Missing teeth affect more than appearance — they change how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Modern dental implants are designed to replace lost teeth in a way that restores both function and confidence. Whether a single tooth is gone or you’re missing several, implant dentistry gives patients a durable choice that integrates with the jaw rather than relying solely on neighboring teeth or removable appliances.
Implants are now a routine option for many adults seeking a long-term improvement in oral health. Advances in materials, planning tools, and surgical techniques have simplified treatment while increasing success rates. At the office of Edward J. Sharkey, DMD, we focus on matching the right implant approach to each patient’s anatomy and lifestyle so results look natural and perform reliably.
Deciding to pursue implants begins with a clear conversation about goals and expectations. We’ll explain how different implant restorations work, review the steps involved, and outline what a comfortable, informed treatment experience looks like for you. Our aim is to make the process understandable without oversimplifying the important clinical details.
Dental implants are engineered to replace the tooth root, giving a prosthetic tooth support that mimics natural biomechanics. A titanium or titanium-alloy post is placed in the jaw and, when bone integrates around it, the implant becomes a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or denture attachments. This root-level support is the primary reason implants deliver superior chewing stability and comfort compared with removable alternatives.
Because implants transfer biting forces into the bone, they help preserve the underlying bone levels and facial contours that can otherwise shrink after tooth loss. Maintaining that bone structure supports a more youthful jawline and prevents the sunken appearance that sometimes follows long-term denture use. For patients who want both function and a natural appearance, implants bridge the gap between restorative needs and cosmetic goals.
Implant restorations are customizable — from single ceramic crowns that blend with adjacent teeth to full-arch prostheses that recreate a complete dentition. The restorative materials and design choices are guided by aesthetic goals, bite dynamics, and the condition of surrounding tissues so the final result both looks and performs like a natural smile.
An implant-supported replacement typically includes three parts: the implant post (root), an abutment (the connector), and the final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture). Each piece plays a role in stability and appearance: the post integrates with bone, the abutment transfers load and supports the restoration, and the restoration restores form and function. Understanding these building blocks helps patients see why implants require careful planning and precise execution.
The process of osseointegration — the biological bonding between bone and implant surface — is central to long-term success. Modern implant surfaces and surgical protocols promote reliable integration, but maintaining healthy surrounding tissues and using appropriate restorative techniques are equally important. The combination of surgical accuracy and thoughtful prosthetic design is what produces predictable, lasting outcomes.
Dental implants deliver several functional and oral-health benefits compared with traditional bridges or removable dentures. Their root-level support restores chewing efficiency, reduces the risk of adjacent tooth wear, and minimizes the bone loss that commonly follows an extraction. Because they are independent of neighboring teeth, implants often preserve healthy tooth structure that would otherwise need to be altered for a bridge.
Implants are also highly resistant to decay, and with appropriate hygiene they can remain stable for many years. Patients frequently report improved confidence when eating and speaking because implant-supported restorations do not slip or require adhesives. In many situations, implants can support restorations that closely match natural tooth color, shape, and alignment for a discreet, attractive result.
While every treatment plan is individualized, implants are a versatile solution for single-tooth replacements, multi-tooth restorations, and secure denture attachments. Their adaptability makes them a central option in modern restorative dentistry.
Most healthy adults who need tooth replacement are candidates for implants, but individual factors matter. Sufficient bone volume, controlled periodontal health, and a commitment to daily oral hygiene support successful outcomes. During the initial consultation we review medical and dental history, examine the mouth, and use imaging to measure bone dimensions and plan placement precisely.
Certain health conditions or medication histories may require additional evaluation or collaboration with medical providers. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and active periodontal disease can influence healing, so we address these factors during planning and provide guidance on optimizing conditions for implant success. The goal is to create a safe, tailored plan that reflects each patient’s needs and health status.
Implant therapy begins with a comprehensive plan that may include digital imaging and, when appropriate, three-dimensional CBCT scans. Treatment may involve tooth extraction, bone grafting, or soft-tissue procedures before placing an implant. Surgical placement itself is typically performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia and, when desired, options for sedation to enhance comfort.
After placing the implant, there is a healing interval during which osseointegration occurs. Temporary restorations can often be provided to maintain function and aesthetics while the implant integrates. Once stable, a custom abutment and final restoration are fabricated and placed, completing the restoration in a way that blends with the surrounding teeth.
Bone grafting is a common adjunct to implant therapy when the jaw lacks the volume needed to support a post. Grafting rebuilds deficient areas and creates a stable foundation for implants. Materials and techniques vary based on the situation — from socket preservation after extraction to larger ridge augmentation — and are chosen to promote predictable healing and long-term support.
Addressing bone deficiencies before or during implant placement reduces the risk of implant failure and improves aesthetic outcomes, especially in the smile zone. Our approach emphasizes conservative, evidence-based grafting when necessary to set implants up for lasting success.
Successful implant dentistry extends beyond placement; it includes careful restorative design and ongoing maintenance. Routine dental visits, professional cleanings, and effective home care habits are essential to preserve the health of the tissues surrounding implants. We provide patients with practical hygiene instruction and schedule follow-ups that monitor both the restoration and the supporting bone.
We take pride in providing clear communication throughout treatment so patients understand their responsibilities and what to expect at each stage. When patients follow recommended maintenance and address concerns early, implants can remain a stable, functional part of the mouth for many years.
Implant dentistry offers predictable ways to regain comfort, function, and confidence after tooth loss. The right solution depends on your unique anatomy and goals, and planning plays a key role in achieving durable, natural-looking results. Our practice emphasizes careful evaluation, precise surgical technique, and prosthetic expertise to deliver outcomes you can rely on.
If you would like to learn more about implant options or discuss whether implants are right for you, please contact us for more information. We look forward to helping you explore the best path to a complete, healthy smile.
If you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or any other reason, we recommend dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone and mirror the same function as the root of a tooth. The procedure for dental implants is usually performed while a patient is sedated. Patients who undergo IV sedation must have an empty stomach and transportation home following the procedure. Most sedation patients will have little to no memory of the procedure occurring.
Generally, dental implants are made out of a biocompatible metal such as titanium. Biocompatible metals are also used for other common bone implants (such as shoulder, hip, and knee replacements). The visible portion of the implant is usually made out of porcelain and is custom-made to match your existing teeth.
Dental implants are designed to fuse to the bone, which makes them become permanent fixtures. Typically speaking, the success rate is nearly 100%. There are few cases in which the implant will not fuse as intended and must be removed. If this happens to occur, the procedure can be attempted again a few months later.
Dental implants are not usually covered by dental insurance, but may be covered under a patient's medical insurance. Our office and your insurance company can discuss coverage options with you based on your individual case and treatment plan.
It's easy... just take care of an implant as if it's a natural tooth! This involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. If you have any concerns about your implant, contact us immediately.
