Dental implants and bone grafting
A plain language guide to replacing missing teeth with dental implants, and how bone grafting can help when bone has been lost.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium, that is placed in the jaw where a tooth is missing. It takes the place of the tooth root. After it heals into the bone, a crown, bridge or denture is attached to it so you can chew and smile with a replacement that is held firmly in place.
Implant care is a team effort. The surgeon plans and places the implant, and your general dentist or a prosthodontist makes and fits the new tooth. Dr. Bednar works closely with your dentist so the plan fits your bite and your goals.
Who may be a candidate
Implants can replace one tooth, several teeth or all of the teeth. A candidate generally has healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. Some health conditions and habits, including smoking and poorly controlled diabetes, can affect healing, so your surgeon reviews your history before recommending treatment.
When bone grafting is needed
When a tooth has been missing for a long time, or has been lost to infection or gum disease, the bone can shrink. If there is not enough bone, a bone graft can rebuild it before or at the same time as the implant. In the upper jaw, a sinus lift can add height when the sinus sits close to the bone. Your 3D scan shows what is needed.
The steps
Most treatment follows these steps. The timing is different for every patient.
The steps are: an exam with a 3D scan and a plan made with your dentist; removal of a failing tooth and a bone graft if needed; placement of the implant with numbing or sedation; a healing period, often a few months, while the implant joins the bone; and then the final crown, bridge or denture from your dentist.
Common questions
How long do dental implants last?
With good home care and regular dental visits, many implants last for many years. No result can be guaranteed, because gum health, habits and general health all play a part.
Is getting an implant painful?
The area is numbed, and many patients choose sedation. Afterward, soreness and swelling are common for a few days and are usually managed with the medication your surgeon recommends.
Can I get an implant if I have lost bone?
Often yes. A bone graft or sinus lift may be done first or together with the implant. A 3D scan shows how much bone you have and what is needed.
How is an implant different from a bridge or a denture?
A bridge uses the neighboring teeth for support, and a denture rests on the gums. An implant is anchored in the jaw bone, so it does not rely on other teeth and helps keep the bone in that area stimulated. Which option fits depends on your mouth, your health and your preferences.
Do I need a referral?
Many patients come through their dentist, but you do not have to. The practice can schedule a consultation, and Dr. Bednar will coordinate with your dentist for the restorative part.
How do I care for an implant?
Brush and clean between the teeth every day as you would for natural teeth, and keep up regular dental cleanings and checkups. Your team will show you the best tools for your mouth.
This guide is general information and is not medical or dental advice. Every patient is different, and your own surgeon will recommend what is right for you. Please do not send health information through this website.
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Ready to talk with a surgeon?
Dr. Bednar provides this care at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, P.A., and welcomes patients from across the Twin Cities metro and surrounding Minnesota communities. Dentists can refer a patient online.
Learn more at the practice Office locations and phone numbers Refer a patient