Dental Implants

Serving Warren, Grosse Pointe Woods, Rochester Hills, Macomb, Washington, & New Baltimore

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants | Overview of Implant Placement | Healing after Dental Implant Surgery | Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

A natural tooth consists of two main parts: the crown, which is the visible part used for chewing, and the root, which anchors the tooth securely beneath the gum line and into the jawbone. Implant-supported replacement teeth share these same basic components. The difference is that the root of an implant is made of titanium, a durable and biocompatible material widely used in medical surgeries, including artificial joint replacements.

When a tooth is lost, both the root and crown are gone. To replace it, our surgeons first inserts a titanium implant, which serves as a replacement for the tooth’s root.

Dental Implant Illustration
Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.  A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology,  Dr. Hackenberger, Dr. Kraemer, Dr. Sclafani, Dr. Lehal, Dr. LeRose, Dr. Coviak, Dr. Szandzik, Dr. DeMerle are able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist.  Dr. Hackenberger, Dr. Kraemer, Dr. Sclafani, Dr. Lehal, Dr. LeRose, Dr. Coviak, Dr. Szandzik, Dr. DeMerle performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.  The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Discover More About Our Dental Implant Services:

“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Overview of Implant Placement

The Dental Implant Surgical Procedure

The procedure for placing a dental implant typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for a single implant, or 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. Your experience may vary based on your individual needs. Before surgery, antibiotics and sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or intravenous sedation will be discussed with you during your consultation. Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area being treated.

The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone, create space using specialized tools, and gently insert the titanium implant. In some cases, the implant may be visible through the gum, but often it’s covered temporarily for healing purposes.

Stages of Implant Placement:

A depiction of the upper jaw with all normal teeth
1. Normal: A Normal Upper Jaw with Healthy Teeth
An example of the upper jaw missing a tooth with the jaw bone unhealed
2. Tooth Loss: The Jawbone is Unhealed after a Tooth is Lost
A representation of a healed upper jaw bone after losing a tooth
3. Healed Bone: The Jawbone Heals after Losing a Tooth
A digital representation of the initial dental implant placed in the jaw bone
4. Implant Placed: The Implant Placed in the Jaw
A representation of the healed jaw bone after placement of the dental implant
5. Healing: The Jawbone has Healed Around the Implant
An example of a fully restored tooth using a dental implant
6. Implant Restored: The Final Restoration with Implant

Complete Your Smile with Dental Implants Today!
Contact one of our offices today!

Warren / Sterling Warren / Sterling Heights Office Phone Number 586-755-9340

Grosse Pointe Woods / Detroit Grosse Pointe Woods / Detroit Office Phone Number 313-885-8344

Rochester Hills / Troy Rochester Hills / Troy Office Phone Number 248-293-5500

Macomb / Clinton Township Macomb / Clinton Township Office Phone Number 586-286-1600

Romeo/ Washington Romeo / Washington Office Phone Number 586-752-9691

New Baltimore / Chesterfield New Baltimore / Chesterfield Office Phone Number 586-725-2400

Healing after Dental Implant Surgery

Healing times vary from person to person, depending on the quality of your bone. In some cases, implants can be restored immediately after placement, while in others, healing may take longer. During follow-up appointments, the surgeon may place an abutment or healing cap on the implant to guide the gum tissue’s growth and prepare for the crown.

Impressions of the implant may be made during this phase to prepare the final crown. Depending on the healing process, 1 to 4 follow-up appointments may be required to ensure proper healing.

Sometimes, a soft tissue graft may be recommended to improve the appearance and health of the gum tissue around the implant, ensuring that the restoration looks natural and is easy to clean.

When are dental implants placed?

Implants are usually placed several months after a tooth extraction, although in some cases, they may be inserted immediately after the extraction. Immediate placement can simplify the process but involves slightly more risk. For patients with bone loss due to a long period without a tooth, bone grafting may be necessary to ensure the implant has a solid foundation.

How many implants do I need?

Typically, one implant is placed for each missing tooth. For larger teeth in the back of your mouth, multiple roots may require a larger implant. If you are replacing many or all of your teeth, multiple implants or a full-mouth restoration can be customized to meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants:

1.How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The titanium material is durable and resistant to wear, but the replacement crowns or bridges may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years depending on usage.

2. Are dental implants painful?

Dental implant surgery is generally well-tolerated. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, so you won’t feel any pain while the implant is placed. After the procedure, there may be some discomfort, swelling, or bruising, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients report minimal discomfort once healing begins.

3. How long does the dental implant procedure take?

Placing a single dental implant typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. If multiple implants are being placed, the procedure may take a few hours. The total length of time needed for the entire process—including healing and the placement of the final restoration—can take several months, depending on your individual situation.

4. What is the healing time after dental implant surgery?

Healing time can vary depending on the patient and their overall health, but it generally takes 3 to 6 months for the implant to fully fuse with the bone (a process called osseointegration). During this time, the jawbone heals around the implant, creating a strong bond. You will likely need a few follow-up visits to monitor the healing progress.

5. Can dental implants be placed immediately after a tooth extraction?

Yes, in some cases, dental implants can be placed immediately after a tooth extraction. This process is called “immediate implant placement.” It is ideal for patients with healthy bone and no infection. However, if there are complications such as infection or insufficient bone density, waiting until the area heals may be necessary.

6. How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the type of restoration, and whether bone grafting is required.  The long-term benefits and durability often make dental implants a cost-effective solution compared to other alternatives like bridges or dentures.

7. Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Most people who are in good health and have enough bone density in their jaw are candidates for dental implants. If you’ve been missing teeth for some time and have experienced bone loss, bone grafting may be needed to restore adequate bone structure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your specific case and determine if dental implants are right for you.

8. What are the benefits of dental implants over dentures?

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures:

  • Improved Comfort: Implants are anchored directly into the bone, so they don’t slip or move, unlike dentures.
  • Better Function: Implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to chew food comfortably and speak without worry.
  • Long-Term Solution: Unlike dentures, which may need to be relined or replaced, dental implants are a permanent solution.
  • Preservation of Bone: Implants help prevent bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing, whereas dentures do not stimulate the bone.

9. Will I need to take any special care of my dental implants?

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings are all important steps to ensure the longevity of your implants. You should also avoid habits like smoking, which can affect healing and the success of the implant.

10. How long will it take to get my permanent restoration after the implant is placed?

Once the implant is placed and the bone has healed around it (typically 3 to 6 months), a support post (abutment) is attached, and a custom crown or bridge will be fabricated. The time it takes to create and place the final restoration depends on your specific case but usually takes 2 to 3 weeks after the abutment is placed.

11. Can dental implants be used to replace multiple missing teeth?

Yes! Dental implants can be used to replace one, several, or even an entire set of missing teeth. In cases where multiple teeth are missing, a few implants may be placed to support a bridge, or full-arch implants can be used to support an entire set of teeth.

12. Are there any risks or complications with dental implants?

While dental implants are generally safe and successful, there are some potential risks, including infection, implant failure, or nerve damage. These complications are rare but can occur if the implant doesn’t properly bond with the bone or if there is an underlying health issue. Your surgeon will carefully assess your health and the condition of your bone before proceeding with the procedure.

13. How do I know if my implant is failing?

Signs of implant failure can include pain, discomfort, or instability in the implant. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon promptly. They can assess the implant and determine the best course of action.

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