Dental implants are now considered the number one choice to replace missing teeth. With nearly a 98% success rate, dental implants in Charleston, SC offer a permanent and secure missing teeth treatment option. There are many benefits of dental implants, including full chewing function, replacing missing teeth at the root, no slipping, and they offer full chewing function. The procedure for dental implants requires multiple visits over several months.
Dentists Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn can use dental implants to replace one missing tooth, several missing teeth, or all of your teeth. Dental implants are capped with a dental restoration that is custom fit to your smile. Dental restorations now use the latest in dental materials for a natural-looking tooth replacement. The entire implant procedure usually takes six to eight months, and most patients don’t experience a disruption to their daily lives.
About the Dental Implant Procedure
During a comprehensive evaluation, Charleston, SC dentists Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will thoroughly evaluate your mouth, teeth, gums, and overall health to make sure dental implants are a good fit for you. A personalized dental implant treatment plan will be created detailing every step of your implant procedure.
Some patients may need to undergo treatments to correct dental concerns before moving on to surgical implantation. The purpose here is to create an environment that is healthy so that your implants can properly heal. For example, a patient that is diagnosed with periodontal disease will need to undergo treatment before their implantation surgery.
We will coordinate the surgical phase of your implant procedure with a local oral surgeon who will perform the implantation of the implants post(s). Our dentists only work with the leading oral surgeons and periodontists in the area. The implants will need about 3-6 months to fully heal and fuse with the surrounding jaw bone. During this time a temporary dental restoration may be placed depending on the location of your missing teeth.
Depending on the type of implant you are receiving, at the second visit, an abutment will be attached to the post. This will serve to secure the final restoration and will need to heal before the final step.
Once the dental implant has healed and integrated with the surrounding bone, an abutment will be placed on the implanted post. This will serve as a foundation for the placement of the prosthetic tooth.
At your next appointment, we will take impressions of your teeth and mouth that will be used to fabricate your dental restoration. At your last appointment, your dentist will place the final restoration in our Charleston dentist office.
If you have only one missing tooth, we will attach the custom dental crown to the single implant. If you have several consecutive missing teeth, we will attach a dental bridge to the two or more implants. If you are missing most or all of your teeth, we will attach your new implant denture.
Dental implants can be cared for just like natural teeth with daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits to ensure oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return to work after implant surgery?
Yes, many patients return to work within one to two days after dental implant surgery, especially if only one implant was placed. If your procedure involved multiple implants or sedation, you might need more time to rest. Mild swelling or soreness is normal but usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Dr. Dickert will give you specific guidance based on the complexity of your case.
Are implant crowns and bridges made to match my natural teeth?
Yes, implant-supported crowns and bridges are color-matched and shaped to blend consistently with your surrounding teeth. The material, typically porcelain or zirconia, is selected for durability and aesthetics. We will carefully select the shade, contour, and size to create a natural, uniform appearance. The goal is to restore function without anyone noticing the difference.
Can dental implants help prevent bone loss in the jaw?
Yes, dental implants help preserve jawbone structure by replacing the missing tooth root. The implant stimulates the bone each time you chew, which helps prevent the bone from shrinking over time. Without a root or implant, the bone in that area naturally begins to break down. Implants are the only tooth replacement option that supports long-term bone health.
Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
You’ll need to treat the gum disease first before getting implants. Healthy gums are essential for the implant to heal properly and stay stable long-term. Once your gum condition is under control, Dr. Dickert can reassess your bone and tissue health. Early treatment increases the chances of successful implant placement.
How do implant-supported dentures compare to traditional dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are more stable and secure than traditional dentures. They attach to implants anchored in your jawbone so they won’t slip, click, or shift during eating or speaking. They also help maintain bone density, unlike traditional dentures, which can accelerate bone loss over time. Many patients find implant dentures more comfortable and natural-feeling overall.