What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium device that is placed in the jaw and serves as a replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a very solid anchor. Dental implants can be used for replacing single or multiple missing teeth, as well as supporting removable dental prosthetics.

Why dental implants?

A dental implant will maintain the bone where a tooth was removed. Otherwise the jawbone will shrink in all dimensions. An implant will add strength and stability to your dentition. Once in place, it will feel natural like your other teeth, and they are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.

Are dental implants successful?

From years of clinical experience and millions of patients treated, statistics confirm a success rate of over 98 percent.

When are dental implants recommended over partial dentures or a dental bridge?

Options for tooth replacement include: a removable partial denture, a fixed bridge, or a dental implant.  When an implant is possible it adds strength to the dentition, sometimes becoming the strongest tooth of all.  When there are no other teeth to use as bridge supports, or when the other teeth are inadequate supports for a bridge is when dental implants become the preferred option.  Dental implants also eliminate the need to modify other teeth.

How much time is required for a dental implant treatment?

The first stage of treatment is the surgical placement of the dental implant in the jaw where there once was a tooth. Time is then required for the dental implant to osseointegrate to the jawbone before the abutment crown can be attached to the implant. This healing time varies on many factors. The total treatment time continues to decrease, but is usually between two and six months. 

How much do dental implants cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants depends on several factors including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support your replacement teeth. The total fee consists of three steps: 1) Surgical placement which may require bone grafting or sinus lifts. 2) The type of abutment (the very technical part inside the implant that the crown attaches to) and 3) The type of crown desired.  Each step has options that influence the total fee. We recommend dental implants when the benefits outweigh the costs.  The total fee for a single tooth replacement with implant, abutment, and crown begins at $4,100.

Is the treatment painful?

With any surgery, there can be some discomfort in placing the implant on the first appointment. Our experience is that most patients experience less discomfort than what they were anticipating.  The additional steps in restoring the implant cause no discomfort and do not require local anesthesia.

How will I care for my dental implants?

Your implant supported crowns need to be cared for just like your natural teeth. During your regular cleaning appointments we will provide instructions for your specific situation.