Dental Implants: Types, Procedure, Costs & Benefits | Top Dental Implant Clinic Dr. Moguel

Juan Chavez
May 8
3 min read

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution to restore your smile and improve oral function. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing stability and preventing bone loss.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:

What Are Dental Implants?
Types of Dental Implants
The Dental Implant Procedure
Benefits of Dental Implants
Potential Risks and Complications
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Aftercare and Maintenance
Alternatives to Dental Implants

1. What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible titanium that fuse with the jawbone. They serve as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures).

Key Components:

Implant Post – The titanium screw inserted into the jawbone.
Abutment – The connector that holds the replacement tooth.
Crown/Bridge/Denture – The visible prosthetic tooth/teeth.

2. Types of Dental Implants

There are three main types:

A. Endosteal Implants

Most common type.
Placed directly into the jawbone.
Ideal for patients with sufficient bone density.

B. Subperiosteal Implants

Placed under the gum but above the jawbone.
Used when bone height is insufficient for endosteal implants.

C. Zygomatic Implants

Anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the jaw.
For patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.

3. The Dental Implant Procedure

The process typically involves multiple stages over several months:

Step 1: Consultation & Planning

Dental exam, X-rays, and 3D scans.
Treatment plan customized to your needs.

Step 2: Tooth Extraction (if needed)

Removal of damaged teeth before implant placement.

Step 3: Bone Grafting (if necessary)

Required if jawbone isn’t thick or strong enough.
Healing may take 3-6 months before implant placement.

Step 4: Implant Placement

The titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone.
Healing (osseointegration) takes 3-6 months.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

A connector is attached to the implant.
Gum healing takes about 2 weeks.

Step 6: Crown Placement

Custom-made crown is fixed onto the abutment.

4. Benefits of Dental Implants

✅ Natural Look & Feel – Matches surrounding teeth.✅ Permanent Solution – Lasts decades with proper care.✅ Prevents Bone Loss – Stimulates jawbone like natural roots.✅ Improved Speech & Chewing – No slipping like dentures.✅ No Damage to Adjacent Teeth – Unlike bridges, no need to alter healthy teeth.

5. Potential Risks and Complications

While rare, possible issues include:

Infection at the implant site.
Nerve damage (tingling or numbness).
Sinus problems (upper jaw implants).
Implant failure (if bone doesn’t fuse properly).

Choosing an experienced dentist minimizes these risks.

6. Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates:✔ Have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone.✔ Don’t smoke (or are willing to quit).✔ Are committed to good oral hygiene.✔ Have no uncontrolled chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes).

7. Cost and Insurance Coverage

Single Implant: 1,500–1,500–6,000 (varies by location, materials, and additional procedures like bone grafts).
Insurance: Some plans cover part of the cost, but many consider it cosmetic. Financing options are available.

8. Aftercare and Maintenance

Brush & floss regularly.
Avoid hard/sticky foods initially.
Visit the dentist for check-ups.
No smoking (impairs healing).

9. Alternatives to Dental Implants

Dentures – Removable, affordable, but less stable.
Bridges – Fixed but require altering adjacent teeth.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are a long-term, reliable solution for missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. If you’re considering implants, consult a qualified dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!