Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts that we surgically place in your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once the implant fuses with your bone (usually 3-6 months), we attach a crown that looks and functions just like your natural tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants don’t rely on other teeth for support and can last decades with proper care.

Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the implant procedure actually is. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely, and many patients report feeling less discomfort than they expected. You might experience some mild soreness for a few days after surgery, similar to having a tooth extracted, but over-the-counter pain medication usually manages this well. Dr. Fenton also offers sedation options if you’re feeling anxious about the procedure.

Dental implants typically range from $3,000 to $5,000 per tooth, including the implant, abutment, and crown. While this represents a significant investment, implants often last 20-30 years or even a lifetime with proper care, making them cost-effective long-term. We accept most dental insurance plans, and many cover a portion of implant treatment. We also offer financing options to help make your treatment more manageable.

The complete implant process usually takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The initial implant placement appointment takes about 1-2 hours per implant. Then there’s a healing period of 3-6 months while the implant fuses with your jawbone. Once healed, it takes another 2-3 weeks to create and place your custom crown. We can often provide a temporary tooth during the healing period so you’re never without a smile.

Most adults with good overall health and adequate jawbone can receive dental implants. You’ll need healthy gums and enough bone structure to support the implant. If you’ve lost bone due to missing teeth, we can often perform bone grafting to create the foundation needed for successful implants. Factors like uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or certain medications might affect healing, but Dr. Fenton will evaluate your specific situation during your consultation.

Caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit us for routine cleanings every six months. The crown can be cleaned just like a natural tooth, but the gum area around the implant needs special attention to prevent infection. We’ll show you proper cleaning techniques and may recommend specific tools like water flossers or special floss designed for implants.

Many dental insurance plans now cover a portion of dental implant treatment, typically 50-80% of the procedure. Coverage has improved significantly in recent years as insurers recognize implants as a standard treatment rather than cosmetic. Some plans may cover the crown portion even if they don’t cover the implant itself. We’ll verify your specific benefits and help you understand what’s covered before treatment. Our team also assists with pre-authorization paperwork to maximize your insurance benefits and avoid surprises.