Why Excel

Dental Implants

If you’ve recently faced the challenges of an injury or illness that took a toll on your oral health, there’s good news. The path to restoring your once-beautiful smile is now within reach. In fact, with the magic of dental implants, it’s possible not only to regain your previous smile but to potentially unveil an even more radiant one. Dental implants offer a remarkable solution for those who’ve experienced tooth loss. Whether it’s a single tooth or several teeth in a row that need replacing, there are multiple options available to help you reclaim your confident, beaming smile.

How do Dental Implants Work?

How do Dental Implants Work?

A dental implant is like a small metal post, usually made of titanium, that takes the place of the missing root of a tooth. Your dentist will then add a new tooth on top of this post, which can either be fixed in place permanently or taken out if needed. Permanent replacement teeth are more stable and feel very much like your natural teeth. Discover the transformation dental implants can bring to your smile.

An ideal candidate for dental implants:

  • Is a non-smoker
  • Has maintained good oral health
  • Has healthy gums with no signs of gum disease

Single or Multiple Dental Implants

Dental implants are incredibly adaptable. If you’re missing just one tooth, a single implant and a replacement tooth can solve the issue. For several missing teeth in a row, a few well-placed implants can provide strong support for a permanent bridge. Likewise, if you’ve lost all your teeth, a complete bridge or denture can be securely attached in your mouth using the right number of implants.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures and Bridges

Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants don’t just sit on top; they become a part of you. This ensures they feel stable and natural, just like your own teeth. You’ll regain the confidence to eat and smile without worry. What’s more, implants are tough cookies with a powerful biting force. They don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support, which is great news for your overall oral health. Plus, they’re built to last a lifetime, while bridges typically give you around seven to ten years, even less if a root canal is needed.

Taking Care of Your Dental Implants

Treat your new dental implants as you would your natural teeth. Give them the care they deserve by brushing and flossing at least twice daily. Don’t forget to schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. The more diligent you are in caring for your implants, the better their chances of serving you for a lifetime.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about dental care

Find quick answers to common questions about our dental services, procedures, and patient care in our FAQ section.

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once in place, a replacement tooth (crown) is attached on top, giving you a natural-looking and fully functional smile.

Ideal candidates are non-smokers with good overall oral health, healthy gums, and no signs of gum disease. If you’ve lost one or more teeth due to injury or illness, you may qualify. A consultation at Excel Dental will help determine if implants are right for you.

Yes. Dental implants are highly versatile. A single implant replaces one tooth, while several strategically placed implants can anchor a permanent bridge for multiple missing teeth in a row. If all teeth are missing, implants can also support a full bridge or denture.

Unlike dentures and bridges that rest on top of the gums or rely on neighboring teeth, dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone. This makes them feel more stable and natural, preserves surrounding teeth, and gives you a stronger biting force. Implants are also designed to last a lifetime, whereas bridges typically last 7–10 years.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so most patients experience minimal discomfort during placement. Some soreness and swelling after the procedure is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Excel Dental prioritizes your comfort throughout the entire process.

Both options exist. Permanent implants are fixed in place and feel most like natural teeth. Removable implant-supported dentures can be taken out for cleaning. Your dentist at Excel Dental will recommend the best option based on your specific needs.

Excel Dental offers dental implant services across nine Massachusetts locations: Lowell, Billerica, Methuen, Haverhill, Everett, Chelsea, Lynn, Revere and Bridge St. Late hours and Saturday appointments are available, making it easy to fit treatment into your schedule.

The full dental implant process generally takes 3 to 9 months, depending on your individual situation. Here’s a general timeline:

  • Consultation & planning — 1 visit
  • Implant post placement — Surgical visit
  • Healing & osseointegration (bone fusion) — 3 to 6 months
  • Crown/restoration placement — Final visit

 
If a tooth extraction or bone grafting is needed beforehand, the process may take a bit longer. Excel Dental will give you a personalized timeline during your consultation.

Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure. Quitting or reducing smoking before and after treatment greatly improves success rates.

Yes, Excel Dental is in-network with the majority of dental PPO insurance plans and accepts MassHealth (Medicaid)

Here’s what to do:

  • Call your nearest Excel Dental location and provide your insurance details
  • Our team will verify your coverage before your appointment
  • We’ll walk you through what is and isn’t covered under your plan

Don’t have insurance? Excel Dental’s team can also discuss flexible payment options to make your care affordable. Visit ourexceldental.com/patients for more information.