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Restorative care

Dental implants in Herriman

Whether you are missing one tooth or all of them, implants are one way to bring back a steady bite. This page helps you see how they work and which path may fit you.

Call (385) 481-6738Insurance and payment

How do dental implants work?

An implant is a small post, usually titanium, that is placed in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be. Over a few months the bone grows snugly around it. The post then holds a crown, a bridge or a full denture.

  • Replaces the root as well as the visible tooth
  • Can support one tooth, several teeth or a whole arch
  • Helps keep the jawbone from shrinking where teeth are missing

Which implant option fits you

Implants are not one single treatment. The plan depends on how many teeth you are missing:

  • One missing tooth. A single post and crown fills the gap without touching the teeth next to it. See single tooth implants.
  • A few teeth in a row. Two implants can hold a bridge, so you do not need a post for every tooth.
  • Most or all teeth. Several implants can anchor a full denture that stays put. See implant-supported dentures.

Are you a good candidate?

Good candidates have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the post. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and some medicines can slow healing, so share your full health history. If bone has thinned, a bone graft may build it back first. Gum disease should be treated before any implant work.

The implant process, step by step

  1. Consult and imaging. Your dentist looks at x-rays or a 3D scan to measure your bone and map nerves and sinuses. You will talk through your options and a timeline.
  2. Getting ready. Some people need a tooth removed or a graft first. This can add a few months.
  3. Placing the implant. The area is numbed, a small opening is made in the gum and the post is set in the bone.
  4. Healing. The bone bonds to the post over about three to six months. You can often wear a temporary tooth or denture during this time.
  5. Final teeth. A connector called an abutment is added, then your crown, bridge or denture is attached.

Your dentist will plan your implant with you and explain each visit, including who will handle each step.

Implants, bridges or dentures?

A bridge is faster but files down the teeth on each side. Removable dentures cost less up front but can slip and do not slow bone loss. Implants take longer and need surgery, but they stand on their own.

Caring for implants

Implants cannot get cavities, but the gums around them can get infected. Brush twice a day, clean between teeth each day and use a water flosser or small brushes around the posts if your dentist suggests them. Keep your regular cleanings and checkups so we can spot problems early. If you grind your teeth, a night guard can protect your new teeth.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about dental implants

How long does the whole process take?
From the first visit to the final teeth, it often takes four to nine months. Healing time is the main reason. If you need a graft or an extraction first, it can take longer.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The area is numbed, so most people feel pressure, not sharp pain. You may be sore for a few days after. Many people manage with over-the-counter pain relief.
Can an implant fail?
Most implants heal well, but some do not bond to the bone. Smoking, gum infection and poor cleaning raise the risk. If an implant does not take, it can often be replaced after the area heals.
How many implants will I need?
It depends on how many teeth you are missing and what they will hold. One tooth needs one post. A full arch is often held by four or more posts. Your dentist will explain the number in your plan.
Will insurance cover implants?
Some plans cover part of the implant, the crown or related steps like extractions. Coverage varies a lot. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before you start.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Dentures

Custom full and partial dentures that replace missing teeth and help you chew and smile.

About dentures

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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