Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Missing a tooth affects how you chew, speak and smile. Dental implants are one of the most durable ways to replace it — but they aren’t the only option. Here’s how to tell whether they’re a good fit for you.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant has three parts: a small titanium post placed in the jawbone, a connector called an abutment, and the visible tooth on top — usually a crown. The post bonds with the surrounding bone over time and acts like a new tooth root. Implants can also anchor a bridge or a full set of teeth.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:

• Are missing one, several or all of your teeth
• Have healthy gums, or are willing to treat gum disease first
• Have enough jawbone to hold the implant, or bone that can be built up
• Are healthy enough for a routine oral surgery procedure
• Are ready to brush, floss and keep up with regular checkups

Some factors call for a closer look before treatment, including smoking, which can slow healing, and certain health conditions. Share your full health history at your consultation so your dentist can plan safely. If gum disease is present, gum disease treatment usually comes first.

The Implant Process, Step by Step

1. Consultation and 3D scan. Your dentist examines your mouth and takes a 3D cone beam CT scan to measure the bone and plan the exact implant position.
2. Implant placement. The titanium post is placed in the jawbone during a short surgical visit.
3. Healing. Over the next few months — often three to six — the bone bonds with the implant.
4. Final tooth. Once healed, your custom crown, bridge or denture is attached to the implant.

Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures

A bridge fills a gap by attaching a replacement tooth to crowns on the neighboring teeth, so those teeth need to be reshaped. A denture is removable and can replace many teeth at once, but it can feel loose over time. An implant stands on its own, doesn’t rely on neighboring teeth and helps preserve the jawbone. For patients missing most or all of their teeth, All-on-4 secures a full arch of teeth on four implants.

You can compare all of these options on our All Services page.

How Long Do Implants Last?

With good home care and regular checkups, the implant post can last for many years. The crown on top may eventually need replacing because of normal wear, just like a natural tooth’s filling or crown.

Paying for Implants

Some dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of implants or the crown on top. Our team can check your benefits before treatment. For the remaining balance, financing through Cherry lets you split the cost into monthly payments, subject to approval — try our payment calculator to estimate yours.