Dental Implants
in Rochester, NY
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 give 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.
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What materials are used in a dental implant?​​
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​Implant (Post): This is the titanium post that serves as the artificial tooth root that fuses with the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the crown.
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Abutment: This is the small piece that fits on top of the implant post and acts as a connector between the implant and the crown.
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Crown: This is the prosthetic part that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
What should I expect when 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.​
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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.*​
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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.
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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.
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​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).
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​ 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.
What happens during a dental bone graft?
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The area is numbed with local anesthesia (sedation may be used)
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A small incision is made to access the jawbone
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Bone graft material (your own bone, donor, animal, or synthetic) is placed in the area
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A membrane may be used to protect the graft
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The site is closed with sutures
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Over time, your body integrates the graft and forms new bone
What is a bone graft for dental implants?
If your jawbone does not have enough volume or density to support a dental implant, a bone graft may be recommended. This procedure helps rebuild bone structure, creating a stable foundation for the implant and improving long-term success.
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.
How can I benefit from getting dental implants?
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Restores Your Smile: Dental implants provide a stable foundation for natural-looking crowns, bridges, and dentures, helping you smile with confidence.
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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.
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Customizable to Your Needs: Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch.
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Ease to Maintenance: Implants are cared for just like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.
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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.
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Helps Protect Bone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its structure and reduce bone loss over time.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
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Although many patients are good candidates for dental implants, several key factors determine whether this treatment is appropriate. These include your overall health, gum condition, bone support, and lifestyle habits.​​
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Minimal Teeth Grinding / Bruxism – Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can place excessive pressure on dental implants, increasing the risk of complications. This can often be managed with a custom night guard or other treatment options.
When should you consider dental implants?
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​You may want to consider dental implants if you:
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Have One or More Missing Teeth – Missing teeth can lead to bone loss and shifting of surrounding teeth, affecting both function and appearance.​
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Have Experienced Dental Trauma –Teeth that are severely damaged or fractured may require extraction and replacement with an implant.​
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Have Loose or Uncomfortable Dentures – Implant-supported dentures can provide improved stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures.​​
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Have Difficulty Chewing Certain Foods – Missing teeth can limit your ability to eat a balanced diet; implants restore normal chewing function.
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Have a Tooth Extraction Due to Infection – After extraction, an implant can replace the missing tooth and help preserve bone structure.
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Fee Self-Conscious About Your Smile – Implants can restore both function and confidence by improving the appearance of your smile.
What is the cost of 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.
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Other factors that may affect cost include:
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The type of restoration (single crown, bridge, full-arch implants, or implant-supported dentures)
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The materials used (such as titanium, zirconia, or acrylic components)
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The complexity of your individual case
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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.
Select Your Desired Dental Implant
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental Implants in Rochester, NY
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Whether you are considering dental implants or already have a consultation scheduled, it’s normal to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns patients have about dental implant treatment.​
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Considerations for Dental Implant Success
Q: Are there any medical conditions that can affect dental implant success?
A: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis, or autoimmune diseases, can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. However, these conditions do not automatically prevent you from receiving dental implants. Working with your physician to manage these conditions can improve treatment outcomes.
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Q: Does smoking or vaping reduce dental implant success?
A: Yes. Smoking and vaping can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants by slowing healing, increasing the risk of infection, and interfering with osseointegration (the process where the implant bonds with the jawbone). Patients are strongly encouraged to stop using tobacco products before and after treatment.​​
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Implant Surgery
Q: Does getting dental implants hurt?
A: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during surgery. You may feel some pressure or vibration, but most patients find the procedure more comfortable than expected. Sedation options may also be available.
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Q: How long does the implant surgery take?
A: Placing a single dental implant typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. The total appointment time may be longer depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments, such as bone grafting or tooth extraction, are performed at the same time.
Q: What is osseointegration?
A: Osseointegration is the process in which the jawbone grows around and bonds with the dental implant. This creates a strong, stable foundation that allows the implant to function like a natural tooth.​
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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”.
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Q: What should I eat and drink after dental implant surgery?
A: For the first few days, eat soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, and avoid hot foods. As healing progresses, you can gradually reintroduce soft solid foods. Once healing is complete and the final restoration is placed, most patients can return to a normal diet.
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Q: What should I avoid after dental implant surgery?
A: 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.
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Q: Will I have a temporary tooth after implant surgery?
A: In many cases, yes. A temporary restoration may be placed to maintain appearance during healing. This temporary tooth is not designed for heavy chewing.
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Q: Will my final crown look natural?
A: Yes. The final crown is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your smile.
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Q: Will the implant feel like a natural tooth?
A: Yes. Once healing is complete, dental implants function similarly to natural teeth, allowing for normal chewing and speaking.
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Implant Maintenance and Longevity
Q: How should I care for my dental implants?
A: 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.
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Q: Do dental implants last a lifetime?
A: Although the titanium implant (post) is designed to last a lifetime, the prosthetic crown will likely need maintenance or replacement over time.
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Q: How can I make my dental implants last longer?
A: To maximize longevity:
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Avoid smoking or vaping
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Protect against teeth grinding (night guard if needed)
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Avoid chewing hard objects (such as ice or hard candy)
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Maintain good overall health and oral hygiene
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General Questions
Q: What are the alternatives to dental implants?
A: Alternatives include dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures. The best option depends on your specific condition and goals.
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Q: What is the total cost of dental implants?
A: The cost varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of implants needed, and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are required. A consultation is necessary to determine an exact treatment plan and cost.
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Q: How long will the entire dental implant process take?
A: The full process typically takes between 3 to 9 months, depending on healing time and whether additional procedures are needed. Your timeline will be customized based on your specific treatment plan.​
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:
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A comprehensive evaluation of your oral health
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Discussion of your treatment goals and options
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Imaging to assess bone structure and implant candidacy
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A customized treatment plan designed for long-term success
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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.