Dental Implants
If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, it can lead to oral health problems and issues with the appearance of your smile.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that can support crowns, bridges, or dentures. They're a versatile tooth replacement option.
Learn how the Center for Esthetic Dentistry uses implants to help patients in New Haven, CT, who've experienced tooth loss.
How Dental Implants Work
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root surgically anchored in a person's jawbone. The implant is typically made from a biocompatible material, such as titanium. After surgery, the implant fuses with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. Once an abutment is attached to the implant, it can support a custom restoration.
Dr. N. Summer Lerch can use dental implants to treat people missing one tooth or all of their teeth. When placing implants, the Center for Esthetic Dentistry works with Dr. Brian Evans, a skilled prosthodontist known throughout New Haven and Hamden, CT, for his work as an implant specialist.
Implant Restoration Options
Dental implants can support different kinds of restorations depending on how many teeth need to be replaced.
For people missing a single tooth, a dental implant can be placed to support a crown. The implant is placed directly into the tooth gap.
For patients missing multiple teeth, a dental bridge may be the right option. One or more implants can be used to help support the custom bridge.
A full set of dentures supported by implants is an option for those missing all of their teeth. Partial dentures are good for people missing many teeth.
Good Candidates for Dental Implants
Sufficient Jawbone Structure
Given the nature of dental implant surgery, it's important that patients have enough healthy jawbone structure. This ensures the implants are stable and the dental procedure will be successful.
Healthy Gums
Good dental health is crucial before starting the dental implant process. That means you should have no issues with gum disease or gum recession. Healthy gums help protect and support the implant.
Good Overall Health
In addition to being in good dental health, patients should be healthy enough to undergo oral surgery. We can review your medical history and any wellness issues during the consultation process.
Are Dental Implants Right for Me? Contact the Center for Esthetic Dentistry
Missing teeth? Implant dentistry may be the answer you've been waiting for. The custom implant restorations are created to resemble natural teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and smile with restored confidence.
Dr. N. Summer Lerch can create a custom solution just for you, whether you require a full-arch restoration or an individual tooth replacement. As the first board-accredited cosmetic dentist in New England, she focuses on developing long-term dental solutions with beautiful results.
For more information about dental implants, contact the Center for Esthetic Dentistry online. You can also reach our dental office in New Haven, CT, by phone.
Call Our Dental Practice
(203) 624-5256
A Patient Shares Their Success Story A Review From New Haven, CT
"Dr. Lerch and Sheri have given me so much confidence by fixing my dental crowns. I had dental implants put in 5 years ago right next to my two front teeth. The crowns never looked right - they were short and gray. They stood out to the point where people actually commented on it and asked me about it. I found myself trying to smile with a lower top lip to hide them. My referring dentist tried to fix them, and two gum grafts and two NEW sets of crowns later they looked exactly the same. That's when he sent me to Dr. Lerch, and I'm so glad he did. I never thought I'd be able smile normally again. Dr. Lerch worked a miracle on my teeth. The whole staff is amazing and worked with my challenging schedule to get my teeth done. I couldn't be happier!"
Jessica Everett, 2021, 5-Star Review
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant process can take several months to a year to complete.
Some patients may need to undergo additional procedures before they are suitable candidates for dental implants. This can add months to the overall treatment time.
Preliminary Treatments
Tooth Extraction
One tooth or multiple teeth may need to be removed before getting implants. Tooth extraction prevents oral health issues during treatment and gives the dental implants sufficient room when necessary.
Bone Grafting
A missing tooth often leads to bone loss due to the lack of root structure. If this affects jawbone density, a bone graft may be needed to restore bone structure. A sinus lift can also be performed; this bone grafting procedure is performed when a patient needs upper implants to replace premolars and molars.
Gum Grafting
For patients who've experienced periodontal disease or gum recession after tooth loss, soft tissue augmentation may be necessary before starting a dental implant procedure.
The Cost of Dental Implants
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Individual dental implants can cost $3,000-4,000, while the implant restoration can cost $2,500-3,500. The total price of treatment varies by patient, which is why it's important to visit our New Haven practice for a consultation. The Center for Esthetic Dentistry offers affordable dental financing to put treatment within reach.
Count On a Board-Accredited Dentist Reviews From New Haven, CT
Kathryn Damato
2021
My appointment today with Yuan (RDH) and Dr Lerch was absolutely amazing. The care was so comprehensive and extraordinary, an experience like today was truly remarkable.
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Amy Smith
2021
Dr. Lerch and her team are fantastic! I’ve had some less than ideal experiences with dentists over the years but this office is top notch! They are empathetic and sensitive to meeting patients needs and I trust their work wholeheartedly!
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