Dental implants @ St Marys Dental

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A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium, that is placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.

Most healthy adults with sufficient jawbone density are candidates. Your dentist will assess your oral health, bone structure, and overall health before recommending implants.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should feel minimal pain during surgery. Some discomfort or swelling may occur afterward, but it’s usually manageable with painkillers.

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last 20 years or more—often a lifetime.

The full process can take 3–6 months, depending on healing and whether additional procedures like bone grafting are needed.

Dental implants have a high success rate, generally 95–98%, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options.

Costs vary depending on the number of implants, materials used, and any extra procedures required. Your dentist will provide a personalized quote.

People with certain conditions (uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or severe bone loss) may not be suitable. Each case is assessed individually.

Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. Full healing and osseointegration (bone fusing with the implant) take a few months.

Yes, implants are more stable, preserve bone, and function like natural teeth. Dentures or bridges may wear down adjacent teeth and can feel less secure.

Brush and floss daily, maintain regular dental check-ups, and avoid chewing excessively hard foods on the implant until fully healed.

Failure is rare but can happen due to infection, insufficient bone, or excessive stress on the implant. Early detection and proper care reduce risks.

Yes, modern implants and crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.

Yes, but delayed replacement may require bone grafting to ensure sufficient support for the implant.