Dental Implants
The Gold Standard in Tooth Replacement
Dental implants represent the most advanced solution for replacing missing teeth, offering permanent restoration that looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth. At Irmo Dentistry, Dr. Jameson Davis coordinates comprehensive implant treatment with trusted specialist partners to provide seamless care from initial consultation through final restoration. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your implant treatment meets the highest standards for surgical precision and restorative excellence.
Our coordinated implant program serves patients throughout Irmo and surrounding South Carolina communities who want the most reliable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth. While the surgical placement is performed by our specialist partners, Dr. Davis provides the comprehensive planning and final restoration that transforms your implant into a beautiful, functional tooth. This team approach combines surgical expertise with restorative artistry to deliver implant solutions that exceed expectations for both function and aesthetics.
BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
Permanent Tooth Replacement
Dental implants provide a permanent solution for missing teeth that can last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike bridges or dentures that may need replacement, implants integrate with your jawbone to create a stable, long-lasting foundation that maintains its strength and function for decades.
Complete Function Restoration
Implants restore full chewing capability, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods with confidence. They function exactly like natural teeth, providing stable bite forces and natural sensation that bridges and dentures cannot match, giving you complete freedom in your dietary choices.
Jawbone Health Protection
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preventing bone loss that occurs with missing teeth. This bone preservation maintains facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that can develop when teeth are replaced with removable options that don’t stimulate bone growth.
STEPS OF PROCEDURE
Process
Step 1
Comprehensive Evaluation and Planning
We conduct a thorough examination, including 3D imaging, to assess bone quality, quantity, and anatomical structures. Working with our specialist partners, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and ensures optimal implant placement for long-term success.
Step 2
Specialist Surgical Placement
Our trusted oral surgeon or periodontist partners perform the precise surgical placement of the titanium implant into your jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation options available for your comfort during the surgical phase of treatment.
Step 3
Healing and Integration Period
The implant is allowed to heal and integrate with your jawbone over several months through a process called osseointegration. During this time, we may provide temporary restoration options to maintain function and appearance while your implant becomes permanently integrated with your bone.
Step 4
Abutment Placement and Impression
Once integration is complete, we place the abutment that will connect your implant to the final crown. Precise impressions are taken to ensure that your custom crown fits perfectly and integrates seamlessly with your natural teeth for optimal function and aesthetics.
Step 5
Final Crown Fabrication and Placement
We design and place your custom implant crown, carefully matching the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The final restoration is securely attached to your implant, completing your tooth replacement with a beautiful, functional result that looks and feels completely natural.
Coordinated Specialist Care
At Irmo Dentistry, we believe that successful implant treatment requires close coordination between surgical and restorative specialists. We work exclusively with board-certified oral surgeons and periodontists who share our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care. This collaborative approach ensures seamless communication throughout your treatment, from initial planning through final restoration, providing you with the highest level of care available.
Our role in your implant treatment focuses on comprehensive planning, temporary restorations during healing, and the final crown or bridge that transforms your implant into a functional, beautiful tooth. We coordinate every aspect of your care to minimize appointments, reduce treatment time, and ensure optimal results. This integrated approach means you receive specialist-level surgical care while maintaining the continuity and personal attention of your trusted general dentist throughout the entire process.
Implant Restoration Expert
Dr. Jameson Davis has extensive training in implant restoration, combining his expertise in restorative dentistry with advanced knowledge of implant systems and protocols. His meticulous approach to implant planning ensures that every restoration is designed for optimal function, aesthetics, and long-term success. Dr. Davis works closely with our specialist partners throughout the treatment process, ensuring seamless coordination and communication that puts patient comfort and outcomes first. His attention to detail in crown fabrication and placement creates implant restorations that are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. He believes that successful implant treatment requires not only surgical precision but also restorative artistry, and his commitment to both aspects ensures that every patient receives comprehensive care that exceeds expectations for both function and beauty.
FAQS
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people with missing teeth are good candidates for dental implants, provided they have adequate bone density and healthy gums. Factors such as overall health, smoking habits, and certain medications may affect candidacy. We conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including 3D imaging, to determine if implants are right for you and discuss alternative options if needed.
How long does the implant process take?
The complete implant process typically takes 3-6 months from initial placement to final restoration, depending on healing time and individual factors. While the surgical placement takes only 1-2 hours, the integration period allows the implant to become permanently fused with your jawbone before the final crown can be placed.
Are dental implants painful?
Most patients report that implant surgery is much more comfortable than they expected. Local anesthesia eliminates pain during the procedure, and post-operative discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled with over-the-counter medications. Many patients return to work the next day, though we recommend taking it easy for a few days.
How do I care for my dental implant?
Care for implants just like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. While implants cannot develop cavities, maintaining healthy gums around the implant is essential for long-term success. Regular dental visits allow us to monitor your implant and provide professional maintenance to ensure optimal health.
How much do dental implants cost?
While implants have a higher initial cost than other tooth replacement options, they often provide the best long-term value due to their permanence and durability. Many insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants, and we offer financing options to make treatment affordable. We’ll provide detailed cost information during your consultation.
What if I don't have enough bone for an implant?
Advanced techniques such as bone grafting can often create adequate bone support for implant placement. Our specialist partners are experienced in these procedures and can evaluate whether bone augmentation would allow you to receive implants. We’ll discuss all options during your comprehensive evaluation and recommend the best approach for your situation.
