78 Main St A, Netcong, NJ 07857
Permanent Solutions for Missing Teeth
Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a tooth root, and a custom-made crown is added on top for a seamless, natural-looking smile. Implants are an excellent option for replacing one or multiple missing teeth, offering a level of stability and longevity that bridges and dentures cannot fully match.
At Gibney Dental Associates in Netcong, NJ, dental implants have become the preferred solution for most patients missing one or more teeth, largely because they replace both the visible tooth and the root beneath it, something no other restorative option is able to do.
Procedure Duration: Several months, accounting for placement and healing
Sedation Options: Local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide), anti-anxiety medication
Why Patients Choose Dental Implants Over Other Options
- A permanent, long-lasting solution built to function like a natural tooth
- Improves speech and eating ability compared to removable dentures
- Feels and functions like a natural tooth, without the awkwardness of a removable appliance
- No need for adhesives or special maintenance beyond normal brushing and flossing
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw by replacing the tooth root, not just the visible crown
- Supports overall oral health by keeping surrounding teeth properly supported and in place
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants may be a good option if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth and want a permanent, fixed replacement
- Have adequate jawbone density to support an implant, or are open to a bone graft if needed
- Are in good general health to undergo minor oral surgery
- Have healthy gums, free of active or untreated gum disease
- Want to avoid the bone loss that can occur with missing teeth over time
A comprehensive exam, including imaging of your jawbone, is the best way to determine if you are a good candidate for implants.
Types of Dental Implants
Not every implant case is the same, and the right approach depends on how many teeth are missing, your bone density, and your long-term goals.
Single Tooth Implant
A single titanium post topped with a custom crown, used to replace one missing tooth without affecting the healthy teeth on either side of the gap.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Several individual implants placed to replace multiple missing teeth in different areas of the mouth, each restored with its own crown for a natural, independent fit.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Instead of an implant for every missing tooth, two or more implants anchor a bridge that spans several missing teeth in a row, reducing the number of surgical sites needed while still providing a fixed, permanent result.
Implant Dentures (All-on-4 or Snap-On)
For patients missing most or all of their teeth in an arch, a full denture can be anchored to as few as four strategically placed implants, offering far greater stability than a traditional removable denture. This can be done as a fixed, All-on-4 style restoration or a removable snap-on denture, depending on your preferences and candidacy.
During your consultation, we will evaluate the number of teeth you are missing, your bone density, and your goals to recommend which type of implant treatment will provide the most durable, natural-feeling result.
From Consultation to a Complete New Tooth
Getting a dental implant is a longer process than most restorative treatments, since it involves surgical placement and a healing period before the final restoration is attached.
01.
Initial Consultation and Planning
A thorough exam, including imaging of your jawbone, determines whether you are a candidate for dental implants and helps plan the exact placement of the implant.
02.
Implant Placement
A titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone at the planned location, serving as the foundation for your future tooth.
03.
Healing and Osseointegration
The implant fuses with the surrounding bone over 3 to 6 months, a process called osseointegration that gives the implant its exceptional strength and stability.
04.
Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, a custom crown, or in some cases a bridge, is attached to the implant, completing a natural-looking, fully functional new tooth.
Recovering After Implant Placement
Some swelling, mild discomfort, and minor bruising are normal in the days following implant surgery, and are typically well managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a day or two, though strenuous exercise and certain foods should be avoided during the initial healing period. Keeping the surgical site clean without disturbing it, and closely following your post-op instructions, gives the implant the best chance to heal properly and successfully fuse with the jawbone.
Insurance, Financing, and Membership Options for Dental Implants
Dental insurance coverage for implants varies significantly by plan, and some plans cover a portion of the implant post, the crown, or both, while others offer limited or no coverage since implants are sometimes classified differently than other restorative treatments. Our team verifies your specific benefits before treatment so you have a clear picture of expected costs. Because implants represent a significant investment, we also offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit to help spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. Our in-house membership plan includes discounted pricing on select treatments that may apply throughout your implant process as well.
Ready to Replace a Missing Tooth for Good?
If a missing tooth has been affecting your confidence, your bite, or your ability to eat comfortably, dental implants offer the most permanent, natural-feeling solution available. Schedule a consultation at Gibney Dental Associates to find out if you are a candidate.