Dental Implants
Dental implants are a highly dependable option for replacing missing teeth. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, implants offer a long-lasting solution that both looks and works like your natural teeth.
Dental Implants at Finger Lakes Dental
Dental implants are one of the most effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. Made of strong titanium, they are placed beneath the gumline where the surrounding bone naturally fuses to them over time. This creates a secure, root-like foundation for an artificial tooth, which is later attached using a small connector called an abutment.
Untreated tooth loss can make chewing and speaking difficult and may eventually lead to shifting teeth, bone loss, and changes in facial structure. Dental implants help prevent these long-term issues by providing stability and preserving jawbone health. Finger Lakes Dental offers dental implants at our Henrietta, Canandaigua, Naples, Victor, and Palmyra locations. Use the button below to schedule your consultation.
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What is the procedure for dental implants?
The dental implant procedure typically takes place in a few structured steps. First, your dentist evaluates your mouth with an exam and imaging to determine whether you’re a good candidate. During the surgical phase, a small titanium post is placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth’s root once was. Over the next few months, the bone naturally fuses to the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation.
Once the implant has fully integrated, an abutment—a small connector—is attached to the top of the implant. Finally, a custom-made crown is placed on the abutment to complete your restoration. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a natural one.
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How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution and can often last a lifetime with proper care. The titanium implant post fuses securely with the jawbone, making it extremely durable. While the implant itself is very long lasting, the crown attached to it may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear. Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits like smoking help ensure your implant stays healthy for many years.
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Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
A good candidate for dental implants is someone with healthy gums and enough jawbone density to support the implant. You should be in generally good health, free from uncontrolled conditions—like advanced diabetes or severe gum disease—that could interfere with healing. Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking during the implant process also tend to have better outcomes, as smoking can slow healing and affect implant stability.
Candidates should also have good oral hygiene habits and a commitment to regular dental visits, since long-term implant success depends on proper care. If bone loss is present, you may still qualify with additional procedures such as bone grafting. Your dentist can evaluate your specific situation and determine whether implants are the right option for you.
More questions about dental implants?
If you have additional questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please reach out to our office and we’ll be happy to help.