Definitions of Risk to Implants

Dental Implant Prosthesis Is Produced In The Dental Laboratory
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High Risk: If a bare minimum number of implants are placed, and the bone fails to integrate with one or more implants, additional surgical procedures will be necessary at an additional cost to the patient in order to provide adequate support for the restoration. There is a high risk of future complications due to lack of bio-mechanical support.

Moderate Risk: If the bone fails to integrate with one or more implants, then additional surgical procedures may be indicated at an additional cost to the patient in order to provide adequate support for the restoration. There is a moderate risk of future complications. In some circumstances, implant loss may require prosthesis revision (shortening).

Low Risk: If the bone fails to integrate with one or more implants, there is little chance of the need for an additional surgical procedure. There is a low risk for future complications.

Continuing Care

Maintenance is a very important aspect of dental implant treatment. Oral hygiene cleanings on a 3 to 6 month schedule, periodic screw checks or screw replacement and adjustments are recommended. New veneering materials or a whole new prosthesis may be necessary over time due to normal wear and tear and ongoing function. Please ask for details about continued maintanance.

Definitions of Risk to Prosthesis

High Risk: There is a high probability that complications may occur which require extensive intraoral or laboratory repairs of veneering materials, supporting structure or components.

Moderate Risk: There is a moderate probability that complications could occur which may require intraoral or laboratory repairs of veneering materials, supporting structure or components.

Low Risk: There is a low probability that complications could occur which may require intraoral or laboratory repairs of veneering, supporting structure or components.

Bruxing and Clenching: The risk of complications to the prosthesis are not only related to the materials used, but also to the type of forces generated on those materials. Patients with parafunctional habits including, but not limited to bruxing and clenching, are highly susceptible to complications. While there is no way to eliminate these habits, fabrication and use of an occlusal guard will provide protection during the hours it is worn. Acrylic fractures are repairable, however, porcelain fractures are not. Any repairs, revisions or alterations will require additional charges. Porcelain fractures may require additional procedures to resolve functional and/or esthetic concerns. Food may collect under any implant restoration. Frequent irrigation with diligent home care and regular oral hygiene cleaning by a dental hygienist specializing in dental implant treatment will prevent soft and hard tissue complications. Temporary filling material used to cover the screw access holes may become loose. This presents no danger to the restoration. Some patients prefer to have the access holes filled with composite, a more permanent material but more difficult to remove should the need arise.

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