Get Your Free St. Louis Dental Implants Information Guide

What Dental Implants Are and How They Work

Dental implants are replacement teeth that look and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are anchored directly into your jawbone. Understanding how they work helps you make informed decisions about your oral health options.

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A dental implant consists of three main parts: the implant (a small titanium post), the abutment (a connector piece), and the crown (the visible tooth). The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Over several months, the bone fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation. Once integration is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant, and then a custom crown is placed on top.

The process typically takes between three to nine months from start to finish, depending on your specific situation and healing. Some people may experience faster healing, while others need more time. Your dentist will create a timeline based on your individual circumstances.

Implants differ from other replacement options in several ways. Bridges require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth to support the replacement tooth. Dentures sit on top of the gums and can shift when eating or speaking. Implants stand alone and don't require modification of nearby teeth. They also feel more natural and allow normal eating and speaking without adjustment.

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, implants have a success rate of approximately 95-98% when placed in adequate bone and maintained with proper care. The titanium material is biocompatible, meaning your body generally accepts it well without rejection issues.

Takeaway: Learning the basic structure and process of implants helps you understand what dentists will discuss during your consultation and what to expect during treatment.

Common Reasons People in St. Louis Consider Dental Implants

Many St. Louis residents explore dental implants for various reasons. Understanding why people choose this option can help you think through whether it matches your situation.

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One of the most common reasons is tooth loss from decay or damage. Cavities that become severe infections may require tooth extraction. Accidents, sports injuries, or trauma can also result in lost teeth. In St. Louis, as in other areas, untreated cavities remain a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Gum disease is another significant factor. Advanced periodontitis can weaken the bone and tissues supporting teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. The CDC reports that about half of American adults have some form of gum disease. Left untreated, it progresses and damages the structures that hold teeth in place.

Some people have worn dentures for years and find them uncomfortable or inconvenient. Dentures require daily cleaning, can cause mouth sores, and may slip during eating or speaking. After years of bone loss from wearing dentures, implants may still be possible with bone grafting procedures.

Age is not the deciding factor—many people in their 60s, 70s, and beyond have received implants successfully. What matters more is bone density and overall health. Younger people sometimes choose implants after losing teeth from accidents or aggressive sports.

Preserving remaining teeth is another consideration. Unlike bridges, implants don't require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth. This preservation of natural teeth structure is important for long-term oral health.

Takeaway: Identifying your specific reason for considering implants helps you prepare questions for your dental consultation.

What St. Louis Residents Should Know About Costs and Payment Options

The cost of dental implants varies significantly based on several factors. A free informational guide can outline the cost factors and payment approaches that exist, though final pricing depends on your individual situation and chosen dentist.

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Several elements affect the overall cost of implant treatment. The number of teeth being replaced matters—a single implant costs less than replacing multiple teeth. The location of the missing tooth also plays a role; some areas require more complex surgical placement. Some people need bone grafting to build up the jawbone before implant placement, which adds to the total cost. The type of crown selected—different materials and designs have different prices—also influences the final expense.

In the St. Louis area, a single dental implant, including the post, abutment, and crown, may range from $1,500 to $6,000 or more, depending on the factors above. This range reflects what different dental practices charge based on their location, experience level, and materials used.

Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options. Some use third-party financing companies that allow you to pay over time with or without interest, depending on the plan. Asking about these options during your first consultation is standard practice.

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies widely. Some plans cover a portion of the cost, while others do not cover implants at all. Coverage often depends on whether the plan classifies implants as restorative or cosmetic. Reviewing your specific insurance policy or contacting your insurance company before scheduling treatment helps you understand what may be covered.

Some dental schools in Missouri offer implant services at reduced rates as part of their training programs. This may be an option to explore if cost is a significant concern, though treatment typically takes longer.

Takeaway: Understanding cost factors and researching payment options before your consultation allows you to make informed financial decisions about treatment.

Health Conditions and Factors That Affect Implant Treatment

Certain health conditions and lifestyle factors influence whether implants are suitable and how successful they may be. An informational guide can explain these factors so you understand what your dentist might discuss.

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Bone density is crucial for implant success. The titanium post must anchor into solid bone. People who have worn dentures for many years often experience bone loss and may need bone grafting before implant placement. Conditions like osteoporosis affect bone quality. Some medications, particularly those affecting bone metabolism, may be relevant to discuss with your dentist.

Gum health matters significantly. If you have active gum disease, it typically needs treatment before implant placement. Healthy gums around the implant are essential for long-term success. Some people require gum grafting if tissue is insufficient.

Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, can affect healing and implant integration. People with well-controlled diabetes have better outcomes than those with poorly managed blood sugar. Your dentist may want to coordinate with your physician.

Smoking impairs healing and increases implant failure risk. Smokers experience slower bone integration and higher complication rates. Some dentists may recommend quitting before implant placement or may discuss the increased risks candidly.

Certain medications that affect bone healing or immune function may be relevant. Bisphosphonates (medications for osteoporosis) and some cancer medications can impact treatment planning. Always mention all medications and supplements to your dentist.

Age itself is not a barrier. Healthy older adults frequently receive implants successfully. What matters is overall health and bone quality, not the number of years you've lived.

Jaw radiation therapy for cancer treatment can affect bone healing and bone density in that area. This is important to discuss before pursuing implants.

Takeaway: Reviewing your health history and medications before your consultation helps your dentist plan appropriate treatment or discuss any adjustments needed.

Steps in the Implant Process and What to Expect

The dental implant process involves multiple stages over several months. Understanding the typical progression helps you know what to expect and how to prepare.

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The first step is an initial consultation. Your dentist examines your mouth, takes X-rays or 3D scans, and discusses your goals. They may order a CT scan to evaluate bone density and anatomy. You'll discuss your health history, medications, and any concerns. This visit allows you to ask questions and understand the proposed plan.

If bone grafting is needed, that procedure may happen first. Bone material (from your own bone, donor bone, or synthetic material) is placed where bone is deficient. Healing typically requires three to nine months before implant placement can proceed.

Implant placement is a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia or sedation. The dentist makes an incision in the gum, prepares the bone, and places the titanium post. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to two