If you’re thinking about replacing missing teeth, this guide will help you decide whether dental impants are right for you. Dental impants are artificial tooth roots placed in the jaw to hold crowns, bridges, or full-arch teeth. This post explains who commonly gets dental impants, the benefits and risks, what the process looks like, and the cost and provider factors to consider.
You’ll get clear next steps you can take after reading, including how to prepare for a consult and what questions to ask your implant team.
Who is a good candidate for dental impants?
General health and age
Good candidates are generally healthy enough to heal after minor surgery. That means no uncontrolled medical conditions. Controlled conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes often still allow treatment if your provider approves. Age is less important than overall health — many older adults do very well with dental impants.
Jawbone and oral health
Dental impants need enough jawbone to hold them. If bone is thin or missing, bone grafting or S.M.A.R.T.™ bone grafting can rebuild it. Healthy gums are also important; active gum disease should be treated before implants are placed. Your dentist will use X-rays or a CBCT scan to check bone and plan treatment.
Habits and medical factors
Some habits and medicines affect candidacy. Smoking lowers success rates and slows healing — quitting before and after surgery is strongly recommended. Certain medicines, like some osteoporosis drugs, and uncontrolled diabetes raise the risk of complications. Bring a full list of medications to your consult so your team can advise you.
What to expect during the dental impants process
Consultation and imaging
Your first visit includes an exam and images such as X-rays or a cone beam CT (CBCT). The CBCT gives a 3D view of bone, nerves, and sinuses. Digital scans and software are used to create a treatment plan and surgical guide. You’ll discuss options, estimated cost, and sedation choices.
Surgery and placement
Implant placement is usually done with local anesthesia and optional sedation. The dentist places titanium or zirconia posts into the jaw. Guided implant surgery can improve precision and reduce time. After placement you’ll receive instructions for immediate care: soft food, oral hygiene, and follow-up visits.
Healing and final restoration
Over weeks to months, the implant fuses with bone in a process called osseointegration. Temporary teeth may be placed right away in many cases. Once healed, your permanent crown, bridge, or full-arch prosthesis is attached. You’ll have periodic checkups to ensure the restoration fits and functions well.
Benefits, risks, and alternatives to dental impants
Main benefits
- Long-term stability and improved chewing function
- Helps preserve jawbone and facial structure
- Natural appearance and comfort compared with removable dentures
- Often easier care than bridges that require altering nearby teeth
Potential risks and complications
Risks include infection, implant failure, and nerve or sinus irritation. Most risks are low when treatment is planned with proper imaging and performed by experienced clinicians. Following instructions for care and attending follow-ups reduces complications.
Alternatives
Alternatives include fixed bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures. Bridges are faster and less expensive for single missing teeth but require altering adjacent teeth. Partials and full dentures cost less upfront but may not preserve bone and often need adjustments over time. Your lifestyle, budget, and oral health will guide the best choice.
Cost, insurance, and choosing the right provider for dental impants
Cost factors and payment options
Cost depends on the number of implants, grafting, type of restoration, and technology used. Advanced imaging and guided surgery add to precision but can raise costs. Many practices offer financing, payment plans, or third-party medical credit to make treatment more affordable.
Insurance and what to expect
Dental insurance may cover part of the crown or certain procedures, but implant surgery is often limited or excluded. Check benefits early and request a pre-treatment estimate. A good office can help verify coverage and submit claims on your behalf.
Picking a provider and next steps
Choose a team with surgical and restorative expertise, digital planning tools, and clear treatment plans. Advanced Implant Dentistry & Oral Restoration combines prosthodontic and surgical experience with in-house digital technology. Founders Dr. Michael Klein and Dr. Allon Waltuch bring decades of implant training and computer-guided workflows that improve predictability. Their practice offers CBCT imaging, guided implant surgery, same-day temporary teeth, S.M.A.R.T.™ grafting, and an in-house lab for fast, precise restorations.
If you’re considering dental impants, schedule a personalized implant assessment to review images, options, and a written plan. Ask about experience with your specific case, technology used, recovery expectations, and payment options. A consult gives you the information to make a confident decision about restoring your smile.
