.
Most implant procedures are partially covered at best.
We:
- Help maximize insurance benefits
- Provide detailed estimates
- Offer third-party financing options
- Structure phased treatment plans when needed
- We do not have affiliation with any insurance company.
Full mouth rehabilitation (also called full mouth reconstruction) is a comprehensive treatment that rebuilds or replaces all of the teeth in the upper and lower jaws to restore function, bite balance, comfort, and esthetics.
It is not cosmetic dentistry — it is functional dentistry with esthetic refinement.
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Severe tooth wear (grinding or erosion)
- Multiple broken or failing teeth
- Chronic jaw pain or bite problems
- Long-term missing teeth
- Advanced restorations that are failing
- Difficulty chewing comfortably
A full diagnostic evaluation determines whether limited treatment or full rehabilitation is best.
Common causes include:
- Bruxism (grinding/clenching)
- Acid erosion (reflux or diet)
- Old crowns and fillings failing
- Missing teeth causing bite imbalance
- Trauma
When the bite collapses, it can lead to muscle strain, joint discomfort, and further tooth damage.
It is primarily functional and medical.
The goal is to:
- Restore proper bite alignment
- Protect the jaw joints (TMJ)
- Re-establish chewing efficiency
- Prevent further breakdown
Improved esthetics are a major benefit — but function comes first.
Treatment length varies depending on complexity:
- 3 – 6 months for moderate cases
- 6 – 12 months for complex implant or multidisciplinary cases
Phases often include:
- Diagnostics and planning
- Provisional (temporary) restorations
- Final restorations
Yes.
Temporary restorations are critical. They:
- Allow you to “test drive” your new bite
- Refine esthetics and phonetics
- Ensure comfort before final restorations are made
Provisionalization is one of the most important phases of full rehabilitation.
Yes — but in a positive way.
Many patients don’t realize how much their bite has collapsed. After rehabilitation, patients often report:
- Less jaw tension
- Better chewing ability
- Improved facial support
- More balanced smile
There is an adjustment period, but we carefully guide you through it.
Most treatment involves crowns, veneers, implants, or onlays — procedures typically done under local anesthesia.
Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and manageable.
If implants or surgery are involved, healing time is planned carefully to minimize discomfort.
With proper planning and maintenance:
- High-quality ceramic restorations can last 15 – 25+ years
- Implants may last decades
- Nightguards are often recommended to protect the investment
Longevity depends heavily on bite design and patient maintenance.
Costs vary widely based on:
- Number of teeth involved
- Implant needs
- Type of materials used
- Complexity of bite reconstruction
Typical ranges can vary from $30,000 to $90,000+ depending on complexity.
A detailed diagnostic workup is necessary before providing a precise estimate.
