Losing a tooth can impact more than just your smile. It can change how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Thankfully, modern dentistry has brought us a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution. Dental implants are the go-to option for long-term tooth replacement, with over three million Americans already benefiting from them — a number that is growing by 500,000 every year. 

But before you move forward with this restorative dental treatment, it’s important to understand what it involves and if you’re a good candidate. Factors such as bone density, gum health, and even daily habits like smoking can all affect your outcome.

Read on to get answers to the most common questions people have about implants from the best dentist in Hillsborough so that you can make informed, confident decisions about your dental care.

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants? 

Being a good candidate for dental implants is less about your age and more about your overall health, especially the health of your gums and jawbone. To ensure you’re a good candidate for implants, you’ll need the following: 

  • Healthy gums, free of active gum disease or tooth infections. 
  • Sufficient jawbone density to securely hold the implant post, or willingness to undergo bone grafting if needed.
  • Good overall health, free from health conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders. 
  • Commitment to good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. 
  • Tobacco-free lifestyle, as smoking can slow healing and raise the risk of implant failure. 
  • Realistic expectations, including an understanding of the process, time frame, and maintenance required for a successful outcome.

How Does Bone Density Affect Dental Implants?

Bone density plays a big role in whether dental implants will work for you. After a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can begin to shrink or weaken over time because it’s no longer being used. If there isn’t enough healthy bone, the implant might not stay in place properly or heal the way it should. That’s why dentists use imaging tools like 3D scans or dental X-rays to get a clear look at your bone structure before starting the implant process. If the bone is too thin or soft, a bone graft is a common solution. This procedure adds bone to the area, giving the implant a strong, stable foundation so you can still move forward with treatment.

What Lifestyle Habits Could Affect Implant Success?

Your daily habits have a big impact on how well a dental implant heals and lasts over time: 

  • Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors, as it slows down the body’s ability to heal and increases the chance that the implant will fail. If you smoke, quitting before and after the procedure can make a major difference in the outcome. Good oral hygiene is also essential. 
  • Just like natural teeth, implants need regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups to prevent infection and keep your gums healthy. 
  • Another habit to watch for is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Constant pressure from clenching or grinding can weaken the implant or damage the crown. If this is a concern, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your smile.

What’s the Process Like for Getting Dental Implants?

Getting dental implants is a step-by-step process that starts with a personalized consultation. During this visit, your dentist will review your medical history, take digital images like dental X-rays or 3D digital scans, and create a custom treatment plan based on your needs. 

Once you're ready to move forward, the implant, a small titanium post, is placed into your jawbone, where it needs time to heal and bond with the bone. This healing period usually takes a few months and is important for making sure the implant stays secure long-term. After the bone has healed, a permanent dental crown is placed on top to complete your smile. 

In some cases, people may qualify for same-day implants, where a temporary tooth is placed right after the implant post, but that depends on your overall health and bone structure. 

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implants can be more expensive up front than other tooth replacement options, but they’re also a long-term investment in your oral health. With proper care, implants can last for decades, making them a cost-effective choice over time compared to dental bridges or dentures that may need to be replaced. Beyond their durability, implants offer important health benefits by helping preserve the jawbone, preventing nearby teeth from shifting, and making it easier to chew and speak with confidence. 

Many dental offices understand that affordability matters, so they often provide flexible payment plans or financing options to help make treatment more manageable. It’s also worth checking if your insurance covers part of the procedure. At Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer special pricing for dental implants for uninsured patients. 

Finding the Best Dentist in Hillsborough for Dental Implants

When you're ready to replace missing teeth with a long-lasting solution, our team at Promenade Smiles is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer a full range of implant options, from single-tooth replacements to full-arch restorations using the All-on-4 technique, all tailored to your unique needs. 

Every treatment plan begins with a detailed evaluation using advanced 3D imaging, so your implants not only look natural but function just like your real teeth. Our board-certified implant specialists prioritize both precision and comfort, offering sedation options and efficient procedures that fit your lifestyle. 

Whether you’re looking for traditional implants or are interested in our teeth-in-a-day service, we’re committed to making your experience smooth, supportive, and focused on results you’ll love.

Ready to get your smile and confidence back with help from the best dentist in Hillsborough for dental implants?