At Highview Dental, our doctors have over 15 years of experience restoring dental implants.  For many of our patients, implants are the best option for replacing a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

• They look and feel and function just like natural teeth.
• You can eat any types of food.
• Implants do not get cavities.
• You can smile with confidence.
• They can last a lifetime when properly cared for.
• Implants are permanent (not removable).
• No need to rely on surrounding teeth for support (bridges and dentures do rely on other teeth for support).
• Placing an implant helps to maintain the bone structure after the loss of a tooth.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant basically consists of 2 parts which replace the natural tooth “root” and “crown”:

• A bio-compatible screw replaces the part of the tooth that is below the gums (the “root“).  This part comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and is generally made of titanium.
• An “implant crown” replaces the part of the tooth above the gums.  It is generally made of metal, zirconia, porcelain or a combination of those materials.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

As long as your general health is stable, you are very likely to be a good candidate for a dental implant or implants.  You will receive a thorough medical history review and also a complete dental examination before an implant is recommended.

Ideally you would have a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone to provide support for the implant.  However, there are a variety of techniques that are available which allow those with non-optimal bone to still receive dental implants.

Am I Too Old or Too Young for Dental Implants?

There is generally no age restriction for a dental implant (although we do not place implants during the early teen years since the jaw bone is still developing).  If your health is stable enough to have a tooth removed, you are very likely healthy enough for an implant.

Describe the Appointments for the Dental Implant Procedure

In many cases it takes three appointments for dental implant treatment:

• In the first appointment the implant “root” is placed.  You are given the same type of local anesthesia that you receive when you have a cavity filled.  Once you are numb, this is a quick and painless procedure.  At Highview Dental we ensure that only the most qualified specialists perform this procedure.
• The second appointment is about three to six months later.  You will have an impression taken.  This appointment is quick and completely painless and requires NO anesthesia.
• The final appointment is one to two weeks later.  You will now receive your final implant crown.  Again this appointment requires NO anesthesia and is pain free.

How Long do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are one of the most predictable and long lasting dental procedures available.  They have an extremely high success rate and can last your entire life if cared for correctly.