What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are metal, usually made out of titanium, and they're almost like a pin that is screwed into the bone in the jaw. When it's there, it can act as a replacement for the missing root part of the tooth. The tooth has two parts: the part that we see and the part that we do not see, which is in the bone. Dental implants replace this part of the tooth.
When people look for dental implants, they're not really looking for the implant. They're looking for a tooth. An implant is a means of getting a tooth. Once there is an implant in place and it's a healthy and strong implant, then we can build a whole tooth over it. There are different ways of providing this tooth. It can be either a crown that is cemented on it or a crown that is screwed to it.
Whenever a patient gets an implant and a tooth over the implant, it really comes in three parts. The first part is the implant itself. There's the surgical part, and that goes into the bone. The second part is the attachment to the implant, and that's called an abutment. It's a dental term, and it's just a connection between the implant and the tooth. Over this attachment, which is called the abutment, comes the crown. The crown is really what you see, and it should resemble a natural tooth and should behave like a natural tooth.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people are good candidates for dental implants. What is important to consider is that there is enough bone, as a dental implant has to be anchored in bone and surrounded by healthy bone because the bone will keep it in place.
If there are any systemic diseases, there are some diseases that can prevent dental implants or decrease the chances of survival of dental implants. These include autoimmune diseases or uncontrolled diabetes. This includes some of the bone density medications that people take. It usually applies to females after the menopause stage. If there's low bone density, doctors will prescribe bone density medications, and these can decrease the chances of implant survival in the bone.
All these questions should be discussed with the dentist who's doing the surgery for the implants. Another thing to consider is really smoking. That's the big one. For people who smoke, it decreases the chances for implant success for the most part because there is less blood flow toward the site of the implant and the bone cannot really form there.
Having good systemic health, not smoking, no uncontrolled diabetes, and no systemic diseases will make a candidate a good candidate for implants. It really covers more than 70% of people. In my mind, they are good candidates for implants. The other 30% that have some types of diseases can also be controlled with proper diet and by working with your medical doctor as well.
What is the difference between mini implants and full implants?
Mini implants are small implants, and I personally do not support using them. I know there is research supporting their use, but at Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, I only recommend full implants, as there has been recorded success in the literature showing good long-term results of regular full implants.
Mini implants cost less than full implants. Their durability is also less. I've seen more complications with mini implants.
What is the process for getting dental implants?
The process for dental implants is a journey. It all starts with getting to see your doctor, having a health questionnaire answered, and seeing that you're a good candidate. If you are, and most people are, then there is an image to take. It's called a cone beam CT, or the short version, CBCT. With this image, we can see how much bone there is.
If there is enough bone, then the implant surgery can be scheduled and you will come in for surgery. The implant will be placed. If there's not enough bone, then different grafting procedures can be done to add bone to the site, and this can improve the volume of the bone that you will have in the future for implant placement.
Once the implant is placed, there is a waiting time of anywhere between two, three, or four months, waiting for that implant to get a strong hold inside the bone. When it happens, which is usually after 3 months, then you're ready for the next stage, which is the restorative prosthetic phase.
If it's for a single crown, then it's just a two-impression process. You come to the office, we take the impression of the implant, give it to the lab, and then produce the crown that goes over the implant.
If it's an overdenture, then we do the whole denture start to finish, having in mind the implants that you have.
If it is a fixed denture or a hybrid type situation where it is a screw-retained single bridge over implants, then there's a whole process to make the bridge, and it's a few appointments, waiting time, and toward the end you will get a fixed bridge over the implants.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a long time as long as they're being taken care of properly. A big part of it is really the personal at-home oral hygiene that a patient will do. If you follow the instructions that the doctor gives you and do all the oral hygiene properly, dental implants should last because they cannot really get cavities.
The most common diseases of dental implants are peri-implant mucositis, and that's a disease of the gums that goes around the implants, or peri-implantitis, and that's the disease of the bone around the implants. That's when the bone that surrounds the implant is decreasing and we get less and less of this bone. To prevent this, it's really oral hygiene, not keeping any food around the implant, and just brushing and flossing regularly.
Another piece of it is seeing your dentist regularly and making sure that the dentist evaluates the implants on a regular basis, at least every six months. For some people, it's every 3 months. Another thing is to avoid smoking if possible. Smoking decreases the long-term success of implants.
Also, systemic diseases: if all of a sudden you get systemic diseases that can damage bone or affect bone, this will affect the implants as well. It will affect the bone around the implant. Diabetes is a big one. As long as diabetes is under control, and you speak about hemoglobin A1C values within normal limits, which is 5.5 up to 6, once it gets to the levels of 7, 8, and 9, this is uncontrolled diabetes, and then it affects the whole body, not just dental implants, really the whole immune system. Any other diseases, and chemotherapy and radiation treatment, can also negatively affect dental implant survival.
However, for a person who is healthy and has a healthy lifestyle, sees their doctors on a normal basis, sees their dentist on a regular basis, and has good oral hygiene, implant survival will be long, very long. There really should not be any problems with these dental implants.
Will they survive for a person's lifespan? It's hard to say. Everything has a lifespan. For some people, it's longer. For others, it's less long. In terms of years, we now have follow-up and survival rates of implants of over 10 years, over 20 years, reported in research. So there are a lot of lessons to be learned over the years.
We also see a lot of implant failures, unfortunately, and that usually happens for different reasons. It does not always depend on the patient. Some of these are things that are not in your hands. These are things that are outside your control. But the failures are happening, and we see them more and more.
That doesn't mean that we should not really look into doing dental implants. No. Dental implants are really a good option to restore missing teeth, and if done properly and taken care of properly, they can provide really beautiful, great results.
If you’re ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at (585) 522-1922 or email rocprostho@gmail.com. We look forward to caring for your smile.
Dr. Isaac Kuyunov is a Top-Rated Dental Implant Specialist
Dental implants are one of the most advanced and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. At Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, NY, Dr. Isaac Kuyunov provides implant treatment designed to restore both function and appearance with natural-looking, durable results.
Tooth loss can occur due to gum disease, decay, or trauma. Dental implants allow us to replace missing teeth in a way that closely mimics natural teeth while helping preserve bone, oral health, and giving you a natural-looking smile.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. The implant acts as an anchor to support a dental prosthesis and forms a bond to the bone. After healing, a custom restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, is attached using an abutment. This creates a stable, long-term solution compared to traditional restorative options for tooth replacement.
What are the components of a dental implant?
- Implant (Post): The titanium post that serves as the artificial tooth root, fusing with the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the crown.
- Abutment: The small piece that fits on top of the implant post and acts as a connector between the implant and the crown.
- Crown: The prosthetic part that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
What is the typical process for getting dental implants?
The dental implant process is not one-size-fits-all. Factors such as the type of implant, the condition of your jawbone, and whether additional procedures (such as bone grafting) are needed can affect the timeline. The typical dental implant process starts first with a consultation and imaging. What follows is implant placement, healing and osseointegration, custom prosthesis fabrication, and final placement and adjustments. Your treatment plan will be customized to your specific needs. The following outlines the typical steps involved in more detail.
Step 1 – Initial Assessment
During your first visit, your goals and medical history are reviewed, and a comprehensive exam is performed. Imaging such as X-rays may be taken to evaluate bone structure and determine whether you are a candidate for dental implants or if additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are required.*
Step 2 – Surgical Implant Placement
The implant is placed into the jawbone using local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The procedure is often compared to the reverse of a tooth extraction, as the implant is positioned where the natural root once existed. Pre- or post-operative medications may be prescribed to support healing.
Step 3 – Healing and Recovery
Initial healing occurs within a few weeks, while full integration of the implant with the bone may take several months. This process, known as osseointegration, provides the long-term stability needed for the implant to function like a natural tooth.
Step 4 – Impressions of the Implant
Once the implant has healed, an impression is taken to capture its exact position. This allows for the precise fabrication of your custom abutment (connector) and crown (replacement tooth).
Step 5 – Final Placement and Adjustments
The abutment and restoration are placed and carefully adjusted to ensure proper fit, function, and appearance. A final X-ray may be taken to confirm accurate positioning.
*Bone Grafts: If there is not enough bone to hold the implant, a bone augmentation may be offered. This is a separate procedure performed prior to implant placement. The goal of a bone graft is to create the minimum bone dimension needed to house the dental implant. The implant can then be placed 4–6 months later.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Although most people are good candidates for dental implants, several key factors will determine if they are the right option for you, including your overall health, sufficient jawbone density, and freedom from untreated periodontal disease.
- Good Medical Health: Dental implants are most successful in patients who are in good overall health. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes can interfere with healing, and recent cardiac events may require delaying treatment. Certain medications, including steroids or immune-suppressing drugs, may also affect candidacy.
- Healthy Gums: Healthy gum tissue is essential for implant success. Patients with untreated gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, may require treatment before implants can be placed.
- Sufficient Bone Density: Dental implants require adequate bone volume and density for support. Patients with bone loss may still be candidates, but a bone graft may be recommended to rebuild the necessary bone structure prior to placement.
- Not Using Tobacco Products: Smoking and tobacco use can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Patients are strongly encouraged to stop using tobacco before and after implant treatment to improve outcomes and overall health.
- A Commitment to Good Oral Hygiene: Long-term implant success depends on maintaining good oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental visits, help prevent infection and support the health of the surrounding bone and gums.
- Minimal Teeth Grinding / Bruxism: Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can place too much pressure on dental implants, increasing the risk of complications. This can often be managed with a custom night guard, along with other treatments options.
Dental Implants and Bone Grafts
What is a bone graft?
If your jawbone isn't strong or thick enough to hold an implant securely, a bone graft is sometimes needed. The graft replaces lost bone and creates a stable base, greatly increasing the success and longevity of the dental implant. Bone grafts increase implant success, restore jawbone structure, and help prevent future bone loss.
What is involved in getting a bone graft?
- The area is numbed with local anesthesia (or sedation for comfort).
- A small incision is made in your gum to expose the jawbone.
- Bone graft material (your own bone, donor, animal, or synthetic) is placed into the empty space.
- A membrane may cover the graft, and the gum is stitched closed.
- Your body grows new bone onto the graft over several months.
Can a bone graft and dental implant surgery be done at the same time?
In some cases, yes. When bone loss is minimal, bone grafting and implant placement may be performed during the same visit.
If bone loss is more significant, the graft is completed first, followed by implant placement after healing. In these situations, temporary teeth may be provided until treatment is complete.
What are the benefits of getting dental implants?
- Restores Your Smile: Dental implants provide a stable foundation for natural-looking crowns, bridges, and dentures, helping you smile with confidence.
- Looks, Feels, and Functions Like Natural Teeth: Implant-supported restorations closely mimic natural teeth in both appearance and function, allowing for comfortable chewing and speaking.
- Customizable to Your Needs: Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch.
- Ease to Maintenance: Implants are cared for just like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.
- Long-Lasting and Durable: The implant itself is designed to be a long-term solution, while restorations are durable and can be replaced if needed.
- Helps Protect Bone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its structure and reduce bone loss over time.
When should you consider getting dental implants?
You should consider dental implants if you have one or more missing or irreparably damaged teeth and want a permanent solution that is comfortable and functional.
- To Replace One or More Missing Teeth: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss or cause neighboring teeth to shift, resulting in structural issues and aesthetic problems.
- Have Experienced Dental Trauma: Teeth that are severely damaged or fractured may require extraction and replacement with an implant.
- Have Loose or Uncomfortable Dentures: Implant-supported dentures can provide improved stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures.
- Have Difficulty Chewing Certain Foods: Missing teeth can limit your ability to eat a balanced diet; implants restore normal chewing function.
- Have a Tooth Extraction Due to Infection: After extraction, an implant can replace the missing tooth and help preserve bone structure.
- Feel Self-Conscious About Your Smile: Implants can restore both function and confidence by improving the appearance of your smile.
Why Choose a Prosthodontist for Dental Implants?
Prosthodontists receive advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth, including complex dental implant cases. As a prosthodontist in Rochester, NY, Dr. Isaac Kuyunov focuses on the precise planning and restoration of dental implants to achieve long-term function, stability, and natural esthetics.
Dental implant treatment often involves more than just placing the implant — it requires careful consideration of bite alignment, jaw structure, and the final restoration. Prosthodontists are uniquely trained to manage these details, especially in complex cases such as full-mouth reconstruction or implant-supported dentures.
Patients seeking dental implants in Rochester, NY can benefit from this specialized expertise, particularly when treatment requires a comprehensive, long-term approach to restoring both function and esthetics.
What is the Cost for Dental Implants?
The cost of dental implants in Rochester, NY can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the condition of your jawbone, and whether additional procedures — such as bone grafting or tooth extractions — are required.
Other factors that may affect cost include:
- The type of restoration (single crown, bridge, full-arch implants, or implant-supported dentures)
- The materials used (such as titanium, zirconia, or acrylic components)
- The complexity of your individual case
Because every patient's needs are different, the most accurate way to determine the cost of dental implants is through a personalized consultation. During your visit, we will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants in Rochester, NY
Whether you're thinking about getting a dental implant or you already have a consultation scheduled, you likely have plenty of questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from patients.
Considerations for Dental Implant Success
Implant Surgery
Post-Implant Surgery
Here is a brief description for how to care for yourself after implant surgery. For more in-depth and detailed instructions, please read our Blog article "What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery".
Avoid hard or crunchy foods, alcohol, carbonated beverages, and drinking through a straw during the initial healing phase. These can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
Implant Maintenance and Longevity
Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and maintain routine dental visits to prevent infection and ensure long-term success. And make sure you are keeping up with your regular dental visits.
Although the titanium implant (post) is designed to last a lifetime, the prosthetic crown will likely need maintenance or replacement over time.
- Avoid smoking or vaping, which increase the risk of implant failure and slow healing.
- Protect against teeth grinding and clenching with a custom-fit night guard.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using your teeth as a tool, as these can chip or crack the crown.
- Manage your overall health, as conditions like uncontrolled diabetes can affect implant healing and bone health.
General Questions
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implant Dentist in Rochester, NY
If you are considering dental implants in Rochester, NY, scheduling a consultation is the first step toward restoring your smile, oral health, and function. During your consultation with Dr. Isaac Kuyunov, you can expect:
- A comprehensive evaluation of your oral health
- Discussion of your treatment goals and options
- Imaging to assess bone structure and implant candidacy
- A customized treatment plan designed for long-term success
Whether you need to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or are exploring full-arch dental implants, our goal is to provide a solution that is functional, comfortable, and natural-looking.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and learn if dental implants are the right option for you.