What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Once it integrates with the bone, it acts as a stable root that supports a custom restoration on top. The result is a tooth replacement that looks and functions like the real thing.
Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants address the problem at the root level, literally. They are the only solution that stimulates the jawbone and helps prevent the bone loss that follows tooth loss.
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Natural appearance and feel
Implants are custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Because the post fuses with the jawbone during healing, the restoration sits securely and feels like part of your mouth rather than a prosthetic.
Stability you can rely on
Once integrated, a dental implant does not shift or move. A dental crown, dental bridge, or implant-supported dentures can be permanently attached to the post, giving you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without concern.
Long-term bone health
The implant post stimulates the jawbone the same way a natural tooth root does, encouraging new bone growth and helping to maintain the structure of your jaw over time. No other tooth replacement option provides this benefit.
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Implant restoration options
The implant post itself is not visible. What you see is the restoration placed on top of it. Depending on how many teeth need to be replaced, there are several restoration options available:
- Dental crown: The most common restoration, used to replace a single missing tooth.
- Dental bridge: Used when multiple consecutive teeth are missing, supported by one or two implant posts rather than natural teeth.
- Implant-supported dentures: A removable prosthetic clipped onto two or more implants for improved stability and comfort.
Your dental implant treatment journey
Assessment and planning
Your first appointment involves a thorough examination including x-rays and a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan of your jaw. This allows your dentist to assess bone density, map the anatomy of the area, and plan the precise placement of your implant before any procedure begins.
Placing the implant
The surgical site is numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure starts. A small opening is made in the gum tissue and a precise channel is created in the bone where the implant post is carefully positioned. Sutures may or may not be needed depending on the case.
Finalizing the restoration
After placement, the implant is left to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone over the course of several months. Once fully healed, your custom restoration is fitted and secured to the post. You leave with a fully functional tooth that is ready for everyday use.
Schedule your exam and consultation
Your visit begins with a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and bite. We want to understand the full picture of your oral health before recommending any course of treatment.
Before moving forward, we take the time to learn about your health history, any concerns you may have, and what you’re hoping to achieve. Our goal is to make sure you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way. Contact us today to book your appointment.
Cost of dental implants in Charlotte, NC
The cost of a dental implant varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of restoration required. A single implant typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 or more without insurance. Full-mouth implant solutions vary widely depending on the number of implants and the restoration chosen.
Factors that influence the overall cost include:
- The number and type of implants required.
- The materials and restoration used.
- The location and complexity of the surgery.
- Whether preparatory treatments such as bone grafting are needed beforehand.
An accurate quote can only be provided after an in-person examination. Your dental team can prepare documentation to submit to your insurance provider so you have a clear picture of your costs before committing to treatment.
Are there other options for missing teeth?
Depending on how many teeth are missing, a dental bridge or dentures may also be worth considering. Bridges and dentures tend to involve a lower initial cost, but they do not replace the tooth root or prevent bone loss the way implants do. They may also require adjustment or replacement over time.
Dental implants generally require a greater upfront investment but are designed to last decades with routine oral care and regular teeth cleanings. Your dentist will walk you through all available options so you can make the decision that best fits your health needs and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a dental implant post can last a lifetime. The restoration on top, such as a dental crown, may need to be replaced after ten to twenty years depending on wear. Your dentist will monitor both the implant and the restoration at routine exams.
Most adults with good general health and adequate jawbone density are candidates for implants. Patients with certain health conditions, those who smoke heavily, or those with significant bone loss may require additional evaluation or preparatory treatment such as bone grafting before implant placement can proceed. A thorough assessment will determine whether implants are appropriate for your situation.
The area is fully numbed before the procedure begins. Most patients report that the procedure itself is more comfortable than expected. Some swelling, tenderness, and mild discomfort in the days following placement is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Your dental team will provide specific aftercare instructions to support your recovery.
The timeline varies depending on your individual case. After the implant is placed, the post needs several months to fuse with the jawbone before the final restoration can be attached. If preparatory work such as a dental extraction or bone grafting is needed, this adds time to the overall process. Your dentist will give you a realistic timeline at your consultation.
Implant failure is uncommon but can occur. Risk factors include smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, poor oral hygiene, and insufficient bone density. Signs that something may be wrong include persistent pain, swelling, or movement of the implant. Attending follow-up appointments and maintaining good oral hygiene significantly reduces the risk of complications.
Yes. The restoration placed on top of the implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. Once in place, it is designed to be virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth.
Bone loss does not automatically disqualify you from receiving a dental implant, but it may mean that a bone grafting procedure is needed first to build up enough bone to support the implant securely. Your dentist will assess the condition of your jawbone using imaging and advise you on whether grafting is necessary before moving forward.
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