A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. After the implant fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), it can support a crown, bridge, or prosthesis, providing a permanent solution for missing teeth.

Most people who have healthy gums and sufficient bone density in their jaw are candidates for dental implants. However, individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or those who smoke heavily may require additional considerations. Your dentist will evaluate your oral and overall health to determine suitability.

The procedure is typically done in multiple stages over a few months. The initial surgery to place the implant may take 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity. After the implant is placed, it requires several months to integrate with the bone before the final prosthesis is attached.

Local anesthesia is used during the procedure as well as IV sedation, so you should not feel pain. Post-surgery discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Swelling and bruising are also common but should subside within a few days.

As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, nerve damage, implant failure, or damage to adjacent teeth. However, these complications are rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced dental professional.

Recovery time varies from person to person. Generally, the initial healing phase after implant placement takes about 1-2 weeks, during which swelling and discomfort are common. Full integration of the implant with the bone can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

After getting a dental implant, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups. This helps prevent infection and ensures the longevity of the implant.

Yes, although dental implants have a high success rate (around 95-98%), they can fail in certain situations, such as if there is infection, insufficient bone, or excessive stress on the implant. Proper care and follow-up visits can reduce the risk of implant failure.

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, although the crown or other restoration placed on the implant may need to be replaced after several years.

Dental implant surgery is often considered a cosmetic procedure, so not all insurance plans cover it. However, some plans may provide partial coverage, particularly if the implant is being used to restore the function of a missing tooth. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for details.

The success rate of dental implants is very high, generally around 95-98%. Factors such as the patient’s oral health, lifestyle, and the quality of the bone where the implant is placed can affect the success of the procedure.

If you have insufficient bone density, there are procedures, such as bone grafting, that can be done to rebuild the bone before implant placement. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your bone structure and discuss options to ensure successful implantation.

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on factors like location, the experience of the dentist, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, dental implants can cost between $36,000 and $45,000.

After getting a dental implant, most patients can return to normal eating after a short recovery period, though they may need to avoid very hard or sticky foods initially. Your dentist will provide guidance based on your specific procedure.

If you choose not to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant, nearby teeth may shift, leading to bite problems or difficulty chewing. Additionally, the bone around the missing tooth may weaken over time due to lack of stimulation.

Maybe. If the implants are okay, we might just remake the bridge.

Cost and training can be reasons. We’ll show you why guides matter.

It could be weeks (for a new bridge) or months (if surgery is needed).

Possibly. Conscious sedation leaves you relaxed, but you may still feel pressure and numbing shots.

GA gives them better control, better irrigation, and a smoother experience.

Yes—when done by trained professionals under established safety guidelines.

Often a 6-person team: anesthesiologist, surgeon, prosthodontist, and trained assistants.