Dental implants
Missing a tooth? A dental implant replaces it from root to crown,
helping you chew, smile, and speak with confidence again.
How the dental implant process works
Dental implants are a permanent way to restore missing teeth. The process takes time, but the results look and feel natural. Here’s what to expect.
Full
evaluation
Your dentist will examine your teeth and jaw, using X-rays to assess bone health and create a personalized treatment plan.
Bone restoration
(if needed)
If the jawbone isn’t strong enough to support an implant, your dentist may recommend bone restoration to build support.
Placing the
implant
The area is numbed, and a small titanium post is placed in the jaw. A temporary crown is added to protect the area while it heals.
Healing and
integration
Over the next 3-6 months, the jawbone naturally fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration.
Custom crown
placement
Once healed, a custom crown is attached to the implant. It’s designed to look and function like a natural tooth.
Need a tooth removed before getting an implant?
If your tooth is too damaged to save, an extraction may be the first step before getting a dental implant. Our team will guide you through every step.
Flexible payment options for everyone
We accept most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and Medicaid, and offer financing options to fit your budget. Whether you’re insured or not, we’ll help find a solution that works for you.
Hear what’s making our patients smile
I was nervous about my root canal, but the team at Western Dental was kind and calming. The procedure was pretty painless, and I feel at ease returning for my next appointment.
Gloria helped transfer my DHMO plan and book fast care for me and my son. The dentist explained everything clearly, and we even got a free orthodontic consultation.
I was so embarrassed to smile before. Rochelle at Western Dental gave me my confidence back. The staff is friendly and made every visit feel comfortable. Thank you!
Dental implants FAQs
An implant is the only option that replaces the tooth root, not just the visible part of the tooth. The titanium post bonds with your jawbone to help prevent bone loss and preserve your facial structure. Unlike bridges and dentures, which may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, implants are designed to last a lifetime. They also don’t rely on or stress neighboring teeth, and they provide the strength and stability of a natural tooth for chewing and speaking.
Dental implants are often recommended for patients with one or more missing teeth. They offer a natural-looking and longer-lasting alternative to bridges, crowns, or removable dentures.
A dental implant has three parts: a small titanium post placed in your jaw, a connector piece called an abutment, and a custom crown. The post fuses with your jawbone, the abutment attaches to the post, and the crown fits on top to create a strong, natural-looking replacement tooth.
Getting an implant takes several months, including time for healing and bone integration. The full process can take up to six months or more, but the result is a permanent tooth replacement.
If your jawbone is too weak to support an implant, your dentist may recommend bone restoration to rebuild support. This step adds time to the process but helps ensure long-term success.