What Are Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small post that is placed into the jawbone to act like the root of a missing tooth. After the implant heals and bonds with the bone, a new tooth (or teeth) is attached on top. The final tooth is made to match your natural smile as closely as possible in shape and color. Dental implants are often made from titanium or similar materials that work well with the body. Over time, the bone can grow around the implant. This process is called osseointegration. It helps the implant stay firm, which is one reason implants can feel more like natural teeth than other tooth replacement options. An implant is usually built in parts:- The implant post, which sits in the jawbone
- The abutment, which connects the post to the tooth above
- The crown, bridge, or denture, which is the visible “tooth” part
Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are not one-size-fits-all. The “right” type depends on how many teeth are missing, where they are missing, and how much healthy bone you have:- Single-tooth implants replace one missing tooth without needing to reshape the teeth next to it. This is helpful when you want to keep surrounding teeth as natural as possible. A single implant can support one crown.
- Implant-supported bridges are often used when you are missing a few teeth in a row. Instead of placing an implant for every missing tooth, your dentist may place implants at key points to hold a bridge. This can lower the number of implants needed while still giving strong support.
- Implant-supported dentures can help when many or all teeth are missing. Some dentures “snap” onto implants, helping them stay in place better than traditional dentures. Others are fixed in place and do not come out at home. This can be a big comfort for patients who are tired of loose dentures or sore spots.
- All-on-4 or full-arch implant options may be recommended for patients who need many teeth replaced. In some cases, a full arch of teeth can be supported by a set number of implants. The exact number and design depend on your bite and bone health. Your City Station Dental team will explain what is realistic and safe for you.
- Mini implants may be used in certain situations. They are smaller in diameter and may be helpful when space is limited or when a patient’s bone is thinner. They are not right for every case, but they can be an option for some patients.
What to Expect from Dental Implant Treatment
Getting a dental implant is a process, but it’s usually done in clear steps. City Station Dental will guide you through each visit, so you know what is happening and why. The general process is as follows:- Consultation & Planning: Your first step is a full exam. Your dentist will look at your gums, your bite, and the space where the tooth is missing. You may also need X-rays or 3D imaging. This helps your dentist see the bone and plan the safest place for the implant. Planning is important because the implant needs to be placed where it can handle chewing forces and avoid nearby nerves and sinuses.
- Preparing the Area: If a tooth still needs to be removed, your dentist will discuss the best timing. Some patients may also need treatment for gum disease first, since healthy gums help support long-term implant success. If bone grafting is needed, that may be done before the implant is placed or at the same time, depending on your case.
- Implant Placement: The implant post is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Your comfort is a priority. Many patients are surprised that the procedure is easier than they expected. After the implant is placed, the area is allowed to heal.
- Healing and bonding time: Healing time can vary. During this stage, the bone bonds to the implant. You may have a temporary tooth or a temporary option so you do not feel like you have a gap in your smile. City Station Dental will explain what you can expect for your specific case and how to care for the area during healing.
- Abutment and final tooth: Once healing is complete, the connector piece (abutment) is placed if it was not placed earlier. Then impressions or digital scans are taken so the final crown, bridge, or denture can be made. The goal is a natural look and a comfortable bite. When the final restoration is placed, your dentist will check the fit and make sure your bite feels right.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Why Choose Dr. Peter Okwerekwu for Dental Implants?
When you are considering dental implants, choosing the right provider is one of the most important decisions you will make. You want someone with the skill, experience, and judgment to handle the unexpected. You want a dentist who will listen to your concerns, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every step of the process. At City Station Dental, Dr. Peter Okwerekwu offers all of that and more.
A Foundation of Advanced Education and Clinical Skill
Dr. Okwerekwu brings a rare combination of advanced training and hands-on experience to implant dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from Boston University, one of the nation’s leading dental schools. He also holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Minnesota, reflecting his commitment to evidence-based care and patient well-being. This background is not just academic. It translates directly to better, safer outcomes for his patients.
His approach to implant dentistry is meticulous and patient-centered. He takes the time to understand your unique anatomy, your goals, and your concerns before creating a personalized treatment plan. This is not a “one-size-fits-all” practice. Every implant case is carefully planned using diagnostic imaging to ensure precise placement and long-term stability.
Comprehensive Implant Care Under One Roof
One advantage of choosing Dr. Okwerekwu for dental implants is the convenience and continuity of care. He coordinates every phase of your implant journey, from the initial consultation and 3D imaging to implant placement and the final restoration. You will not be referred to an unfamiliar specialist or expected to coordinate care between multiple offices. Everything happens in one location, with a team you know and trust.
This is especially valuable if your case requires additional procedures like bone grafting or tooth extraction. Dr. Okwerekwu can perform these in the same office, simplifying your treatment and reducing the number of visits you need. This also ensures that every decision is made with the full picture in mind, reducing the risk of miscommunication or gaps in care.
A Focus on Comfort and Trust
Dr. Okwerekwu is deeply passionate about creating a comfortable, trusting environment where patients feel empowered to ask questions and express their concerns. He understands that many people feel anxious about dental procedures, especially surgery. That is why he takes the time to explain each step in plain language, so you are never left wondering what’s happening or why.
His patients describe him as calm, thorough, and reassuring. He doesn’t rush through appointments or pressure patients into decisions. Instead, he listens to help you feel confident in the path you choose. This is the difference between a transaction and a relationship.
A Commitment to Long-Term Success
Dental implants are designed to last, but their longevity depends on proper planning, placement, and maintenance. Dr. Okwerekwu’s commitment to ongoing education means he stays current with the latest techniques and materials, so you benefit from the most up-to-date care. His goal is not just to place an implant, but to help you maintain it for decades to come.
If you are looking for a dentist who combines technical skill with genuine care, Dr. Peter Okwerekwu is the most experienced implant dentist in the Troy area. Contact City Station Dental today to schedule your consultation and discover the difference that expert, compassionate care can make.
Request A Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you are missing teeth and want a steady, natural-looking option, City Station Dental can help you explore whether dental implants fit your needs. A consultation is the best way to learn what options are available for your smile, your health, and your goals. To get started, call 518-241-1168
