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Dental Implants

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The goal of implant therapy is to restore the patient to normal contour, function, comfort, esthetics, speech, and health.

Dental implant is a titanium post that mimics a tooth root and is surgically positioned into a jawbone by a surgical specialist. A general dentist will then restore the implant after an appropriate period of healing. Additional grafting/reconstruction is often performed at the time of implant placement. Implants replace single or multiple teeth and may also be utilized to help the support and retention of a removable prosthesis.

Patients may have unique circumstances surrounding their implant placement. In our practice, we customize every treatment for each patient.

Dental Implant FAQs

What are dental implants, and how do they work?

Dental implants are small titanium or ceramic posts that act like artificial roots for missing teeth. They are placed in the jawbone, where the bone grows and fuses to them. A crown, bridge, or denture is then attached, creating a secure, natural-looking replacement. The ADA and implant societies describe implants as a well-studied, predictable treatment for missing teeth.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Good candidates have healthy gums, enough bone to support an implant (or the ability to have bone grafting), and good overall health. People with uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or certain medical conditions may still have implants but need extra planning and care. A full medical and dental evaluation helps decide the safest plan.

How long does the dental implant process take from start to finish?

The total process often takes several months. After the implant is placed, it usually takes about 3–6 months for the bone to fully fuse to it. Then a small connector (abutment) and the final crown or bridge are attached. If bone grafts or sinus lifts are needed first, this can add more healing time.

Are dental implants permanent or do they need replacement?

Dental implants are designed to be long-term or even lifetime solutions. Large studies and long-term follow-ups show implant survival rates around or above 95% over many years, especially with good home care and regular professional follow-up. Dental implants act very much like natural teeth, which means they can also face some of the same problems. Just like real teeth, implants rely on healthy gums and bone to stay strong. If plaque builds up, if there’s too much pressure from grinding, or if home care isn’t consistent, the tissues around an implant can become inflamed or damaged.rnIn short, implants are strong and reliable, but they still need the same daily care and regular check-ups as natural teeth to keep them healthy.

How should I care for my implants after placement?

You should brush and clean around implants just like natural teeth, using any special brushes or floss recommended. Regular professional cleanings and checkups are important to keep the gums and bone around implants healthy and to catch any problems early. Avoiding smoking and keeping medical conditions like diabetes well controlled also helps protect your implants.