Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Owoc
Q: What is a Prosthodontist ?
A: A Prosthodontist is one of the recognized specialties of Dental Medicine. A Prosthodontist is a dentist who has undergone extensive specialty training in cosmetic, removable, reconstructive, and implant dentistry. This involves an additional 3 years of training after dental school.
Q: What is a Surgical Prosthodontist?
A: A Surgical Prosthodontist is a Prosthodontist who has undergone further training and has graduated from a university based fellowship program in oral implantology. The surgical training received during this time period qualifies a prosthodontist to perform all aspects of implant surgery, including bone grafing and implant placement.
Q: What is the Owoc Institute of Surgical Prosthodontics?
A: The Owoc Institute of Surgical Prosthodontics is not a specific location. Moreover, The Owoc Institute is a training style and philosophy which encompasses all aspects of oral implantology, from surgery to restoration. Courses through the Owoc Institute are offered throughout the country and world-wide. However, Dr. Owoc’s Private Practice Patients are seen in one of his Pittsburgh, PA practices located at the following addresses:
Kevin J. Owoc, DMD, MSD
117 Fox Plan Road
Suite # 202
Monroeville, PA 15146
Office Phone: 412-373-1999
White Oak Dental Associates, LLC
1220 Lincoln Way
Suite # 202
White Oak, PA 15131
Office Phone: 412-664-1112

Q:Why Should a Patient choose the Owoc Institute?
A: The Owoc Institute is a choice for many patients because of the ability to have all procedures related to their implant care performed by Dr. Owoc, himself. Many other practitioners must refer their patient out for various procedures, requiring extra travel and possible complications in treatment outcome. Additionally, Dr. Owoc is able to provide patients with a wide range of care from basic Hygiene and Cleanings, to general and cosmetic dentistry.
Q:Why should clinicians choose the Owoc Institute for education and training?
A: Unlike many other implant training programs and courses, Dr. Owoc is able to offer the unique insight and training from both a surgical and prosthodontic viewpoint. He is able to share complications and theory from surgery to restoration which is often lacking in many other courses or lectures.
Q: If I’m interested in learning more about how dental implants can help me, what should I do?
A: Call one of Dr. Owoc’s office at the numbers listed above and schedule a consultation appointment. During that time, dental implants will be explained to you in a way which you can understand, and Dr. Owoc will discuss with how you the next step.
Q: What are Dental Implants?
A: In simple terms, dental implants are like screws that are inserted into the jawbone to support a tooth or denture.
Q: Are all patients candidates for implants?
A: Most patients are candidates for dental implants. Age is not a contraindication for implant treatment. However, certain conditions, such as diabetes, smoking, bone density issues, or other peripheral or vascular conditions can affect the success rate of the implant procedure, which is normally about 95% in healthy individuals.
Q: What is a bone graft?
A: A bone graft is a procedure that your surgeon performs in order to allow enough room to place the implant(s) in the desired position for your particular needs. There are many types of bone grafts, and depending on the particular deficiency present, your surgeon will decide and discuss with you the various options available to reconstruct the deficient bone volume.
Q: What is a CT scan and why do I need one?
A: A CT scan is a very detailed x-ray that allows the implant surgeon to see your bone height and width in all dimensions. It is the most accurate representation of your jaw possible. This assures that the doctor can choose the implant size and position which is best for you. Additionally, the CT scan assures you that the implant surgeon is minimizing the chances of nerve injury or other complications.
Q: What should I do if I’d like to have dental implants but can’t afford them?
A: Dental implants are much more affordable than most people think. Additionally, the benefits one receives from dental implants is truly remarkable for most patients. To learn more about how you can afford implants, call and schedule a consultation at 412-373-1999 or 412-664-1112.