Why choose an implant?
| Dental implant | Bridge | Removable denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neighboring teeth | Left untouched | Shaved down to hold the bridge | Clasps can strain them |
| Jawbone | Helps preserve it | Bone under the gap keeps shrinking | Bone keeps shrinking |
| Feel | Like a natural tooth | Fixed, but can't floss normally | Can slip, comes out at night |
| Lifespan | Can last decades with good care | Often replaced after 10–15 years | Relined or remade over time |
How implants work
A small titanium post is placed in the jawbone where the tooth root used to be. Over a few months it bonds with the bone, and then we attach a custom crown, shaded and shaped to match your other teeth. Implants are placed right here in our office by Dr. Yang, Dr. Hu and our periodontist, Dr. Hourizadeh.
Planned in 3D, placed with a custom guide
Every implant starts with a cone-beam CT scan, a 3D X-ray of your jaw, plus a 3D iTero scan of your teeth. We use them to measure the bone, map nerves and sinuses, and plan the exact position of the implant before treatment begins. We then 3D-print a custom surgical guide in our office so the implant goes precisely where it was planned. Precise planning means a more predictable result and a more comfortable procedure.
Implant options
- Single-tooth implant: one implant and one crown for one missing tooth.
- Implant bridge: two implants supporting several teeth in a row.
- Implant-supported denture: a denture that snaps onto implants, so it stays secure.
- Full-arch restoration: a fixed set of teeth on four or more implants. See full mouth restorations.
Step by step
- Consultation and 3D scan. We examine the area, take a cone-beam scan and talk through your options and costs.
- Preparation, if needed. If the bone is thin, a bone graft or sinus lift rebuilds it first. Often a graft can be placed the same day a tooth is removed.
- Implant placement. The area is fully numbed and the implant is placed using your surgical guide. Most patients are back to normal activity the next day.
- Healing (about 3–6 months). The implant bonds with the bone. You'll have a temporary tooth if the space is visible.
- Your final crown. We scan the implant and attach a custom crown that matches your smile.
Who's a good candidate?
Most healthy adults with a missing tooth are candidates. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and active gum disease can affect healing, so we'll check for and treat any of these first. Not enough bone usually isn't a dead end, since grafting can rebuild it.
Caring for your implant
Brush and floss around your implant like a natural tooth, and keep up your regular cleanings. Implants can't get cavities, but the gums around them still need care.
Patients visit us from Port Washington, Manhasset and Great Neck, and from across Long Island and Queens.
After your visit
Home-care instructions: Implants aftercare · Bone graft aftercare · Sinus lift aftercare. All post-op instructions
Common questions
Does getting an implant hurt?
The area is fully numbed during placement. Most patients describe soreness for a few days afterward that's managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does the whole process take?
Typically three to six months from placement to final crown, longer if a bone graft is needed first.
How long do implants last?
With good care and regular checkups, the implant itself can last decades. The crown on top may eventually need replacing from normal wear.
What does an implant cost?
It depends on how many teeth, whether grafting is needed, and the type of restoration. We'll give you a written estimate after your consultation.
Does insurance cover implants?
Many PPO plans cover part of the cost. We'll check your benefits before you start.
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