Dental Implants

Dental Implants Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

Dental Implants Presentation

What are dental implants?

A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.

Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.  A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

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Man with a great smile

“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Eckert, Dr. Harsha, Dr. Maxwell, Dr. Cofer and Dr. Johnson are sometimes able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of twelve weeks of healing time before permanent replacement teeth are placed by your dentist. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist.  Drs. Eckert, Harsha, Maxwell, Cofer or Johnson performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.  The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Questions About Dental Implants

Are dental implants safe?

Yes, titanium and zirconia dental implants are safe. They have been used for years to support crowns and dental prostheses to replace missing teeth. They fuse to the jawbone to preserve the bone and facial structure.

Do dental implants feel like natural teeth?

Yes, unlike dentures, which can slip, click, and come loose at inopportune times, dental implants are permanent and never shift. They feel and function like your natural teeth. They do not come loose or need to be relined or adjusted; you cannot get seeds or food particles caught beneath them.

What is the success rate of dental implant surgery?

Between 95 and 98%. The success rate is higher for patients who do not smoke and have not had periodontal disease.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

Implant surgery is done either with a local anesthetic or under IV sedation. Once the anesthesia has worn off, you may experience mild pain and swelling for two to three days, after which both will subside. Most patients tell us the pain is not as great as they feared. The pain and swelling can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.

Will I miss work to get dental implants?

Most people’s day-to-day lives are not disrupted during the healing process. You will most likely miss a single day of work if you get a single dental implant. If you get several implants, you may need to take two or three days off but will be able to return to normal activities soon after that.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone in good health who is missing teeth or a tooth is a candidate for dental implants. You need enough jawbone to support a dental implant; otherwise, you may need a bone graft first to build up the area. Some individuals may have pre-existing conditions that could rule them out, including hemophilia, uncontrolled diabetes, certain autoimmune disorders, some forms of heart disease, cancer, history of radiation treatments, or certain bone density medications.

How long do dental implants last?

An implant should last a lifetime with proper care. The visible part of the tooth replacement (a crown or prosthesis) can last twenty years or more. It can be replaced without disturbing the implant. To ensure your implants and prostheses last as long as possible, brush and floss daily and have regular dental checkups.

Will I need bone grafts for dental implants?

It depends on how much jawbone material is available to hold the implant. You will not need a bone graft if you have sufficient width and bone density. If the jawbone has thinned, you may need grafting and a healing period before the titanium implant can be placed. However, recent developments have led to new types of placements that do not require as much jawbone material. We will evaluate your situation and determine the best route for your situation.

Is there an individual implant for each missing tooth?

If you have one missing tooth or a few missing teeth, you will most likely get an individual dental implant with a crown attached to each one. However, if all of your upper or lower teeth are missing, you may get between two and six implants in the jaw to hold a complete arch of replacement teeth that resembles a denture but is held permanently in place by the implants. We will discuss your options at your consultation.


Coastal Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

5 out of 5 stars based on 15 Dental Implants reviews.

Patient Review by Carla P

Great experience,

- Carla P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Clifford V

Everyone there was great!!

- Clifford V

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Ann Marie S

Was referred to Dr Cofer for an implant. Was called the next day for an appointment. Met with Dr Confer & Karen, who both put me at ease immediately. The offices are clean & all precautions are taken by staff and other patients. I'm just so grateful this is where I was referred, I just feel the staff really cares about you, everything is explained, and you feel comfortable. There is no rushing, and great results. If you are looking for a great Oral Surgeon, and staff that are compassionate please go to Dr Cofer & Karen!

- Ann Marie S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Kenneth K

When my dentist determined I need a sinus lift and double implant, I was referred to Dr. Reece Cofer of the Coastal Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. During my initial appointment, Dr. Cofer took X-Rays and meticulously spelled out to me the procedure he would be undertaking, which consisted of two Endosteal implant placements, a sinus and a sinus lift with a bone graft. I left the office with a full understanding and knowledge about the procedure, thanks to Dr. Cofer's comprehensive consultation. Three weeks later I returned to the office for my procedure. Everything about Coastal Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is top rate and professional. Upon my arrival, the lady behind the counter provided me a warm greeting and was extremely courteous. Within moments of my arrival I was called back to the room where the procedure would take place. Dr. Cofer again walked me through the procedure he would be following, meticulously explaining each step and on two occasions asked me if I had any questions. His assistants, Nurse Karen, Kim, and Ashley were extremely kind and courteous as they prepped me for the procedure, answering questions and setting a positive atmosphere in the dental room. Dr. Cofer was able to perform multiple procedures including the sinus lift, bone graft, and Endosteal Implant Placement in the one appointment. Every aspect of the procedure was pain free, and throughout the process, Dr. Cofer and his staff were consummate professionals. Later that afternoon I received a personal call from Dr. Cofer, asking how I was doing and explaining post-procedure directions to me. I am grateful for the wonderful care I received from Dr. Cofer, Nurse Karen, Kim, and Ashley. They are all professionals in the truest sense of the word, and I highly recommend Dr. Cofer and the Coastal Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Group to any prospective customers. You won't find more caring and capable dental professionals anywhere!

- Kenneth K

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Shirley C

I have been a patient of Dr. Edward Eckert since he did my first dental implant in 2007. At the age of 86 I returned this year without hesitation based on my past experience. I am in the middle of my second implant and am happy to share that Dr. Eckert and his staff have treated me personally and professionally with great care, explained the procedure to me in a way I could understand, provided excellent follow-up and I have had no post-surgical pain! This very satisfied patient would recommend Coastal Carolina Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery to anyone who requires this level of dental services.

- Shirley C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Laurie B

I would like to recognize Dr. Ed Eckert for his high level of professionalism, expertise and great patient care. I had a root canal performed years ago in which the dentist had cracked my tooth. After years of dealing with this damaged tooth, I was told it was necessary to have it replaced with a dental implant. I had heard great things about Dr. Eckert over the years, and so I had my case referred to him. I was nervous about having my first dental implant, but after Dr. Eckert spoke to me about the procedure, I knew there was nothing to fear. His calm demeanor and kind words made me feel at ease. If there was any doubt left about having the procedure done, his assistant, Karen Hasara quelled it. I cannot imagine a better team to have performed surgery on me. They worked seamlessly during the procedure and Karen was there for me from start to finish. I cannot thank them for taking such great care of me.

- Laurie B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Kim D

I have absolutely had a great experience. I had no anxiety going to get work done with Dr. Maxwell, he is so calming and explains everything. He has all the updated top notch equipment. There is very little wait time. I've had 2 procedures done here and would recommend to everyone. Just wish Dr Maxwell did everything to finalize my implants, he is so good and his office is excellent great staff. ...... my anxiety levels will jump sky high having to go to another dentist to complete the implant procedure 🙁 Thank you Dr. Maxwell, for a great job!

- Kim D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Sara B

Great experience. Staff and physician were great!

- Sara B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Sue K

Professional, office extremely clean, and Dr Maxwell is very thorough and kind!

- Sue K

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Edith D

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- Edith D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Lauren C

Dr Maxwell is fabulous!

- Lauren C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Florence D

I feel at home here. Treated like family. Dr. Maxwell is excellent! I love Crystal!

- Florence D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Kathy L

Staff is friendly professional. Dr maxwell is great and definitely easy on the eyes!!!

- Kathy L

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by PBHS T

I love this practice!

- PBHS T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by PBHS T

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- PBHS T

5 out of 5 stars on