Dental implants in York

A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth with a small titanium post that bonds with your jawbone. A crown, bridge or denture is then attached on top. Implants look and work like natural teeth, don't decay, and don't rely on the neighboring teeth for support.

Why see a periodontist for implants

Periodontists spend three years after dental school training in surgery on the gums and jawbone, which is where an implant lives. If you need bone or gum grafting before an implant, we do that here too, so you are not sent to another office mid-treatment. We work closely with your general dentist, who usually makes the final crown or denture.

What implants can replace

A single tooth

One implant and one crown, with no need to grind down the teeth on either side as a bridge would.

Several teeth

Two implants can support a bridge of three or four teeth.

All upper or lower teeth

Two to six implants can hold a denture firmly in place, either one that snaps in and out for cleaning or a fixed set of teeth that stays in. Many denture wearers tell us it is the first time in years they can eat without worrying.

Do I have enough bone?

After a tooth is lost, the bone around it slowly shrinks. If there isn't enough left, we can rebuild it with bone grafting, sometimes at the same visit as the implant. X-rays and, when needed, a 3D scan at your consultation tell us exactly what you have to work with.

What it costs

Cost depends on how many implants you need, whether grafting is required, and what goes on top. We give you a written estimate after your consultation, before you commit to anything. See dental implant cost for what affects the price and how insurance and financing work.

What to expect

1. ConsultationWe take X-rays or a 3D scan as needed, look at your bone, gums and bite and talk about which options fit your goals and budget.
2. Preparing the siteIf needed, we remove a failing tooth and graft bone so the implant has a solid foundation.
3. Placing the implantA short procedure under local anesthetic. Nitrous oxide or IV sedation is available if you'd like it. Most people take a day or two off.
4. HealingThe implant bonds with the bone over about 3 to 6 months. You wear a temporary tooth in the meantime when it's in a visible spot.
5. Your new toothYour dentist attaches the final crown, bridge or denture.

Questions we hear often

How long do dental implants last?

With good home care and regular checkups, implants can last for decades. The crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years from normal wear.

Does getting an implant hurt?

The area is fully numbed. Most patients say it was easier than having the tooth taken out, and manage afterward with over-the-counter pain relief.

Am I too old for implants?

There is no upper age limit. What matters is your general health and the bone available. Many of our implant patients are in their 70s and 80s.

Can implants fail?

It is uncommon. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and gum disease raise the risk, which is why we treat any gum disease first.