Dental Implant Services

The consultation is a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s oral health, jawbone density, and overall candidacy for implants. Dr. Nelson will review medical history, take digital X-rays, and in most cases perform a 3D cone beam CT scan to assess bone volume and identify the precise placement site. Patients leave the consultation with a clear understanding of the recommended treatment plan, the expected timeline, and all associated costs before any commitment is made.

Most adults in great general health who have one or more missing teeth are candidates for implants. Key factors include adequate jawbone volume to support the implant post, healthy gum tissue, and no uncontrolled systemic conditions that could interfere with healing. Patients who smoke or have conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes may face additional considerations. For patients who lack sufficient bone, bone grafting can often make implant placement possible. Dr. Nelson will assess candidacy thoroughly during the consultation.

Bone grafting is a procedure that builds up the jawbone in areas where density or volume has been lost, typically due to tooth extraction, gum disease, or prolonged tooth absence. Without adequate bone, an implant post cannot integrate properly. Up to 60% of patients require some degree of grafting before implant placement can proceed. The graft material, which may come from the patient or a processed donor source, fuses with the existing bone over several months before implant surgery takes place. Dr. Nelson will identify whether grafting is needed during the 3D imaging evaluation.

A single-tooth implant replaces one missing tooth with an individual implant post and a custom crown. Multiple teeth implants use a series of implant posts to replace several missing teeth across an arch, often supporting a bridge rather than one crown per tooth. Full-arch replacement, sometimes called All-on-4 or All-on-X, uses four to six strategically placed implants to support a complete set of fixed teeth for patients who have lost an entire arch. Dr. Nelson will recommend the appropriate option based on the number of missing teeth, bone availability, and the patient’s goals.

The healing period following implant surgery typically spans three to six months, during which the implant post fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Dr. Nelson’s team provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules follow-up visits to monitor healing progress. Once the implant has fully integrated, the final restoration is placed and the patient transitions into a standard maintenance schedule. Long-term care for implants mirrors natural tooth care: brushing, flossing, and twice-yearly professional cleanings are essential for protecting the surrounding gum tissue and ensuring the implant lasts.

Yes. Dr. Nelson’s team understands that implant-related issues such as a loose crown, a fractured restoration, or discomfort at the implant site can be urgent and distressing. The practice accommodates emergency appointments for existing implant patients and works to address problems promptly to protect the underlying implant and prevent further complications.

Implant costs vary based on the number of implants, whether bone grafting is required, and the type of restoration used. Single-tooth implants are generally the most straightforward investment, while full-arch replacements involve more extensive planning, surgery, and lab work. Dental insurance coverage for implants is improving but varies significantly by plan. The practice accepts most major PPO insurance plans and offers CareCredit financing for patients who prefer to spread costs over time. A complete, itemized estimate is provided before any treatment begins so patients can make fully informed decisions.