Dental Implant FAQ
Your Questions About Dental Implants, Answered
What Should You Know Before Choosing Dental Implants?
What Makes Dental Implants Different?
Replace the Tooth Root
Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth, providing a stable foundation for a custom restoration.
Restore Function
Implant-supported restorations can help restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with greater confidence.
Support Long-Term Oral Health
Replacing a missing tooth and maintaining good oral hygiene can help support the health and function of your smile.
What Does the Dental Implant Process Look Like?
01
Consultation
Your oral surgeon evaluates your oral health, jawbone, and treatment goals.
02
Implant Placement
The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root.
03
Healing
The implant heals and integrates with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration.
04
Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, your custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Many people who are missing one or more teeth may be candidates for dental implants. However, successful treatment depends on factors such as your jawbone, gums, oral health, and overall health.
If you have bone loss, gum disease, or other oral health concerns, these conditions may need to be addressed before implant placement.
The best way to know whether dental implants are right for you is to schedule an evaluation with our oral surgery team.
You may be a candidate if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Have healthy or treatable gums
- Have sufficient bone or may be able to receive bone grafting
- Want a stable tooth replacement option
- Are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental care
Specialized Care. Advanced Technology. Personalized Treatment.
Experienced
Oral Surgeons
Our board-certified oral surgeons have specialized training and experience to provide expert surgical care across a wide range of oral and maxillofacial procedures.
Advanced
Technology
We use modern technology and advanced treatment techniques to help diagnose conditions accurately, plan procedures carefully, and provide precise surgical care.
Personalized
Patient Care
Every patient is different. We take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small post, typically made from titanium or another biocompatible material, that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once healed, it can support a crown, bridge, or denture.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed as a long-term tooth replacement solution. Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, overall health, regular dental care, and proper maintenance of the restoration.
Am I too old to get dental implants?
Age alone does not determine whether you are a candidate for dental implants. Your oral health, bone structure, overall health, and ability to heal are more important factors.
Do I need enough bone for dental implants?
Dental implants require adequate bone support. If bone loss has occurred, your oral surgeon may recommend bone grafting or another procedure to create the support needed for implant placement.
Is dental implant surgery painful?
Anesthesia and sedation options can help keep you comfortable during surgery. Some soreness, swelling, or bruising may occur during the recovery period.
How long does the dental implant process take?
Treatment time varies depending on your individual case. Some patients may need additional procedures before implant placement, and the implant must heal and integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration is attached.
How long does it take for an implant to heal?
The healing period varies by patient and treatment. Osseointegration—the process in which the implant integrates with the surrounding bone—must occur before the final restoration is placed.
Can I get an implant immediately after a tooth extraction?
In some cases, an implant may be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction. Whether immediate placement is appropriate depends on factors such as the condition of the tooth, surrounding bone, gums, and presence of infection.
What is All-on-4®?
All-on-4® is a full-arch implant treatment concept that uses four strategically placed dental implants to support a complete arch of replacement teeth.
What is Teeth-In-A-Day?
Teeth-In-A-Day refers to an approach where implants and a temporary restoration may be placed during the same treatment visit for appropriate patients.
What is guided implant placement?
Guided implant placement uses 3D imaging and digital treatment planning to determine the ideal position of an implant before surgery. A custom surgical guide may then be used during implant placement.
How should I care for my dental implants?
Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and proper care of your restoration are important for maintaining your implant and the surrounding tissues. Follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgical team.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage varies depending on your plan and treatment. During your consultation, our team can discuss the expected treatment costs and available payment or financing options.
How much do dental implants cost?
There is no single cost for dental implant treatment. The total depends on factors such as the number of implants, type of restoration, complexity of treatment, and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are needed.