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.
Reasons You May
Need Dental Implants
You Are Missing Teeth
If you live with a missing tooth or teeth, you may wish to improve your bite and your smile. Many patients find that dental implants offer stable support for their stunning new teeth. Dental implants can support multiple restorations, so we can create a treatment that is best suited for your teeth.
You Have Broken or Damaged Teeth
Sometimes a broken or damaged tooth cannot be restored through dental bonding or crowns. This is especially common when a tooth is compromised and needs to be extracted. Dental implants can support a variety of versatile restorations, like a single crown or a bridge.
You Have Deeply Decayed Teeth
While Dr. N. Summer Lerch and our New Haven team will do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth, sometimes decay is so advanced that we may not be able to save your tooth. The good news is that extraction can stop your pain and implants can give you a gorgeous new smile.
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.
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
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
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant process can take several months to a year to complete.
Choose a Highly-Qualified Dental Team The Center for Esthetic Dentistry Can't Wait to Help You
When was the last time you felt proud of your smile?
For patients with missing or decayed teeth, that answer may be far in the past. However, you've found a dentist who can help.
As the first female board-accredited cosmetic dentist in New England, Dr. N. Summer Lerch is no stranger to innovation. She believes in giving her patients beautiful and functional smiles that make them feel happy and confident again. Her team shares that passion, empowering patients to love their stunning, healthy smiles.
To learn more about the difference that we can make with dental implants, contact our New Haven office or call:
(203) 624-5256
"This office has changed my life for the better." Why New Haven, CT, Patients Trust Our Team
Stacey Bonet
2022
This office has changed my life for the better. I've been a patient for over 10 years now and my teeth and gums are cleaner and healthier then they have ever been. Somehow they make me better and healthier with every appointment.
View on GoogleKATHLEEN MILTON
2022
I sat up in the chair again yesterday and cried tears of joy for the amazing work Dr. Lerch did on my two front teeth. One was cracked; one was chipped. They look better than they ever did, and all the work was covered by insurance. She is an artist, and visiting this cozy and loving practice is always a great experience.
View on GoogleHow Long Do Implants Last?
Generally, your dental implants should last a lifetime. You will eventually need to replace your implant restoration, however.
For example, dental crowns can survive up to 15 years, and bridges can last up to 10 years. Proper oral hygiene and dental care will influence the longevity of your implants and restorations.
At our New Haven office, we are happy to review proper oral hygiene techniques for your implants, restorations, and surrounding teeth. We will help you have a healthy, beautiful smile each and every day.
Dental Implant Patients See High Success Rates Some Peace of Mind If You're Worried
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.
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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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 from CareCredit® to put treatment within reach.
