Dental Implants
Some of the most innovative dental techniques of the past several years have occurred in the field of restorative dentistry, particularly with dental implants. Traditionally, patients with missing teeth have been treated with removable dentures and dental bridges. While these treatments have advantages, the fact is they require daily maintenance and are sometimes unreliable both functionally and aesthetically. Dental implants can resolve these issues and restore a more normal way of life for patients with missing teeth.
Our board-certified implant dentist, Dr. John D. Beckwith, has completed extensive post-graduate education, research, and clinical experience in the field of implant dentistry. As a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), Honored Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), and Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI/ID), Dr. Beckwith is one of the leading dental implant providers in the country, and has achieved the highest level of expertise in this complex specialty.
- What Are Dental Implants?
- Dental Implant Benefits
- Choosing an Implant Dentist
- Dental Implant Candidates
- Dental Implant Procedure
- How Long Dental Implant Surgery Takes
- Does Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?
- Dental Implant Lifespan
- Dental Implants and Bone Structure
- Dental Implant Cost
- Complete Dental Implant Care in One Location
- Additional Dental Implant FAQs
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a revolutionary tooth replacement option composed of three parts: a titanium rod that is implanted into the jaw, a tooth-colored restoration, and an abutment to securely connect the two. Implants can effectively restore a person’s ability to chew, talk, and smile like normal. They can also serve to maintain healthier bone structure than one may experience with dentures or a dental bridge, and they do not affect the health or appearance of adjacent teeth. Affixed to the jawbone to become a permanent part of your mouth, dental implants are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. In fact, a dental implant makes it difficult, if not impossible, to notice that your tooth replacement isn’t an actual tooth.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have both functional and aesthetic benefits, helping patients in ways that improve their daily lives and restore confidence in their appearance. Some of the advantages of dental implants include:
- Permanent replacement for missing teeth
- They often look and feel more natural than a partial or full set of dentures
- No extra daily maintenance other than routine brushing and flossing
- No slippage or movement along the gumline
- Improved ability to speak and chew
- Can prevent a sunken appearance in the face that is often caused by missing teeth
- Can replace a single missing tooth, or a full set of missing teeth
- Can be used to provide extra support and stabilization for a dental bridge, partial denture, or full denture
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Why Choose Cornerstone Dental for Your Dental Implant Procedure?
Dr. John D. Beckwith places strong emphasis on advanced dental implant procedures and implant restoration treatments at Cornerstone Dental. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), Honored Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI/ID), which requires its candidates to complete six years of implant dentistry, present cases for review, and pass a series of examinations. These advanced positions indicate he has the highest level of competency in performing implant dentistry—an area that has become a major focus of Cornerstone Dental. His certification with the ABOI/ID is indicative of his dedication and commitment to helping patients achieve high-quality options to replace missing teeth with results that look and feel natural. Dr. Beckwith has achieved a higher level of post-graduate education than many other dentists who offer dental implants and implant restorations, and this sets him well apart from the rest.
At our practice, patients have the option of completing the entire dental implant procedure, from the implantation process to the placement of the crown—eliminating the extra time, inconvenience, and risk of attaining inconsistent treatment results. For patients who have had implant placement by an oral surgeon, Dr. Beckwith is often referred to by those professionals for customized restorations and cosmetic dental crowns as the final touch. His reputation as a consummate cosmetic dentist in addition to his expertise in implant dentistry is one reason many other dental professionals refer their patients to Dr. Beckwith. Having an implant dentist with an extensive background in cosmetic dentistry place and restore your dental implants can provide you with significant benefits. Dr. Beckwith can offer you the professional treatment you expect and deserve from an experienced and skilled dental team. We offer the highest level of expertise and care for all of our patients. At Cornerstone Dental, it is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach—we provide customized treatment plans for each patient and an evaluation process that gives you a number of different options. It is this comprehensive, patient-centric approach that we believe can result in successful outcomes that will be most beneficial to your goals.
In addition to Dr. Beckwith’s impeccable credentials and record of success, he makes it a point to embrace the latest technology to assist him in giving patients the best possible results. Dr. Beckwith utilizes the state-of-the-art ScanX Digital Panoramic X-Ray System for evaluating patients who are considering dental implant procedures. This advanced imaging system presents a clear view of the entire upper and lower teeth and jaw while significantly reducing exposure to radiation. Our team also utilizes CBCT (or CAT scan) technology for the most accurate diagnosis and to allow for immediate planning. This also enables us to perform computer guided implant surgery with optimal precision while providing a shorter recovery time.
Learn more about choosing an implant dentist.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
During your initial consultation here at Cornerstone Dental, you will be given a comprehensive oral evaluation to determine your candidacy for dental implants. Good candidates for this procedure may include:
- Patients with missing teeth who are looking for alternatives to dentures or bridges
- Patients who have healthy jawbone density in order to support the implant
- Patients who do not have a disease or condition which can slow or prevent the healing process after implant surgery
- Patients who are not currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer
If you are not determined to be a good candidate for dental implants, Dr. Beckwith can recommend a number of treatment alternatives that can help you effectively replace missing teeth. In fact, patients who are not candidates for full dental implant procedures may qualify for treatment with mini-dental implants. Dr. Beckwith will explain all of your options at your initial consultation.
What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Involve?
Replacing missing teeth with implants is a procedure done in stages. During your comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Beckwith will discuss all aspects of the procedure with you and present you with a number of dental implant options, which may include single-tooth implants, implant-supported dentures, or All-on-Four dental implants. He will then create a personalized treatment plan that is based on your individual needs and goals. Once this is accomplished, the treatment process can begin. This process typically includes:
The first stage of dental implant placement is the placement of the implant itself. Dr. Beckwith will perform oral surgery to place a strong titanium rod into the area of the missing tooth. The rod will then work to fuse itself to the jawbone, ultimately becoming a permanent part of your mouth. This fusion process, called osseointegration, typically takes about three to six months. During that time, you can have a temporary crown placed onto the implant.
Some patients may need a bone graft to provide support for the implant. This extra step occurs before placement of the titanium rod to ensure a more viable foundation for the implant.
Attachment of the Post
In some cases, once the osseointegration process has successfully occurred, Dr. Beckwith will need to attach a small post to the implant. The gum tissue surrounding the implant is then given time to heal in preparation for the dental crown – the final step in the dental implant procedure.
Attachment of the Dental Crown
Finally, a custom-made dental crown is affixed to the post. The crown is made specifically for you, so it will provide the most natural fit and appearance. Once this is complete, you should have a permanent replacement for your missing tooth with results that improve both form and function of your teeth.
Missing Denture Replacement
If you have had a previous tooth replacement treatment with dentures and have since lost one or more dentures from the original set, Dr. Beckwith may be able to replace them with dental implants. In some cases, Dr. Beckwith can also use mini-dental implants, as explained below, to provide added support for existing dentures and keep them from excessive movement and slippage along the gumline.
Mini-Dental Implants
Mini-dental implants are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and can serve as an effective alternative for patients who are having trouble adjusting to dentures or those who are not candidates for full dental implants. This less invasive implant dentistry technique can help to give dentures more stability and security without the danger of gliding across the surface of the gums. The mini-dental implant procedure typically involves only one stage of treatment, as opposed to the three-stage process with full dental implants. A small titanium rod will be placed into the gum in the area of the missing tooth. This rod is designed to provide the same structural support as a natural tooth root. A denture will be affixed to the top of the rod, and the procedure is then complete.
Mini-dental implants can give you stable and secure dentures with long-term results. Plus, they can reduce common problems many people have with traditional dentures, such as trapped food particles. Although not permanent, mini-dental implants can be very long-lasting and can provide you with natural-looking results and improved function of your teeth.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?
The duration of the process varies from case to case. To replace teeth that are already missing, the process can take up to four months. If the teeth need to be removed and replaced, the process can take 6-8 months. While the dental implant can often be placed in the first visit, it takes a period of months for the implant to adequately fuse to the jawbone and become a permanent part of your mouth. During this period, a temporary crown can often be attached to the implant. Once the proper fusion has occurred, the permanent crown will be placed for the final result.
Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?
Dr. Beckwith uses a local anesthetic during surgery to minimize any pain or discomfort. Any discomfort you experience after surgery can be alleviated with medication.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants can offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. The life of an implant can be as long as 20-30 years or longer. Both functionally and aesthetically, dental implants are designed to provide patients with a precise replica of a natural tooth.
Do Dental Implants Affect My Bone Structure?
Dental implants do not affect your overall bone structure. In fact, they help maintain the bone structure. With other missing teeth replacement options, such as fixed dental bridges, the bone and soft tissues of the gums can break down over time. Full dental implants and anchor-supported dentures eliminate this problem.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants depends on several factors, including how many implants need to be placed, the type of implants, and how much your dental insurance will cover. Generally, the cost of a single-tooth implant can range anywhere from $1,800 to $5,000. During your initial consultation, Dr. Beckwith will discuss all aspects of treatment with you, including the cost of treatment.
Read more about dental implant cost.
Complete Dental Implant Care in One Location
Every step of the dental implant process is completed in-house at Cornerstone Dental—from the diagnosis and planning to the implant and restoration placement. Having undergone extensive training and demonstrated advanced skill in the complex procedure, Dr. Beckwith has achieved the elite statuses of Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology and Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology. Combining his expertise with state-of-the-art diagnostic and computer-guided technologies allows him to plan and perform the implant procedure with incredible precision.
By having all stages of the dental implant procedure completed in one location, patients can benefit from a more efficient process with fewer office visits and an expedited recovery. In addition, Dr. Beckwith can ensure your comfort and safety at every visit while producing the most predictable results possible.
To learn more about dental implant solutions, please visit our specialty website dedicated to dental implants.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How many dental implants will I need?
The number of dental implants you will need ultimately depends on factors such as the number of teeth that are missing, jawbone density in the areas of missing teeth, and the type of dental implant restoration you will be receiving. If you have only one missing tooth, a single dental implant is likely all that is necessary. If you have missing teeth in multiple areas, a dental implant may be used to replace each tooth individually or an implant-supported denture may be recommended, which may require at least four dental implants to provide a secure foundation.
How successful are dental implants?
According to a study published in the Journal of Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery1 in 2022, the success rate of dental implants was 97% at 10 years post-treatment. This is a remarkable rate of success and exemplifies the effectiveness of dental implants as a treatment for missing teeth. With that in mind, successful long-term outcomes rely on proper care of your implants and oral health. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding the use of tobacco products can significantly increase the chance that your dental implants will last decades into the future.
How does smoking affect dental implants?
Smoking may lead to implant failure and many other complications. The effects of smoking and tobacco use can potentially cause an infection, which may extend or hinder the healing process. It is recommended that patients completely stop smoking a minimum of one month prior to implant placement and take measures to ensure they do not resume the habit after the surgery.
Will I need a bone graft before dental implant surgery?
Not all patients will need a bone graft before dental implant surgery; however, some may require this treatment to qualify as a good candidate for dental implants. If there is not a sufficient amount of jawbone density in the area of missing teeth to successfully accommodate an implant, bone grafting may be necessary to enhance jawbone strength. Dr. Beckwith will be able to make a recommendation once he has evaluated your oral structures during the initial consultation.
How do I clean dental implants?
Cleaning and maintenance of dental implants is typically very similar to standard daily oral hygiene routines. In fact, this is one of the major benefits of this restorative treatment option. For most patients, regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are all that is necessary to keep the implants clean and healthy for years to come.
Do I need to avoid certain foods with dental implants?
In the long-term, most individuals will not need to restrict their diets for dental implants. For a brief period following implant placement, it is best to stick to soft foods until Dr. Beckwith has determined that the recovery process is complete and that it is safe to consume harder food items. In general, patients are often advised to avoid chewing on hard candy, popcorn, nuts, ice cubes, apples or raw carrots, chips, steak, and other tough or sticky foods as the treatment sites heal. Our dental team will provide you with detailed recovery guidelines and we can talk with you about when it will be possible to consume more of your favorite foods after dental implant surgery.
If you have additional questions about dental implants, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation, please contact Cornerstone Dental today.