Replace Missing Teeth Without Compromising Adjacent Structure

Dental implant placement and restoration in Valley Cottage, New York

If you've lost one or more teeth and want a replacement that doesn't rely on the teeth next to it for support, dental implants offer a permanent solution rooted directly into your jawbone. In Valley Cottage, where patients often weigh the trade-offs between bridges and removable dentures, implants stand out because they restore chewing function without altering healthy neighboring teeth. You brush and floss around them just as you would a natural tooth, and they don't shift or require adhesive.

At Gabrielle Dental, the process begins with 3D CBCT imaging to assess bone density and map the exact placement path. Digitally guided planning allows the implant to be positioned with precision, supporting long-term stability and reducing the risk of complications. Once the implant integrates with your bone, a custom restoration is designed using digital impressions and a CAD/CAM workflow, which means better fit and more natural contours. For patients replacing multiple teeth, implants can also serve as anchors for dentures or be incorporated into a full restorative treatment plan.

If you're ready to explore whether dental implants are the right fit for your situation in Valley Cottage, reach out to schedule a consultation and imaging evaluation.

How the implant is planned and placed

You'll first undergo a cone beam CT scan, which captures a three-dimensional view of your jawbone, sinuses, and nerve pathways. This scan is used to identify the optimal angle and depth for the implant post. In Valley Cottage, Gabrielle Dental uses this data to create a digital surgical guide that ensures the implant is positioned exactly where it needs to be for both function and future crown placement.

After the implant is placed, it fuses with your bone over the course of several months in a process called osseointegration. Once that integration is complete, you'll notice the implant feels stable when you bite down, and the custom crown or bridge attached to it blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth in both color and shape. The result is a tooth that doesn't move, doesn't require special cleaning solutions, and performs like the tooth it replaced.

The entire process spans multiple visits, and healing time varies based on bone quality and overall health. If bone grafting is needed to improve density, that adds time to the treatment timeline. Implants are not suitable for every case, particularly if untreated periodontal disease or uncontrolled diabetes is present, so a thorough evaluation is required before moving forward.

You probably have a few questions before committing

Dental implants are a significant investment in both time and cost, so it's normal to want clarity on what the process actually involves and whether you're a candidate before scheduling anything.

How long does the entire implant process take?
From initial imaging to final crown placement, the process typically takes three to six months, depending on healing time and whether bone grafting is required. Most of that time is spent allowing the implant to integrate with your jawbone.
What makes 3D imaging necessary for implant placement?
CBCT scans show bone density, nerve locations, and sinus cavities in three dimensions, which helps avoid complications during placement and ensures the implant is angled correctly for long-term function. Standard X-rays don't provide enough detail for surgical planning.
Can implants be used to support dentures?
Yes, implants can anchor a full or partial denture, which eliminates the need for adhesive and prevents the denture from shifting when you chew or speak. This is called an implant-supported denture.
What happens if there isn't enough bone for an implant?
If bone density is insufficient, a bone graft can be placed to build up the area before implant placement. This adds several months to the timeline but improves the chances of successful integration.
How do you care for a dental implant after it's placed?
You care for it the same way you would a natural tooth—brushing twice daily, flossing around the crown, and keeping up with regular cleanings. There's no soaking or removal involved.

Dental implants at Gabrielle Dental are planned using digital guides and placed with attention to bone structure and bite alignment, so the final restoration functions as part of your natural dentition. If you're considering implants and want to understand what your specific case would involve, contact the office in Valley Cottage to schedule an evaluation and imaging appointment.