RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
Dental Implants
An implant replaces the root, not just the tooth — which is what makes it different from every other replacement option. Preserving the bone in the area, leaving adjacent teeth untouched, and providing a restoration that functions like a natural tooth are outcomes that no bridge or removable appliance can fully replicate. Dr. Martin plans implant therapy using digital imaging to evaluate bone volume and quality at the site before recommending a path forward.
The process has three phases: surgical placement of the titanium post, a healing period of three to six months while the implant integrates with the jaw bone, and the restorative phase where the ceramic crown is fabricated and attached. Where bone volume is insufficient, grafting may be needed first. Candidacy depends on overall health, smoking history, medications, and whether any active gum disease is present — all of which affect how well the implant integrates and holds over time. With proper maintenance, the implant itself is designed to be permanent.
Am I a good candidate for a dental implant?
Most adults in reasonable health are candidates, but a thorough evaluation is necessary before moving forward. Adequate bone volume at the implant site is one of the primary factors — if significant bone loss has occurred since the tooth was lost, bone grafting may be needed before or alongside implant placement. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, active gum disease, or certain medications can affect healing and implant integration. Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure and is something we discuss candidly with patients. At our practice, we complete a comprehensive pre-implant assessment — including imaging to evaluate bone quantity and quality — before recommending a treatment plan.
What is a dental implant, and how does the process work?
A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jaw bone to serve as an artificial tooth root — onto which a custom ceramic crown is attached once the implant has integrated with the surrounding bone. The process involves a surgical placement phase, a healing period during which the implant fuses with the bone (typically three to six months), and then the restorative phase in which the visible crown is fabricated and attached. At our practice, implant therapy is planned digitally and with careful attention to bone structure, occlusion, and the long-term bite harmony of the final restoration — because an implant placed without that level of planning is more likely to create problems over time.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are the closest thing to a permanent tooth replacement option currently available — with proper care and maintenance, the implant fixture itself can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant may need replacement after fifteen to twenty-five years, similar to other dental restorations, depending on wear and maintenance. The key to long-term implant success is consistent oral hygiene, regular professional maintenance, and protecting the implant from excessive bite forces — particularly if clenching or grinding is a concern. At our practice, we monitor implants at every visit and address any signs of stress or peri-implant tissue changes before they become significant problems.
Is the implant procedure painful, and what does recovery involve?
Implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure itself is typically more comfortable than patients anticipate. Post-surgical discomfort — swelling, soreness, and mild bruising — is expected for three to five days following placement and is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication in most cases. More complex cases involving bone grafting may involve a longer or more involved recovery. At our practice, we go through post-surgical care instructions in detail before the appointment and are accessible to patients during the healing period. Most patients find the recovery more straightforward than they expected — and for many, it's significantly less uncomfortable than having the original tooth extracted.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.