Service Guide
Service Guide
Once the implant has integrated, a custom crown is placed on top to complete the restoration. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like the real thing. It doesn’t shift when you eat. It doesn’t require adhesives. And because it’s anchored in the bone, it helps preserve the jaw structure that typically deteriorates after tooth loss.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Implants
Most adults in reasonable health with sufficient jawbone density are candidates for dental implants. A few factors that typically come into consideration:
- Adequate bone volume to support the implant post
- Healthy gum tissue without active periodontal disease
- No uncontrolled systemic conditions that affect healing
- Non-smokers or patients willing to discuss smoking habits, since smoking can affect healing
If bone loss has already occurred, bone grafting may be an option to rebuild the foundation before implant placement. We assess each patient individually and give you a clear picture of what’s possible before any treatment begins.
Dental Implants in Medford: What the Process Looks Like
The implant process happens in stages, and the timeline varies depending on your situation. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
Consultation and planning: We start with a thorough exam, including imaging, to evaluate your bone structure and map the exact placement of the implant.
Implant placement: The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia, and most patients find it more manageable than they expected.
Healing period: Over the next several months, the implant fuses with the bone. This stage takes time, but it’s what gives the implant its durability.
Implant restoration: Once healing is complete, we place the final crown on top of the implant. At Highland Dental, we handle implant restorations in-house, which means the crown is crafted and fitted right here in our Medford office.
The whole process does require patience, but patients consistently say the outcome is worth the wait.
Implant Restorations at Highland Dental
Not every dental office handles the restoration side of implants. At Highland Dental, we do. Once your implant has healed and integrated, our team takes over to design and place the crown that completes your tooth. Dr. Ayinkeran Gunarajasingam, Dr. Paul Shteynberg, Dr. Nelly Shteynberg, and Dr. Nathan Faynzilberg work with each patient to make sure the final restoration fits well, blends naturally with surrounding teeth, and holds up to everyday use.
A well-made crown matters. It affects how the implant feels when you bite, how easy it is to keep clean, and how natural it looks in your smile. We take the time to get those details right.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth at All
It’s a fair question, especially if the missing tooth isn’t visible. But leaving a gap in your mouth sets off a chain of changes that compound over time. The teeth on either side of the gap tend to drift. The tooth above or below it may begin to shift downward or upward into the empty space. And without a tooth root to stimulate the jawbone, the bone in that area gradually resorbs, which can change the shape of your face over the years.
Dental implants are one of the few tooth replacement options that address bone loss directly because the titanium post functions like a root and keeps the bone stimulated.
How Implants Compare to Other Options
Bridges and dentures have their place, but implants offer a few distinct advantages worth considering:
- Implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support, so healthy teeth aren’t altered.
- They’re easier to clean than bridges, which require special flossing tools.
- They’re more stable than dentures and don’t need to be removed for cleaning.
- With proper care, implants are designed for long-term function.
The upfront investment is higher than other options, but the long-term cost tends to be lower when you factor in replacements, adjustments, and maintenance.
Make an Informed Decision About Your Teeth
Missing teeth don’t have to be permanent. Dental implants in Medford at Highland Dental offer a reliable, natural-looking option designed for long-term use with the right care.
If you’ve been curious about whether implants are right for you, the best place to start is a conversation with our team. Call Highland Dental or book online to schedule your exam, and we’ll walk you through exactly what the process would look like for your specific situation.
