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Dental implants are one of the longest-lasting solutions for missing teeth — but they're not the right answer for every patient. A clear-eyed look at the advantages and the trade-offs makes the decision easier.
Learn about implants at our Centennial dental office → /service/dental-implants
What a Dental Implant Is
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed surgically into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it has healed into the bone, a custom crown is attached on top — restoring the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth.
The Pros
Function and feel close to a natural tooth. Implants are fixed in the jaw and don't shift. You can eat anything you'd eat with natural teeth.
Bone preservation. Implants transmit chewing forces into the jaw the way a natural root does, which helps preserve bone volume and facial structure where a missing tooth would otherwise cause shrinkage.
Longest-lasting option. With good care, implants have a 10-year success rate of 95 to 98%. Many last a lifetime. Compare this to bridges (10 to 15 years) and partial dentures (5 to10 years).
No special daily care. You brush and floss an implant like a regular tooth — no adhesives, no soaking, no removable parts.
Doesn't damage neighboring teeth. Unlike a bridge, which requires shaving down the teeth on either side of the gap, an implant stands on its own.
The Cons
Higher up-front cost. A single implant with abutment and crown typically runs $3,500 to $5,500 in our area. Insurance coverage varies widely.
Multi-month timeline. Most implant cases take 4 to 6 months from start to finish. Complex cases involving bone grafts can take 9 to 12 months.
Requires minor surgery. Implant placement is done under local anesthesia and is generally well-tolerated, but it is a surgical procedure with the usual healing period and small risks.
Requires adequate bone. Patients who have been missing a tooth for years may have lost enough bone that graft is needed before placement.
Not ideal for smokers. Smoking significantly raises the risk of implant failure. We'll discuss this honestly at the consultation.
Alternatives to Consider
• Dental bridge. Faster and often less expensive up front, but requires preparing the neighboring teeth.
• Partial denture. Lowest cost, removable. Good for patients who can't have surgery.
• Doing nothing. Occasionally appropriate (wisdom teeth, some second molars). Usually not — gaps tend to lead to shifting and bone loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I'm a candidate?
A 3D scan and exam answers this. Most patients with healthy gums and reasonable bone are candidates.
Does insurance cover implants?
Some plans cover them like bridges. Some treat them as cosmetic and cover nothing. We verify benefits in advance.
Does the procedure hurt?
Local anesthesia is used. Most patients report soreness for one to two days, controlled with ibuprofen.
Schedule an Implant Consultation in Centennial
If you're weighing implants against other options, schedule a consultation at Christiansen Dental. We'll show you a 3D scan, walk through the realistic pros and cons for your situation, and give you a written estimate. Call (303) 790-9323 or book online.
About the Authors
Drs. Bart & James Christiansen, DDS are brothers practicing in Centennial, CO. Bart has been practicing since 1988 and James since 2009. They offer general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry for the whole family.
