Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can make eating and speaking difficult, lead to jawbone loss, and affect your self-confidence. At Roberts & Hall Dentistry in Twin Falls, we help patients restore their smiles and oral function with dental implants—the most advanced and natural-looking tooth replacement option available today.

Let’s explore how dental implants work, their long-term benefits, the procedure involved, and why the skill of your dental team matters for successful, lasting results.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, biocompatible titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once placed, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong, stable foundation for a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture.

Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are designed to stand independently, preserving the health of your surrounding teeth and bone.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

The dental implant process is multi-phased:

1. Comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning:
   Includes dental exams, digital imaging, and 3D scans to assess bone health and create a personalized treatment plan. 
2. Surgical implant placement:
   The titanium implant is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation. 
3. Healing and osseointegration:
   Over 3 to 6 months, the bone grows tightly around the implant, providing stable support. 
4. Abutment placement:
   A small connector is attached to the implant, serving as the attachment point for the restoration. 
5. Custom crown or restoration:
   A carefully crafted crown, bridge, or denture is placed, restoring function and aesthetics. 

Why Choose Dental Implants? Benefits That Go Beyond Looks

1. Restores Natural Function and Appearance

Dental implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth. Patients typically regain 90-100% of their original chewing power, allowing them to enjoy all types of foods with confidence.

2. Prevents Bone Loss by Stimulating the Jawbone

When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone no longer receives stimulation from chewing forces, leading to bone resorption. Studies show that up to 25% of bone loss can occur in the first year after tooth loss. Dental implants, when properly placed, mimic the natural roots by transferring chewing forces into the jawbone, stimulating bone growth and maintaining bone density and volume—preserving facial structure and preventing further bone deterioration.

3. Protects Adjacent Teeth and Oral Health

Unlike dental bridges that require the reduction of healthy adjacent teeth, implants do not affect neighboring teeth, preserving your natural smile and reducing the risk of future decay or dental complications.

4. Proven Long-Term Success Rates

Dental implants have one of the highest long-term success rates in dentistry. Studies show an implant survival rate of 94-98% over 10 years, with most patients enjoying their implants for decades. Success is defined by implant stability, absence of infection, bone preservation, and patient satisfaction.

When Is Bone Grafting or a Sinus Lift Needed?

Patients who have been missing teeth for an extended period or who have experienced bone loss may require bone grafting or sinus lifts to ensure a stable foundation for the implant.

• Bone grafting: Involves adding bone material (either synthetic or natural) to areas of insufficient bone mass. This improves the quality and quantity of bone, increasing the success rate of implant placement. 
• Sinus lift: Necessary for upper back teeth where the sinus cavity may be too close to the jawbone. The procedure gently raises the sinus floor and adds bone material, creating space for the implant. 

These procedures are safe, commonly performed, and critical for ensuring long-term implant success.

Detailed Cost Breakdown of Dental Implants

While dental implants represent an upfront investment, they are a cost-effective, long-term solution. A single dental implant, including all components, typically ranges from $3,500 to $5,500, depending on individual needs. This includes:

• Initial consultation and treatment planning. 
• 3D imaging and digital scans. 
• Surgical placement of the implant. 
• Healing appointments and follow-up care. 
• Abutment placement. 
• Custom crown, bridge, or denture. 

At Roberts & Hall Dentistry, we also offer financing options and can assist in navigating insurance coverage, which is increasingly recognizing the benefits of implants.

The Role of Expertise in Implant Success

The success of dental implants depends heavily on the experience and skill of the surgical and prosthetic dental teams. Proper planning, precise surgical technique, and aesthetic restoration all contribute to long-term success and reduce risks such as implant failure, nerve damage, or poor aesthetics.

At Roberts & Hall Dentistry, our team utilizes advanced 3D imaging, guided surgery, and works closely with specialists when needed to ensure optimal outcomes. Our patient-centered approach focuses on safety, precision, and aesthetics, ensuring your implant looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Understanding and Preventing Peri-implantitis

While dental implants don’t decay, they are still vulnerable to peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease around the implant. This occurs when plaque and bacteria infect the tissues surrounding the implant, leading to bone loss and implant failure if untreated.

Preventing peri-implantitis includes:

• Meticulous daily brushing and flossing. 
• Regular professional cleanings and dental exams. 
• Periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months for patients with a history of gum disease. 
• Early intervention at any sign of bleeding, swelling, or discomfort around the implant. 

Just like natural teeth, dental implants require lifelong care and professional monitoring.

Restore Your Smile, Function, and Confidence Today

Dental implants offer the closest thing to regaining your natural teeth, restoring your ability to smile, eat, and speak confidently. They also support your long-term oral and general health by maintaining jawbone density and protecting surrounding teeth.

If you’re considering dental implants or exploring options for missing teeth, schedule a consultation at Roberts & Hall Dentistry in Twin Falls. Our experienced team will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and design a personalized treatment plan to help you enjoy a complete, healthy smile for life.