Dental Implants in Apex, NC
Advanced Solutions for Missing Teeth
What is an Implant?
A dental implant is a small, titanium root replacement, surgically placed in the upper or lower jawbone. Similar to a tooth’s original root, implants function to provide the foundation for single tooth crowns, multiple tooth bridges, or partial and full dentures.
Implants act and function like normal teeth and prevent movement, or drifting, of adjacent teeth. Chewing on your teeth stimulate the formation of bone and without that stimulation, the bone goes away. Implants, like teeth help maintain bone and prevent bone loss. Gaps can be closed with implants to provide a long-lasting, beautiful option.
Why do I need an Implant?
- Implant to replace a severely damaged tooth or missing tooth. An implant to replace a damaged or missing tooth preserves the most bone and is easier to take care of than a conventional bridge. Teeth are constantly moving to allow for natural wear and proper function. Gaps allow other teeth to drift and move and are the first steps of bite collapse. Implants help stop tooth drifting and bite collapse.
- Bridge Option for a single missing tooth. While a bridge is an option for replacing one or more teeth, adjacent teeth must be crowned to ‘anchor’ the bridge. These anchor teeth may be natural, healthy teeth with no restorations. These teeth will need to be crowned in order to place a bridge. Over time these teeth can be severely damaged. Implants offer a less aggressive option and are lower in cost should the bridge need to be replaced.
- Multiple missing teeth: An implant bridge is a great option to replace multiple missing teeth. This type of bridge is permanently screw or cemented to the implant, therefore it does not need to come out at night like a looser fitting removable partial denture.
- A loose removable partial denture. Partial dentures can be loose, uncomfortable to wear and trap food. A permanent implant placed under the partial denture stabilizes the partial by connecting to underlying bone, providing greater stability, comfort, and function. Again, these implants will preserve underlying bone.
- A loose full denture. Dentures can be uncomfortable due to their loose-fitting nature. Implants placed underneath the denture, firmly connect the denture to the bone. This provides greater support and stability and can improve chewing and speech. Implants preserve the bone underneath the denture.
What should I expect during my single implant procedure?
- First, the dentist determines that a tooth cannot be repaired or that a repair would not last long term.
- When a tooth is extracted / removed, the existing bone dissolves quickly. To prevent this, the dentist may place a bone graft to preserve the bone for the future implant. Early bone grafting is crucial. Late bone grafting can be more unpredictable (i.e. bone will not grow), costly and time consuming.
- Next, a digital impression of your teeth is taken to evaluate the surgical site and to assist in planning. We use a Dental cone beam x-ray (dental CT) to create 3-D models to plan for your new implant.
- Your implant is placed using a surgical guide. The guide allows precise placement and helps avoid critical structures such as nerves and blood vessels.
- After 3 to 4 months of healing, we take the final digital impression to create the abutment and crown/bridge/denture.
The crown/bridge/denture is placed in the next 1 to 2 weeks
What are my options for missing teeth?
- Do nothing, this option increases your chances of further tooth, gum and bone loss. Delaying treatment may result in increased cost and time to restore your smile.
- Not everyone is a candidate for an implant. A conventional bridge may be the best option. Please ask Dr Kitzmiller if this is for you.
- Traditional partial or full dentures
- Implants
Why would I choose a dental implant?
- Replaces damaged tooth and root.
- Preserves bone.
- Holds space.
- Most affordable long-term if done early.
- Implants are generally a conservative option that replace the missing tooth / teeth without damaging the teeth next door.
- Restoring the mouth with implants and a dental bridge is accomplished in two phases. The first phase is the surgical placement of the implants. They are left under the gums for several months while the bone attaches to them. After healing, the second phase.
Five-Star Reviews From Happy Clients
FAQs
Got questions? We’ve put together answers to some of the most common things our patients ask—so you’re ready for your visit.
How much do dental implants cost in Apex, NC?
At Apex Dental Group, the cost of a single dental implant typically ranges from $6,000 to $9,000, depending on your specific needs. This includes both the implant placement and the custom crown. We’ll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Are dental implants worth the investment?
Absolutely. Dental implants are designed to last for decades with proper care. They look, feel, and function like your natural teeth—making them a long-term investment in both your oral health and confidence. Many of our Apex patients find that implants help them eat, speak, and smile comfortably again.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The process usually takes a few months from start to finish. After the implant post is placed, the area needs time to heal so the bone can fuse with the implant. Once healed, the crown is attached, completing your new tooth. At Apex Dental Group, we’ll walk you through every step so the process feels smooth and stress-free.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients say that getting an implant is more comfortable than they expected. The procedure is done using local anesthesia, and mild soreness afterward can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Our Apex dental team ensures your comfort throughout the process.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are built to last. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, many implants can last 20 years or longer—and often a lifetime. The best part? There’s no replacement cost at 20 years, making implants a durable and cost-effective option.
Will insurance cover dental implants?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance providers may help with parts of the procedure, like the crown or consultation. Our front office team at Apex Dental Group can help you review your benefits and explore payment options to make treatment manageable.
What makes someone a good candidate for dental implants?
If you have one or more missing teeth and healthy gums, you’re likely a good candidate. Sufficient jawbone density is also important for supporting the implant. During your consultation, our dentist will evaluate your mouth and discuss whether dental implants are right for you.
How do I take care of my dental implants?
Caring for implants is simple—brush and floss just like your natural teeth, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Avoid smoking and maintain good oral hygiene to help your implants last for many years.
What can I eat after getting dental implants?
In the first few days, it’s best to stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, or mashed potatoes to avoid pressure on the implant area. As your mouth heals, you can gradually return to your regular diet. Our Apex Dental Group team will give you a personalized list of foods to enjoy and those to avoid during recovery.
How long does it take to fully heal after dental implant surgery?
Most patients feel comfortable within a few days, but complete healing can take several months as the implant integrates with your bone. This step is crucial for long-term success. We’ll schedule follow-up visits at our Apex office to monitor your progress and ensure everything is healing as expected.
Visit our Patient Education Center under the Topic “Restoring Teeth” and remember to look at related treatments on the Cosmetic Treatments page.