Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Am I a candidate for dental implants? +
Most adults with good general health are candidates for dental implants. The key requirements are sufficient jawbone density to support the implant and healthy gum tissue. Patients with bone loss may still qualify after a bone grafting procedure. Conditions like diabetes or a history of smoking can affect healing, but they are not automatic disqualifiers. The best way to determine candidacy is a consultation with a bone scan — we include a Planmeca Cone Beam 3D scan as part of every implant evaluation.
How long does the dental implant process take? +
The timeline varies based on your starting point. For patients who do not need bone grafting, the process from implant placement to final crown typically takes three to six months — the healing phase called osseointegration accounts for most of that time. Patients who need bone grafting beforehand may have a longer total timeline. In select cases where the bone is favorable, same-day tooth replacement allows a temporary crown to be placed the day of surgery.
Do dental implants hurt? +
Implant placement is performed under local anesthesia, so patients do not feel discomfort during the procedure itself. Most patients describe post-operative soreness as milder than they expected — similar to a tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers are typically sufficient for the first few days. Dr. Laudenbach uses a gentle anesthetic technique designed to minimize discomfort from the very first injection.
How long do dental implants last? +
Dental implants are designed to last decades, and many last a lifetime with proper care. The crown attached to the implant may need replacement after 10 to 20 years due to normal wear. Our practice exclusively uses Straumann implants — the global standard backed by over 60 years of clinical research — to ensure the best possible long-term outcomes.
Does insurance cover dental implants? +
Coverage varies by plan. Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of implant costs, particularly the crown restoration, while others classify the procedure as cosmetic and exclude it. Our team reviews your benefits before treatment so there are no surprises. We also offer flexible payment options to help bridge any gap.