Dental Implants in Pittsburgh | Restore Your Smile with Confidence

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. They consist of a small titanium or zirconia post surgically inserted into your jawbone, functioning like a natural tooth root. Once healed, the implant is topped with a custom-made crown, providing a strong, natural-looking solution that blends seamlessly with your smile.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Permanent Tooth Replacement: Implants are designed to last for decades with proper care.

• Natural Look & Feel: Custom crowns match your existing teeth in shape and color.

• Preserve Jawbone Health: Unlike dentures or bridges, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.

• No Impact on Surrounding Teeth: Implants stand independently, preserving nearby teeth.

• Improved Functionality: Eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

“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

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Eichner, Dr. Smiga, Dr. Davies, Dr. Robertson and Dr. Hartman are able to place single stage implants. These dental implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the dental 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. Eichner, Smiga, Davies, Robertson and Hartman perform the actual dental 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 dental implant process.

Your Dental Implant Journey

1. Initial Consultation & Imaging
   We’ll evaluate your oral health using advanced 3D imaging to assess bone structure and determine the best treatment plan.

2. Preparatory Procedures (if needed)
   If necessary, we may perform bone grafting, tooth extraction, or sinus lifts to prepare your mouth for implant placement.

3. Implant Placement
   The implant post is surgically placed into your jaw under local anesthesia or sedation.

4. Healing & Osseointegration
   Over 3–6 months, your implant naturally bonds with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.

5. Abutment & Final Restoration
   Once healed, an abutment and permanent crown are attached to complete your new tooth.

The Dental Implants Surgical Procedure

The procedure to place a dental implant takes 30 to 60 minutes for one dental implant and only 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. The number of appointments and time required, vary from patient to patient. The surgeon will bring great precision and attention to the details of your case.

Prior to surgery, you may receive antibiotics and for greater comfort, intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas). These options are discussed with you at your consultation appointment. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area where the implant will be placed.

When you are comfortable, the surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue to reveal the bone, creates space using special instruments, and gently inserts the titanium implant. The top of this dental implant is often visible through the gum. Sometimes it is better in the early stages of healing to have the dental implant covered by the gum tissue.

1. Normal

2. Tooth Loss

3. Healed Bone

4. Implant Placed

5. Healing

6. Implant Restored

The Healing Process After Dental Implants

Recovery and Aftercare

• Minimal Downtime: Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.

• Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods during the healing phase.

• Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss as normal, and attend regular check-ups to maintain implant health.

• Pain Management: Mild soreness is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does getting a dental implant hurt?
No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Any post-operative discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

2. How long does the entire dental implant process take?
The timeline varies depending on your treatment plan. On average, it takes 3–12 months from initial consultation to final restoration.

3. How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown may need to be replaced every 10–15 years due to normal wear.

4. Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults in good health are candidates. Bone density, gum health, and overall health will be evaluated to determine your eligibility.

5. What if I don’t have enough jawbone?
If bone loss is present, we may recommend bone grafting or specialized implants like zygomatic implants to ensure successful placement.

6. Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking can impact healing and increase the risk of implant failure. We’ll evaluate your health and may recommend quitting before treatment.

7. What do dental implants cost?
Costs vary depending on the number of implants and preparatory procedures. Our team will provide a clear estimate and offer financing options to make treatment accessible.

Why Choose Us for Dental Implants?

• Expert Surgeons: Our board-certified oral surgeons have advanced training in implant placement and bone reconstruction.

• Advanced Technology: We use 3D imaging and guided implant surgery for precision and predictable outcomes.

• Personalized Treatment: Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific health, goals, and budget.

• Comprehensive Care: From consultation through recovery, we provide complete support and transparent communication.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Ready to replace missing teeth and regain your confidence? Contact us to schedule a personalized consultation with one of our experienced oral surgeons. We’ll guide you through every step of the process and help you restore your smile with lasting results.

Are You in Need of Oral & Maxillofacial Treatment?

You can trust Drs. Eichner, Smiga, Davies, Robertson and Hartman to provide you with outstanding care. Contact us to learn more about your treatment options.

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