A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone that serves as the root for a replacement tooth. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a crown is attached — and the result looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Implants are the most durable tooth replacement option available. With good care, they can last decades.
When implants are the right choice
Implants work well for:
- Replacing a single missing tooth without altering neighboring teeth
- Supporting a dental bridge where no natural anchors exist
- Anchoring overdentures or full-arch restorations
Unlike a bridge, an implant doesn’t require reshaping the adjacent teeth. Unlike a denture, it doesn’t rest on the gums — it’s fixed and stable.
The implant process
Treatment takes several months because the implant needs time to fuse with the bone (a process called osseointegration):
- Consultation and imaging — We use 3D CT scanning to assess your bone density and plan exact placement.
- Implant placement — The titanium post is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. Oral sedation is available if needed.
- Healing period — The implant integrates with the bone over 3–6 months. A temporary restoration may be placed during this time.
- Crown placement — Once healing is confirmed, an abutment and custom crown are attached. The crown is matched to the color and shape of your neighboring teeth.
If you don’t have enough bone for an implant, bone grafting can often address that before the implant is placed.
Common questions
Are implants painful?
The placement procedure is done under local anesthesia. Most patients describe the recovery as similar to a tooth extraction — soreness for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Does insurance cover implants?
Many plans do not cover implants, though coverage varies. We’ll help you understand your benefits and discuss payment options.
Am I a candidate if I smoke?
Smoking slows healing and raises the risk of implant failure. We’ll discuss this honestly at your consultation.
Book a consultation in Henderson
Call Green Valley Dentistry at (702) 456-7818 or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Henderson, Green Valley Ranch, Anthem, MacDonald Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Paradise, Whitney, Boulder City, Enterprise, and Spring Valley.