There are several efficient methods for replacing lost teeth, so it’s crucial to weigh your options before choosing the one that will work best for you. One of those choices is a dental implant restoration. It offers a long-term solution to your missing tooth and has several advantages over other restorative treatments. Our dentists, Dr. Dean Woodall, Dr. John McNeill, and Dr. Johnny McNeill, tell you everything you need to know about implant restoration in Raleigh, NC, drawing on their combined decades of restorative dentistry experience.
What is a Dental Implant Restoration?
A dental implant restoration is a tooth replacement method that can get you closest to the appearance and functionality of natural teeth. This restoration includes an implant, an abutment, and an artificial tooth (restoration).
The implant is a screw made from titanium or zirconia that will be attached to your jawbone and act as the root of the artificial tooth. An abutment is the connecting material fastened to the implant and firmly holds the restoration. Lastly, the restoration can be a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture, depending on how many teeth are being replaced. It is made from modern porcelain material that looks like your natural teeth.
How the Implant Treatment Works
Woodall & McNeill offers implant restoration in Raleigh, NC, backed by advanced imaging technology and our doctors’ ongoing continuing education in modern implant techniques. If you are interested in the procedure, setting up a consultation is the first step. The dentist may take an X-ray or CT Scan (3D Imaging) of your mouth to check your jawbone condition. If there is significant bone loss, you might need a bone grafting procedure before implantation.
When your jawbone is ready for treatment, the implant will be inserted into it. The implant may take three to six months to heal and merge with the jawbone. Temporary teeth in the form of a bridge or detachable device can be used to conceal the gap while it heals.
After two weeks, you will have a follow-up appointment with your dentist to make sure that the gums are healing well. Once your mouth heals, the abutment and restoration are affixed to the implant.
Benefits of Implant Restoration
An implant restoration is perhaps the best option to solve the problems associated with tooth gaps. Here are its complete benefits:
- A permanent solution for a lost tooth
- Natural appearance
- Firm and durable
- Bring back chewing function
- Incredibly long life
- Does not harm neighboring teeth
- Very high success rate
Restore Your Smile with Precision in Raleigh
If you have good oral health and excellent medical condition, then you can undergo this restorative procedure should you decide to permanently replace a tooth. You can speak to our dental implants provider at Woodall & McNeill about implant restoration in Raleigh, NC, so you’ll know what to expect during the surgery.
Whether you live near Cary, Wake Forest, or downtown Raleigh, our Fairview Road office is a convenient stop for restoring your dental implants.
FAQs About Dental Implant Restoration in Raleigh, NC
Where can I find a dental implant provider in Raleigh, NC?
Woodall & McNeill, located at 2020 Fairview Rd in Raleigh, NC, provides dental implant services with Dr. Dean Woodall, Dr. John McNeill, and Dr. Johnny McNeill. A consultation at the practice can determine if implants are the right option for you. The dental practice is just minutes from downtown Raleigh, making it easy to schedule implant restoration appointments no matter where in the city you live.
What's the difference between dental implants, bridges, and dentures?
These three options all replace missing teeth, but they work in different ways.
- Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, which fuse with the bone and support a custom crown, bridge, or denture. They’re the only option that also stimulates and preserves the jawbone.
- Bridges replace one or more missing teeth by attaching an artificial tooth to the nearby natural teeth, which are usually covered with crowns for support. Bridges do not require surgery, but they do involve changing the neighboring teeth.
- Dentures are removable appliances, either full or partial, that replace several or all missing teeth. They are the least invasive and usually the most affordable option at first, but they rest on the gums instead of being attached to the jaw.
Implants tend to last the longest and best preserve jawbone health, while bridges and dentures are less invasive but may need repair or replacement every 5 to 10 years.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most good candidates have healthy gums, enough jawbone to support the implant, and are healthy enough to heal well after surgery. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease, or smoking can make healing harder, but they do not always rule you out. The best way to know for sure is to have a consultation, which often includes a 3D scan.
Can I get implants if I've been missing teeth for years?
In many cases, yes, though the length of time a tooth has been missing can affect the amount of jawbone available, since bone tends to shrink over time without a tooth root to stimulate it. If bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be needed before or during implant placement to create a stable foundation. This is something your dentist can evaluate with an exam and imaging.
What are the signs of a failing implant?
Watch for warning signs like pain that gets worse, ongoing swelling or redness around the implant, bleeding when brushing or flossing, a loose or shifting implant, gums pulling away from the implant, or a bite that suddenly feels off. Some people also notice a lasting bad taste or smell, which could mean infection. If you notice any of these, contact your dentist right away. Catching problems early gives you the best chance to save the implant.
How much does a dental implant cost in Raleigh, NC?
The cost depends on things like how many implants you need, if you need a bone graft or a tooth pulled, and what kind of restoration goes on top. A single implant usually costs a few thousand dollars, but prices in Raleigh can vary by office. Since every case is different, the best way to get a clear estimate is to schedule a consultation.
Does insurance cover dental implants in Raleigh, NC?
Coverage varies significantly by plan. Some dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, others cover very little, and some don’t cover implants at all, since they can be classified differently than more traditional replacements like dentures or bridges. It’s worth checking with your insurance provider directly, and financing options are typically available to help manage costs not covered by your policy.
Located in Five Points and North Hills, Woodall & McNeill offers implant restoration in Raleigh, NC, to help restore your smile. As members of the American Dental Association and North Carolina Dental Society, our doctors stay current on the latest advances in implant technology and technique. Call us to book your appointment or inquire about dental implant restoration.