HOW DO DENTAL IMPLANTS REPLACE TEETH?
Dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots most often made of titanium, a biocompatible material. A dentist surgically places an implant in the jawbone. Over the course of four to six months, the implant will fuse with the bone tissue and become part of the patient's anatomy in a process called osseointegration. This process is what makes dental implants such a stable base for replacement teeth.
Once osseointegration is complete, it's time to place the custom-made dental restorations: dental crowns, dental bridges, or dentures. They're held fast to the implants using connector pieces called abutments.
Our Boston practice is known for the beauty and durability of our dental restorations. We have an in-house lab, so every stage of the implant process happens under one convenient roof.
So what makes dental implants
a great treatment option?
Dental Implants Offer Unrivaled Longevity and Stability
Long-Lasting Solution
With proper oral hygiene, dental implants can last 40 years or longer. While you may need to replace your restoration after 10 to 15 years, the titanium implants themselves can provide a lifetime of benefits.
Improved Jaw Health
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement solution that prevents jawbone atrophy after tooth loss. By receiving an implant-supported restoration from Dr. Stein, you can avoid the aged, sunken look caused by a shrinking jawbone, and prevent further bone deterioration.
Restorations Supported By Dental Implants Multiple Options to Meet Your Individual Needs
Dentures
If you are missing most or all of your teeth, implant-supported dentures are a great option to replace a full arch.
Bridges
If you're missing several consecutive teeth, an implant-supported dental bridge can fill the gap in your smile.
Crowns
A crown supported by a dental implant can replace a single missing tooth, giving you back your full smile.
Schedule an Implant Consultation at Our Boston, MA, Dental Office
Dr. Stein has been providing dental care to Boston patients for more than 30 years. When patients come to our practice, they can have their dental implants placed and restored at one state-of-the-art location. We can help patients who are missing just one tooth as well as those who need a full-arch denture. We use advanced technology and effective techniques to provide patients with long-lasting results that benefit virtually every aspect of their lives.
Our caring team works with dental implant patients each day. We have the advanced technology hands-on experience needed to go above and beyond patient expectations.
To schedule a consultation, contact our dental practice online or call us at:
(617) 227-6076
5 Stars From the Boston Area "An absolute privilege to be his patient."
I had an absolutely amazing experience with Dr. Stein. He was able to fit me in to his busy schedule on extremely short notice and the office staff were more than accommodating. His work speaks for itself and the amount of compliments I’ve received from even other dentists has been a testament to his work.
View on GoogleThere is no better practice in dentistry than the one of Drs. James and Brett Stein. Professionalism, friendliness and unwavering support are the hallmarks of this practice. Dr. Brett Stein is a crown genius - I cannot say it any other way. I am very lucky. It is an absolute privilege to be his patient.
View on GoogleInsurance and Financing: What Dental Implant Patients Need to Know
Naturally, the first question most implant patients have is whether their treatment will be covered by insurance. Dental implants and abutments are generally not covered by dental insurance, but the restorations they support are. Our practice in Boston accepts most types of dental insurance. We'll be happy to help you maximize your coverage for your implant-supported crowns, bridges, or dentures.
We also accept third-party financing from several lenders so our patients don't feel burdened by out-of-pocket costs. You can apply for an interest-free or low-interest loan (depending on your credit score), repayable in monthly installments. This choice has made goals a reality for a great many of our dental implant patients. If you think financing could make this solution more accessible to you, we're ready to help you find the best solution for your needs.
A Fellow Boston Clinician
Recommends Our Practice
"As a fellow clinician, I know that reviews are often a source of anguish, so it’s my honor to give a 10 STAR review... I had a front tooth knocked out as a teenager & ever since it’s been a source of stress & embarrassment as I have a huge smile that is ever present on my happy face... Dr Stein created a successful prosthetic dental plan to not just fix but actually improve my smile... I literally cried when I saw the final outcome... I now smile with confidence & the knowledge my smile is perfect!" Dr. Brian Borquin
Leading Implant Systems Improved Precision and Better Outcomes
Dr. Stein is formally trained in the Straumann and Nobel BioCare implant systems. These advanced tools allow him to develop an exceptionally precise surgical plan with CAD/CAM technology, which will be used during your procedure to place the titanium implants in the best possible position. Optimally placed implants and abutments can help reduce the risk of complications and improve the longevity of your implants.
An In-House Lab Equipped With the Latest Technology
Our Boston practice also has its very own in-house dental laboratory. This means our dentists can create temporary and permanent dental restorations right here at our office, often on the same day of your appointment.
Unlike many dentists, Drs. James and Brett Stein have special laboratory training in the design and manufacture of restorations. They can customize everything about your crown, bridge, or denture, from the shape and fit to the precise shade that will work within your smile.
As an implant patient at the practice of James M. Stein, DMD, even your temporary tooth will be crafted for durability and an exceptionally natural look.
Our Father–Son Approach to Dentistry Means Seamless Care for Patients
Dr. James Stein and Dr. Brett Stein have a shared goal—providing the finest dental services available in the Boston area. Our father-and-son dentists view each day on the job as an opportunity to grow together and make a real difference in the lives of our patients.
When you work with our team, you'll have two highly experienced and passionate dentists overseeing every stage of your treatment plan, from the first moment you visit for a consultation to the day you leave our office with a complete smile again. Our Boston team prioritizes communication and carefully plans treatment collaboratively so patients receive efficient care and beautiful results that last.
Trust your oral health to the Drs. Stein and see what dentistry was meant to be like.
You Don't Have To Live With Tooth Loss Call our Boston dental practice today
Thanks to advancements in the field of dentistry, you don't have to live with a gap in your smile or settle for traditional dentures that require messy adhesives and are prone to slipping. Titanium implants can restore your smile and provide a stable and secure foundation for your restoration, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence. Implants can also help keep your jawbone healthy by providing the stimulation it needs.
Don't live life with tooth loss and risk your jawbone health. Call our Boston practice or request a consultation using our online form today to start your journey to a beautifully restored smile.
(617) 227-6076
"I have been a patient of Dr. James Stein since June 2021. At that time, having recently moved to Boston after twenty years in a foreign country, I had a number of outstanding dental issues. I am extremely happy with all the dental work that has been performed by Dr. Stein, and I have total confidence in him and his colleagues. The office is very professional, but also welcoming and relaxed." Kathleen F.
Preparatory Treatments
to Improve Your Candidacy
Extractions and Periodontal Care
Implants require a healthy foundation. If periodontal disease or tooth decay has been detected, patients may need to undergo preparatory procedures to improve their oral health before having implants placed. This may involve tooth extractions or periodontal treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove bacteria.
Bone Graft
In cases of jawbone recession, you may also require bone graft surgery in order to restore lost tissue and create a more stable foundation for implants. Your dentist will use natural or synthetic grafting material to replenish the affected area. Bone graft surgery will add four to nine months to the overall treatment timeline.
Sinus Lift
If you are missing a tooth or several teeth in the upper jaw, you may require a sinus lift to create a solid foundation for implants. Your dentist will gently lift the maxillary sinus out of the way to make room for grafting material. This procedure can require four to nine months of healing before implants can be placed.
Learn If You Are a Candidate Request a Dental Implant Consultation
To discuss your replacement options for a missing tooth or teeth, schedule an appointment at our dental office in Boston, MA. At your consultation, Dr. Stein will review your medical history and thoroughly examine your teeth and jaw with advanced imaging technology. Based on the results, he can determine if implants are the right course of action for you. He can also determine where the implants and abutments should be placed for the best results. Based on his findings and the type of restoration you choose, Dr. Stein will prepare an implant treatment timeline to fit your needs.
Call or request an initial consultation online today at our Boston, MA, practice to see if implants are the best course of treatment for you!
(617) 227-6076
"From the initial consultation through to the appointments, the service and the quality of Dr. James Stein's dental work was top notch. Dr. Stein's calm approach, attention to detail and ease of communication made my major dental work a breeze." Calvin P.
the dental implant process explained
Treatment Will Take Several Months
A Closer Look at Implant Placement
Discouraged by the timeline for implant-supported restorations?
Dental Implants Require Longer Treatment But Provide Unparalleled Support
Many patients at our Boston, MA, dentistry office are concerned about the additional time and cost required for dental implants. While the process does take several months, you can typically receive temporary crowns, bridges, or dentures during the healing period to fill the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. Additionally, the value of dental implants cannot be overstated and should be considered an investment in your quality of life. Because this dentistry option also replaces the tooth roots, implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures can provide you with the best possible results, allowing you to achieve the closest alternative to your natural teeth.
Innovative Denture Placement Methods Explore All-on-4, All-on-6, and All-on-X
If you're missing most or all of the teeth along a dental arch but your jaw is too weak to support traditional dental implants, you may be a great candidate for the All-on-4® method or one of its variations. In this technique, the two posterior implants are placed at an angle to make maximum contact with the existing jaw tissue. This allows many patients to skip preparatory bone grafting and immediately qualify for treatment. Take a look at your options:
All-on-4
All-on-4 uses just four dental implants to support a full denture. The strategic angle of the two implants at the back of the jaw improves stability for patients who have experienced some degree of bone loss.
All-on-6
Compared to All-on-4, All-on-6 uses two additional implants for extra support. This ensures a stable base for a denture in patients who have moderate jaw atrophy but don't want to undergo grafting.
All-on-X
This method is customizable, and up to eight implants can be used to achieve maximum stability for a denture. Your dentist will assess your degree of bone loss to determine how many implants will be right for your care.
A 3D View of Titanium Dental Implants
Possible Side Effects
You can expect to experience minor bleeding, swelling, and bruising following surgery. All of these side effects can be easily managed with proper care.
Swelling
It is normal to have some swelling after implant placement. Ice packs applied against your cheeks can help reduce swelling, pain, and bruising, especially in the first 48 hours following surgery. Keeping your head elevated while you sleep can also ease swelling.
Pain or Discomfort
Some patients manage their post-op discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications. However, Dr. Stein can also prescribe pain medications.
Bleeding
Gauze can be used to stop bleeding gums. If the bleeding becomes excessive or will not stop, call Dr. Stein immediately.Follow-Up Appointments
One to two weeks after surgery, your stitches will be removed. During your recovery period, you will attend the necessary follow-up appointments at our Boston dental practice so your implant recovery and progress can be monitored by our dentist. This is important to ensure the site is healing properly and that the implants and bone are fusing together in a process called osseointegration.
Prolonging the Lifespan
of Your Implants and Restorations
Follow these tips to help your implants and restorations last as long as possible:
Choose an Experienced Dentist
Choosing an experienced dentist such as Dr. Stein can significantly lower your risk of complications.
Daily Hygiene
Cleaning your dental implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures is critical. This process is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. You can prolong the life of your implants and prosthetics by brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash.
Interdental Brushes
Patients with bridges and dentures can benefit from the use of interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas under the appliance.
Routine Check-Ups
In addition, patients should visit a dentist every six months or more for a check-up and cleaning. During this appointment, we will check for signs of wear on their abutments and prosthesis.
A Dental Implant Patient's Testimonial
"Was born without two teeth and replacements kept falling out. I came to Dr. Stein for a more permanent solution and to simultaneously fix a crossover that had developed in my front teeth. Braces would have taken 2 to 3 years and I did not want braces at 30 years old. Dr. Stein created a permanent bridge fixing the crossover in 3 visits. Smile looks great and been getting lots of compliments." Sean M.
Emergency Dental
Services Available
If you have damaged or knocked out a tooth, there is a chance it can be saved. While we can replace the missing tooth with an implant and dental crown, our dentists will do everything they can to save your natural tooth first. Getting dental care as soon as possible can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth, which is why we provide a 24-hour answering service. Our team of specialists can advise you over the phone on how to handle a missing or damaged tooth and schedule you to see our dentist as soon as possible. Call us for emergency care.
Additional Treatments That May Benefit Your Smile
Full Mouth Reconstruction
If you have extensive tooth loss, dental damage, or tooth decay, a full mouth reconstruction can combine multiple treatments to address a combination of issues impacting your oral function. Dental implants paired with other restorative treatments can completely rehabilitate your mouth and restore the function, health, and appearance of your smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry
If your issues are mainly aesthetic and you only need a few teeth replaced, your dental implants and custom restorations can be combined with cosmetic treatments to improve the overall appearance of your smile. Treatments may include teeth whitening or porcelain veneers to create the dazzling smile of your dreams.
"Always had my best interests at heart." Our Boston Patients Come First
Dr. Stein is a professional with exceptional expertise in dental care. I was thoroughly impressed by his artistry and meticulous approach to the treatment, which surpassed my expectations. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking top-quality dental care from a skilled professional.
View on GoogleDr. Stein did an excellent job fixing my front teeth. Many dentists told me that my situation was very difficult because the bone had recessed. They told me that the front teeth would be long, but Dr. Stein exceeded my expectations. At one point Dr. Stein wasn't completely happy with how the teeth were completed by the lab and sent them back. I felt like he always had my best interests at heart.
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