Dental Implants Indianapolis
Dr. Lane is a Top Indianapolis Periodontist, specialty trained in Dental Implant placement.
- Why Should You Schedule an Implant Consultation with Us?
- What are Dental Implants
- Types of Implants that we offer
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Full Mouth Dental Implant Dentures
- Bone Grafting and Buildup
- Sinus Lift Procedures
- 3D Diagnostic Technology
- Sedation Options
Why should you schedule a Dental Implant Consultation with Indy East Perio?
Schedule your Dental Implant Consultation utilizing 3D X-Ray Technology today. If you have insurance, your consultation might be fully covered. Call us for a benefits assessment.
What are Dental Implants?
Replace Missing or Damaged Teeth with Natural-Looking Dental Implants
Dental implants are modern, efficient and the most sensible alternate to natural teeth which may have been lost or damaged. Implant Supported Crowns look and feel natural, give you a perfect smile and better dental health.
We offer Dental Implant Supported Crowns for patients who have damaged a tooth or lost multiple teeth. These are artificial tooth roots (surgical grade titanium) that are implanted into the jaw to support the replacement tooth. Afterwards, we will take a mold of your teeth and send it to a laboratory, where qualified technicians use the impression to build a custom made crown specifically designed for your implant.
Plus, we have 3D Cone Beam Diagnostic Technology, which allows us to get a better picture of your existing bone mass. You should never get a dental implant without having a 3D image completed first!
What are the Benefits of a Dental Implant?
- Dental implants don't rely on neighboring teeth for support.
- Dental implants are permanent and stable.
- They will not come loose like dentures.
- They prevent your other teeth from shifting around due to the loss of a tooth.
- Dental Implants prevent bone loss in your jaw.
Is it painful to receive a dental implant?
Modern technology, CT technology, and sedation dentistry minimizes discomfort associated with receiving dental implants. Our team is trained and certified to offer sedation dentistry. This allows for a very relaxed and comfortable experience, no matter the extent of dentistry needed.
Patients of Indy East Periodontics report feeling very little discomfort during and after treatment.
How should I choose a dental implants specialist in Indianapolis?
It is important to choose a dentist that has advanced training in Implant Dentistry, as well as many years of experience in placing and restoring dental implants.
Dr. Lane is a Hoosier with a diverse educational background. She earned her Bachelor's in Psychology at Loyola University in Chicago. Next, she earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Marquette University School of Dentistry. Dr. Lane completed her periodontal training at Indiana University School of Dentistry where she obtained her Certification in Periodontics, Master's Degree in Dentistry, and a minor in Oral Pathology. She served as chief resident during her residency and was a recipient of the prestigious Swenson Award, which is awarded to the top resident for excellence in clinical and academic performance.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
A good candidate for dental implants will have healthy gums and enough bone in the jaw to support the implant. If the bone in your jaw is insufficient (too thin or soft) to anchor and support an implant properly then you may require a Bone Grafting procedure before the implant can be placed.
You also may require a Sinus Lift if there is not enough bone height in your upper jaw or if your sinuses are too close together.
Your implant specialist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants with the use of 3D Cone Beam CT Scan. This type of x-ray will allow our doctors to accurately evaluate in a very comprehensive way your existing jaw anatomy that directly effects dental implant placement. This information is imperative for the success of a dental implant procedure.
Do not have an implant placed by any dental professional without a 3D Cone Beam CT Scan!
The Dental Implant Procedure
The implant placement procedure is as follows:
- The titanium implant is placed in the jawbone surgically by our dental implant surgeon. They will use the information gathered from the 3D Cone Beam CT Scan in addition to 3D software to precisely place the dental implants in the best location possible.
- Healing time typically takes a few weeks to a few months. During this time the titanium implant will actually fuse with your natural jaw bone in a process called osseointegration. This will create a stable foundation for the crown that will be placed at the end of the healing process.
- Once the osseointegration process is complete and the implant has completely fused to your jawbone, an abutment is placed on top of your gumline. This is what the crown will be attached to when it is time to be placed.
- In the last step of the process, a single crown, an implant supported bridge or a denture is attached to the abutment to complete the procedure.
Types of Dental Implants We Offer
Indy East Periodontics uses the highest quality, American-made implants in our procedures. There are several different options:
- Single Implant - Tooth Replacement: This is an ideal if you are missing a single tooth. A single implant is placed and a crown restoration is then attached on top of the implant to replace the missing tooth. This is a full crown that is attached, not a tooth cap like what is normally used to cover a damaged tooth. A dental implant, if properly maintained, can last a lifetime. It is a much more reliable option than a bridge or flipper.
- Multiple Implants - Teeth Replacement: If you are missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth, a multiple implants solution may be your best option. Two fixtures are implanted and the crowns or fixed bridge are attached to them.
- All-on-4 and All-on-6: We can now replace an entire arch using as few as four dental implants! We customize the number of implants to be placed depending on each patient’s jaw. The implants are placed around your dental arch, with two angled at the back of your jaw for stability. A restoration (bridge or denture) is then attached. This gives you the look and function of a full arch of teeth without using an implant for every missing tooth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Dental implants are able to give you a superior level of support and stability when used with dentures. Implant-supported dentures use a few implants to keep your denture in place. A bar runs from one implant to the others and attaches to the back of the denture to keep it in place. This eliminates the need for messy denture adhesives and restores the full look of your smile. You can finally eat the food you want to eat!
- Implant-Retained Dentures – These are similar to implant-supported dentures in that they use dental implants to secure dentures, but they are still removable. The implants have ball fixtures placed on top of them, and the denture can snap into the balls.
Cost of Dental Implants
The Price of Dental Implants in Indianaplolis
Did you know? Dental implant cost can be spread out over time with convenient payment plans. Many patients mistakenly think that they will need to pay the entire cost, up front. The reality is that the entire dental implant procedure can take some time and involve several steps. That means that you will have the ability to pay for each procedure as it is completed.
The Cost of Dental Implants is a LIFETIME Investment in YOU
Dental Implants are a LIFETIME investment in your health as well as your appearance. A full set of teeth makes eating a pleasure again, making it easier to eat a balanced, healthy diet. A full set of teeth also preserves the contours of the face, keeping you from looking old before your time.
Dental implants may seem expensive, especially when they are compared to other tooth replacement methods like dentures and bridges. However, those methods typically have to be repaired or replaced every 5 to 10 years. The cost of that regular maintenance can eventually equal the cost of implants. With regular brushing and flossing, the implant screw itself can last a lifetime, assuming you continue to get regular dental check-ups every 6 months.
Dental implants also prevent your jawbone from deteriorating due to missing teeth. Dentures and bridges can’t do that. As your jaw deteriorates, your face shape can change. You’ll start to look older and your existing teeth will start to become loose. The jawbone provides the structure that holds your teeth’s roots in place. Once it’s gone, you’ll lose your other teeth as well.
How can I determine what the EXACT costs of my implants will be?
The exact price of dental implants can only be determined by a thorough examination by our dentist. Each case can be slightly different, and each patient's needs can differ. We will use our state-of-the-art technology and 3D Diagnostic X-Rays to determine your exact needs. Our dentist will use the 3D scan image to determine the density of the bone and to see whether you’re a candidate for an immediate implant or if some additional grafting will be needed prior to implant placement. Contact us for a dental implant consultation!
Dental Implant Cost – Dental Insurance
Great News! If you have traditional dental insurance it will likely cover some of the costs for dental implants.
Traditional insurance is welcome and accepted at our practice. As a courtesy, we will gladly file insurance claims on your behalf. Dental insurance generally does not cover all dental implant expenses. Dental insurance is designed to help reduce your out-of-pocket dental expenses and there will be some sort of out-of-pocket expense that you will be expected to pay at the time of service. Luckily, we also offer financing options (below).
Dental Implant Cost – Convenient Financing Options
First, check with your dental insurance carrier to see what portion, if any, of dental implants they cover. Third party healthcare financing can be used to cover your out of pocket expenses. Third party healthcare financing can work several different ways. While all are based on your credit, some require down payments while others do not. The terms for how long you can extend your payments can also vary. Regardless of your financial situation, there may very well be a financing option that will work for you! We are pleased to offer several different financing options depending on your needs.
Want to know how much Dental Implants will cost for you?
Call us now or click the button below to schedule your consultation!
Don’t let price fears stop you from getting the implants you need!
Request an initial consultation to find out exactly what you need done and what it will cost. We will work with you to design a customized treatment plan for you and present all financing options to help you get the new smile you deserve.
Full Mouth Dental Implant Dentures
Advantages of Full Mouth Denture Implants
You can eat the foods you want to eat (confidently).
You can smile without fear of your teeth falling out.
You can talk without using your tongue to hold in your teeth!
Traditional dentures are often ill fitting and lack stability, cause irritation to the gums and may make it difficult to eat certain foods. Patients who have received implant supported dentures from Indy East Periodontics often report feeling like they have their natural teeth again. They report being able to eat all foods and enjoy smiling confidently. Read our patient testimonials.
All-on-4 and All-on-6
We can now replace an entire arch using as few as four dental implants! The implants are placed around your dental arch, with two angled at the back of your jaw for stability. A restoration (bridge or denture) is then attached. This gives you the look and function of a full arch of teeth without using an implant for every missing tooth.
Removable Denture Implants
Removable supported dentures can be removed, but are far more secure than those without the support of dental implants.
Removable supported dentures can be secured with as few as 4 implants. With more implants, the denture becomes more secure. After a complete examination, Dr. Lane will provide you with the best teeth replacement options for your unique needs.
Fixed Denture Implants
Fixed dentures permanently replace a full set of teeth and prevent bone loss. Because of their strength, dental implants are the ideal anchor for dentures. When dentures are attached to implants, they will never become loose or slip.
Implant Secured Partial Fixed Denture
A bridge (partial fixed denture) is used to replace one or several missing teeth. Without an implant, the bridge is secured to the remaining tooth or teeth. In some instances, this can cause loosening of the anchoring teeth (abutment). With an implant, the bridge (partial fixed denture) is not reliant on surrounding teeth.
Whether you are considering a full set of dentures or a partial denture (or bridge), implant-supported dentures provide strength and durability for a long-lasting, functional and beautiful smile.
Bone Grafting and Buildup
Some people do not have enough healthy natural bone to support dental implants. Natural bone insufficiency can be caused by:
- Gum disease
- Tooth development defects
- Wearing dentures long term
- An injury to the face or trauma
- Spaces left empty in the mouth after teeth are removed
- Dental procedures where efforts were not made to restore natural bone
In these cases a Bone Graft will need to take place before the implant can be surgically inserted. In this procedure bone material, either from your own body or a cadaver, is filled into the area of your jaw where the implant will eventually be placed. An incision is made in your gum to accomplish this. The site is then stitched up and may be covered with a thin membrane during the healing process, which can take from 3 to 6 months. During this time your dentist may create a “flipper” tooth to wear in your mouth as you heal. This is a removable denture made of acrylic that is intended to fill in the gap until it is time to place the implant. There are other temporary options for tooth replacement during the healing process, as well. Be sure to discuss them all with your dental implant specialist.
Sinus Lift Procedure
A Sinus Lift is surgery that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area. The bone is added between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are on either side of your nose. To make room for the bone, the sinus membrane must be lifted or moved upward. This procedure is done when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw for dental implants to be places. A Sinus Lift will also be done in cases where the sinuses are too close to the jaw for dental implants to be places.
There are several other reasons why a Sinus Lift is needed:
- If you have lost teeth in your upper jaw and your jaw does not have enough bone to support dental implants.
- Bone loss caused due to periodontal (gum) disease.
- Tooth loss may lead to bone loss. The bone resorbs once teeth are gone, if you have been missing teeth for a long time there may not be enough bone left to place dental implants.
- The maxillary sinus may be too close to the upper jaw for dental implants to be placed. The shape and size of sinus varies from person to person. Age may cause sinus to get larger also.
Prior to the Sinus Lift Procedure, the doctor will require a cone-bean CT scan before your Sinus Lift so the doctor can study the jaw and sinus. We use cone-beam CT scans to accurately measure the height and width of of your existing bone.
After the Sinus Lift procedure there will be some swelling in the area. There may be some minor bleeding. Do not blow your nose or sneeze forcefully while healing. We will ask that you return to the office within 7 to 10 days to evaluate the surgical site and remove stitches if they do not dissolve on their own. After the Sinus Lift procedure it will take a few months for healing. Once healing is complete, dental implants may be placed four to nine months.
3D Diagnostic X-Rays
3D Cone Beam X-Rays
In an effort to continue to offer our patients the newest and safest technology, our dental office has implemented cone beam 3D diagnostic technology. This technology surpasses the traditional two-dimensional technology, such as digital X-rays and standard film, in many ways. The benefits of cone beam 3D technology include:
More accurate images- Less exposure to harmful radiation
- Ability to comprehensively evaluate all bony anatomy
- More cost-effective for both the patient and the dentist
- Better patient understanding of their dental health
- Images taken in an open environment, increasing patient comfort
More accurate imagesWith cone beam 3D imaging, we can be more precise in diagnosing dental problems, including conditions that are more difficult to diagnose with traditional X-rays. Cone beam 3D diagnostic imaging also helps our dentists predictably and successfully place dental implants. We can utilize cone beam 3D imaging to assist in planning and completing several types of treatment, including dental implants, root canal treatment, and more.
Sedation Options
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is the use of local anesthesia or a numbing medication injected in the area of the mouth to be treated. This type of anesthesia blocks the sensation of pain during and after a surgical procedure.
Nitrous "Laughing Gas"
Are you nervous about going to the dentist? You don’t need to be nervous about coming to our practice. We offer oral surgery sedation to relax our patients.
Nitrous Dentistry
Nitrous Sedation is a controlled mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen that you breath in with a nasal mask. This type of sedation will allow you to feel relaxed and less nervous during the procedure. An oral medication can be administered with nitrous oxide to produce a more relaxing experience.
Also known as laughing gas, Nitrous is beneficial in calming a patient’s anxiety before a procedure. It is a non-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.
It is used primarily for its anesthetic and analgesic properties. It is a safe and effective gas that is inhaled by the patient. It is a commonly used sedation technique in dentistry.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Are you extremely anxious about visiting the dentist? We can administer an oral sedative to relax you before performing any procedure. Safe and effective, Oral Sedation allows you to remain awake and aware, but your anxiety will be reduced for any dental procedure.
Oral Sedation can also be combined with a light amount of Nitrous Oxide gas to increase your relaxation.
Sedation Dentistry
Advantages to patients include:
- Treatment is completed when you are in a more relaxed mood.
- You will have less difficulty sitting through a lengthy procedure.
- Multiple treatments and full mouth restorations can occur during the same visit.
- Less discomfort after treatment.
IV Sedation
Comprehensive Conscious IV Sedation (moderate)
Conscious IV Sedation is also known as “twilight sleep”. The team of doctors at Coastal Jaw Surgery are specialty trained to offer this type of sedation. It is particularly good for patients with strong gag reflexes, high dental anxiety or for those patients requiring multi-visit procedures that can be done in the same visit such as multiple implants. IV Sedation is also used in most oral surgery. The patient will be groggy after the procedure and as such, will need a friend or family member to drive them home as well as monitor them for the next few hours.
General Sedation
General anesthesia is a combination of oral and IV (intravenous) medication that will sedate you to a level of unconsciousness. Depending on the amount and type of medication administered will determine the depth of unconsciousness. In your unconscious state, you will not have any fear and anxiety. General anesthesia is a very safe and effective way for patients to tolerate complex dental treatment.