Searching for “dental implant dentistry near me” means you want a clear, local plan for replacing missing teeth with implants. This guide walks you from the first consult through surgery and recovery. Read on to learn the basics of implants, what happens at your visits, travel and cost tips, advanced options for patients told they have “no bone,” and how to choose the right specialist.
How dental implants work: the basics
A dental implant is a titanium post placed in the jaw to act like a tooth root. A crown, bridge, or denture attaches to the implant to restore chewing, speech, and appearance. Unlike bridges or removable dentures, implants fuse to bone and keep the jaw healthy, so they feel and function more like natural teeth.
What to expect during your first visit for dental implant dentistry near me
Consultation & medical history
Your dentist will review your health, medications, and dental history. They’ll ask about smoking, diabetes, and past dental problems because these affect healing. Bring a list of meds and questions about recovery, costs, and timing.
Imaging and diagnostics
Expect a 3D CT scan or cone beam scan to map bone, nerves, and sinus spaces. These images let the team plan exact implant placement and avoid complications. Many practices also use digital intraoral scans for precise records.
Treatment options review
The team will explain options: single tooth implants, multiple implants, implant-supported bridges, and All-on-X full-arch solutions. If bone is thin, they’ll discuss grafting or alternative implant types. You’ll get a step-by-step care plan and timeline.
Surgery day: steps and timeline
On surgery day you’ll check in, review consent, and receive anesthesia—local, IV sedation, or general, based on the case. The implant is placed into bone and the site closed. Some patients get a temporary tooth the same day; others wait for healing before a final prosthesis. Procedures often take 1–3 hours.
Same-day vs staged approaches
Immediate (same-day) loading is possible when bone and stability are excellent. A staged approach pauses for several months to let bone fuse first; this is safer when bone is weak or multiple teeth are replaced.
Recovery and follow-up care
Expect mild to moderate swelling and soreness for a few days. Use cold packs, rest, and take prescribed pain meds. Soft foods and gentle oral hygiene help healing. Call the office for fever, severe pain, or heavy bleeding.
Post-op checks and final restoration
You’ll return for short post-op checks and suture removal. After the implant integrates (often 3–6 months), the final crown or denture is placed. Many referring dentists handle interim checks; you’ll return later for the final fit.
Advanced solutions for patients told “you have no bone”
For patients with little upper or lower bone, options include zygomatic, pterygoid, transsinus, and subperiosteal implants. These use different bone anchors to avoid extensive grafting and can restore function when traditional implants aren’t possible.
Costs, travel, and planning for out-of-state patients
Plan trips so pre-op scans and consults are done before surgery. Some surgeons meet you the day before surgery and you return home the day after. Expect to see your local dentist for short-term follow-ups and return months later for final checks. Ask about bundled pricing, financing, and what’s included.
Why choose a board-certified implant specialist
Board certification means extra training and experience. Dr. Michael Fioritto is one of about nine board‑certified implant specialists in Ohio. He uses full digital workflows (facial, intraoral, photogrammetry scanners), treats complex “no bone” cases with advanced implant options, teaches the All-on-X digital workflow to local dentists, and accommodates many out-of-state patients. He offers free consultations and CT scans to help patients plan care.
Next steps for finding dental implant dentistry near me
Ask about board certification, digital imaging, advanced implant options, and follow-up care. Request a CT scan and a clear written plan with costs and timelines. Call to schedule a free consult and get your CT to start planning.