Start-to-Finish Dental Implants

The Dental Implant Process

Implant Placement

First, we’ll use our smile preview software to precisely plan where we’ll place your implants in the jawbone. Then, Dr. Leath will surgically place the implants into your jawbone. The implants will take a few months to heal and fuse with the jawbone before we move forward with attaching your replacement teeth.

Restoration Phase

Once your implants are fused with the bone, we’ll create a custom tooth restoration to attach to your implants. For single tooth replacement, we recommend dental crowns, for multi-tooth replacement, we can fabricate bridges or dentures to fill in the gaps in your smile. No matter how many teeth you’re missing, all of our restorations are custom-designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth!

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most healthy adults with one or more missing teeth are good candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates have healthy gums and enough jawbone density to support the implant. Even if bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may make implants possible. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, oral health, and treatment goals to determine if implants are right for you.

What is the healing process like for dental implants?

The healing process for dental implants happens in stages. After the implant is placed, the jawbone naturally fuses with the titanium post through a process called osseointegration. This usually takes several months, during which the implant becomes strong and secure. Temporary restorations may be used so you can smile confidently while healing. Once the area is fully healed, we’ll place your permanent crown, bridge, or denture.

How many implants can I get?

Dental implants are highly versatile; you can replace a single tooth with one implant and crown, multiple teeth with an implant-supported bridge, or even a full arch with implant-supported dentures. Full-arch restorations don’t require an implant for every missing tooth; instead, just 4-6 implants can securely anchor a complete denture. Whether you need one replacement or a full smile makeover, we’ll design a treatment plan customized to your needs, comfort, and long-term goals.

What can I eat after dental implant placement?

After dental implant surgery, it’s best to stick to soft foods for the first few days to allow for proper healing. Foods like yogurt, applesauce, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are gentle and easy to eat. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods that could disturb the implant site. As healing progresses, you can slowly reintroduce more solid foods. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Are dental implants expensive?

Dental implants are an investment in your long-term oral health, and while the upfront cost is typically higher than other tooth-replacement options, their durability and natural appearance make them a cost-effective choice over time. Because implants can last for decades with proper care, many patients find them to be a worthwhile, lasting solution. For more financial information, we recommend visiting our financial page, and for specific financial questions, please contact our friendly front office team.