Missing a tooth or multiple teeth can impact your confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re struggling with the discomfort of dentures or are looking for a more permanent solution for a missing tooth, dental implants might be the answer. At Meridian, we have specialists performing implant dentistry, using advanced technology to ensure you receive the best care and long-lasting results.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small, titanium, biocompatible tooth replacements that are positioned into the mouth to act as the roots of missing teeth. They provide a stable foundation for a custom-made corwn, bridge, or denture, offering a natural look an feel that mimics real teeth.
Unlike dentures or denal bridges, implants integrate with the bone through a process called osseointegration, ensuring that the implant remains securely in place. This stability makes them an ideal long-term solution for tooth replacement, providing functionality and aesthetics that rival natural teeth.
Dental implant surgery is not just about filling the gap. Denal implants maintain the integrity of the jawbone by stimulating bone growth and preventing the bone deterioration that typically occurs after tooth loss.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
There are numerous reasons why dental implants are a preferred choice for tooth replacement:
1. Durability and Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a sound investment compared to dentures or bridges, which often need replacement or adjustment.
2. Natural Appearance: Implants look and function just like real teeth. They are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, giving you a smile that feels natural.
3. Prevent Bone Loss: One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is their ability to preserve jawbone density. After tooth loss, the jawbone can weaken over time due to lack of stimulation. Implants keep the bone healthy by mimicking the stimulation that natural tooth roots provide.
4. Improved Function: With dental implants, you can speak, eat, and chew just as you would with natural teeth. The stability they offer is unmatched by dentures, which can slip or cause discomfort.
5. Comfort and Stability: Unlike dentures, which sit on top of the gums and can shift or feel uncomfortable, implants are securely embedded. This offers superior stability, and patients often report that they feel as though they have their natural teeth back.
6. Oral Health: Dental implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, unlike dental bridges, which require the modification (cutting tooth structure) of surrounding teeth. This means that the integrity of your natural teeth is preserved, contributing to better oral health.
our Periodontics & implant TEAM
Dr. Lisa Teel
Periodontist & Implant Surgeon
Dr. Charles Stoianovici
Periodontist & Implant Surgeon
Meet Our Team
What to Expect During The Dental Impact Procedure
Understanding the dental implant surgery process can help ease any concerns you may have. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what the procedure involves:
1. Examination and Care Plan Presentation: During your first visit, your dental specialist will assess your oral health and determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. This includes evaluating your jawbone density through 3D imaging (CBCT) and x-rays. If you have insufficient bone, routine procedures like bone grafting or a sinus lift may be recommended to prepare the area for the implant. You will be provided with a care plan that is specific to you, detailing the steps and cost of implant dentistry.
2. Implant Surgery: Your specialist will insert the titanium tooth replacement in a minor implant surgery. This process is usually performed under local anesthesia, ensuring a pain-free experience. Some patients opt to be sedated with either oral sedation (sleep dentistry) or IV sedation.
3. Healing and Osseointegration: After the implant is placed, the osseointegration process begins. Over the next few months, the bone will fuse with the implant, creating a strong and secure foundation. This healing period typically lasts 3 to 6 months, though the timeline may vary depending on your unique healing process. During this healing period, you may be fitted with a temporary prothetic to maintain aesthetics and function. We monitor and then check the stability of the implant prior to the final step.
4. Final Restoration: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, a custom-made crown or prothetic tooth is attached to the implant post, completing the process. This step is done with your family dentist. The result is a restored smile that functions and feels like your natural teeth.
At Meridian, we use advanced technology (digital impressions, 3D scans, lab printed surgical guides) to ensure precise implant placement, reducing recovery time and enhancing patient comfort.
Addressing Common Concerns Related to Dental Implants
Cost of Dental Implants
One of the most common concerns patients have is the cost of dental implants. While dental implants are an investment, they provide significant long-term value.
The cost of a single dental implant in the U.S. typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, though this can vary depending on factors such as:
- The number of implants needed
- Whether additional procedures, such as bone grafts or sinus lifts are required
- The type of implant and final restoration used
With the addition of the final restoration at your family dentitst, the overall cost is about the same as other options and can offer a long-term, durable solution that saves money in the long run. Dental implants help prevent costly future issues, such as bone loss and the shifting of adjacent teeth. Meridian offers financing options to help make implants accessible to all patients. We recommend speaking with your dental benefit provider as well, as some plans may cover part of the procedure.
Dental Implants Pain Management
The surgery itself is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during this procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling post-surgery, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Dental Implants Recovery Time
The recovery period varies from patient to patient, but most people can return to work within a day or two after the implant surgery. Full healling (osseointegration) can tak several months, but your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing. During recovery, it’s essential to avoid hard or crunchy foods, practice excellent oral hygiene, and attend follow-up appointments.
Longevity of Dental Implants
With proper care, dental implants are a long-term solution that can last a lifetime. The key to implant longevity is maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental check-ups. Dental implants have a success rate of over 96% making them one of the most reliable dental treatments available today.
Dental Implants vs Other Tooth Replacement Options
Comparing dental implants with dentures and dental bridges highlights their superiority in many areas.
Dental Implants vs Dentures
While dentures are a more affordable solution, they can be uncomfortable, require frequent adjustments, and do not prevent bone loss. Over time, ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation, sores, and even changes in facial structure as the underlying bone continues to shrink.
Dental Implants vs Bridges
Bridges are a fixed, non-moveable solution, but require the alteration (cutting tooth material) of adjacent teeth for support. Over time, these modified teeth can weaken or become more prone to decay.
Dental implants are standalone solutions that do not compromise neighboring teeth, and help preserve the bone. They offer unparalleled stability and functionality, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
Who is a Candidate For Dental Implants?
Ideal candidates for dental implants generally have:
- Good oral and overall health
- Sufficient jawbone density to support the implant
- Healthy gums, free from severe periodontal disease
For those with insufficient bone density, or existing periodontal disease, procedures like bone grafting can make implant surgery possible. Consult with our experienced team at Meridian to determine whether dental implants are right for you. Most patients are candidates for dental implant surgery.
Dental Implants Recovery and Aftercare
After implant surgery, the recovery process is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of the implant.
- Avoid hard or crunch foods for the first few weeks post-surgery
- Practice excellent oral hygiene to prevent infection, including brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Follow up regularly with us at post operative visits to monitor the healing process
If you experience any excessive pain, swelling, or signs of infection, contact us immediately.
FAQs About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
Will I need a bone graft before getting an implant?
This depends on the density of your jawbone, which will be assessed during your examination.
Is the dental implants procedure painful?
The procedure itself is painless due to local anesthesia, and any post-surgery discomfort can be managed with medication.
What’s the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a long-term success rate of over 96%.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Care for them as you would your natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
Why Choose Meridian For Your Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a permanent, natural looking solution for missing teeth, providing a host of benefits that other tooth replacement options simply can’t match. At Meridian, our highly trained team of specialists use state-of-the-art technology, including 3D imaging and guided implant placement, to ensure precision and patient comfort, and the best possible results. Our patients trust us for our experience, commitment to excellence, and compassionate care. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, dental implants can transform your smile and improve your overall quality of life.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Contact Meridian today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile with dental implants.
Call us at (262) 327-6063 or book online.
Patient Testimonials
Marie W
Wish there were ten stars to give this awesome practice! In April I completed my dental implant journey. From the moment I walked into the reception area and all the way through I was made to feel special. Dr. Lisa Teel and Team kept me informed and comfortable every step of the way. I’ve been very blessed to have my dental work done by Meridian. I love this place!!!
Sarah B
Just had a fairly extensive procedure with Dr. Teel and couldn’t have been more impressed. The experience was positive from start to finish! Debbie, her assistant, is so kind and reassuring. I’m so thankful to have a truly world-class facility like Meridian right in our backyard. I am originally from the area but took an 8 hour flight to come back here to see Dr. Teel and her team – that’s how great they are! From the calming atmosphere in the reception area, to the clean and modern treatment rooms, to the state-of-the-art technology, this place is just fantastic.
D’Ann W
Dr. Teel and her team are wonderful! I’ve avoided the dentist for 20 plus years out of fear. Had an emergency, an infected tooth, and they were the only ones who would help me, after calling at least half a dozen other places. I’ve been working with them for roughly 2 years now and recently finished my 2nd dental implant with them. They were very patient and caring when I was feeling like a big old scared baby. I’m getting past my dental phobia thanks to their concern and willingness to make me as comfortable as possible and not making me feel silly for being so scared. The entire staff I’ve worked with there are very friendly and professional!
Alex R
Just had an amazing experience at this office. Let’s say I have a complicated dental past due to fear and anxiety, and a few really bad dentists along the way. I’ve got broken and infected teeth and was actually quite embarrassed by my situation. I live in AZ, but was in Milwaukee visiting family, and on a whim, decided to take my sister’s advice to go see the doctor here for an exam. They were kind, open, actually listened to me and I didn’t feel judged. I now feel that my problems are fixable and I am excited about moving forward with treatment to get my smile fixed. Highly recommend.