Losing a tooth is something most people don’t expect to deal with, but when it happens, it affects far more than just your appearance. It changes how you chew, how you speak, and how comfortable you feel in your own skin. Dr. Kevin Chidester, DMD and our team at Maplewood Family Dental understand how much that loss can impact your daily life, and they’re here to help you reclaim it. Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that goes beyond aesthetics to restore full function and confidence to your smile.
Dental Implants
How a Dental Implant Replaces a Tooth Root
When a natural tooth is lost, the root goes with it, and that root was doing more work than most people realize. It anchored the tooth in place, absorbed bite pressure, and signaled the jawbone to stay dense and healthy. A dental implant steps into that exact role by acting as an artificial root, taking on those same responsibilities so your jaw doesn’t have to compensate for the loss.
The implant itself is a titanium post placed directly into the jawbone, where it gradually bonds with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This isn’t just surface-level attachment. The implant becomes part of your jaw structure the same way a natural root does. Everything built on top of it, including the abutment and crown, is supported by that solid, bone-level foundation, which is what gives dental implants their strength and stability over the long term.
Benefits of Dental Implants
How We Place Your Dental Implants
Getting to Know Your Dental Needs
Before any treatment begins, Dr. Kevin Chidester, DMD takes time to thoroughly evaluate your oral health, review your medical history, and take detailed X-rays or 3D scans of your jaw. This first visit is about more than just checking eligibility. It’s about understanding your specific situation so that every decision made afterward is the right one for you. You’ll also have plenty of time to ask questions and discuss any concerns before moving forward.
Designing a Plan Built Around You
Once your evaluation is complete, a treatment plan is put together that accounts for your jawbone condition, the number of teeth being replaced, and any preparatory work that may be needed beforehand. Dr. Chidester walks you through each step in plain language so you know exactly what’s ahead, including realistic timelines and what to prepare for at each stage. No two plans look the same because no two patients have identical needs.
Surgical Placement of Your Implant
On procedure day, the titanium implant post is carefully inserted into your jawbone under local anesthesia. The process is precise and methodical, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is. Once the post is in place, the healing phase begins, and this is when osseointegration takes place and the implant starts bonding with your bone.
Caring for Your Implant As It Heals
The weeks following your procedure are critical to the long-term success of your implant. Dr. Kevin Chidester, DMD will give you clear, specific instructions on diet, oral hygiene, and activities to avoid while your jaw heals. Sticking to these guidelines closely gives your implant the best possible conditions to integrate fully and securely.
Monitoring Your Results Over Time
Once your implant has healed and your final crown or restoration is secured, scheduled follow-up visits allow Dr. Chidester to confirm that everything is functioning the way it should. These checkups are an important part of the process. They catch any early concerns before they develop and give you the assurance that your implant is performing at its best. Long-term success starts with consistent, attentive follow-up care.
Why Choose Us for Dental Implants
Choosing where to receive dental implants is a significant decision, and it deserves careful thought. Dr. Kevin Chidester, DMD is committed to making sure every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident before, during, and after treatment. The team at Maplewood Family Dental takes time to listen to your goals and concerns, and then crafts a personalized approach designed to deliver results that truly last.
Beyond clinical skill, what sets this practice apart is the level of individualized attention each patient receives. You won’t be rushed through an appointment or handed a one-size-fits-all solution. From your first consultation to your final follow-up, the focus remains on your comfort, your health, and the quality of your outcome. That kind of care makes all the difference when you’re making a decision as important as dental implants.
FAQs
How much are dental implants?
Dental implant costs vary based on how many teeth need to be replaced, the complexity of your case, and whether preparatory procedures are required. There’s no single price that applies to everyone, which is why a personalized consultation is the best place to start. Most dental offices provide detailed cost breakdowns upfront and offer financing options to help patients move forward with treatment comfortably.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are built for the long term. The titanium post can last a lifetime with proper care, while the crown on top typically holds up for 10 to 15 years before it may need replacement. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are the most important factors in keeping your implant in good condition for as long as possible.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients are surprised by how manageable the procedure feels. Local anesthesia is used during placement, so discomfort during the procedure itself is minimal. Some soreness and swelling in the days that follow is normal and usually resolves within a week. Over-the-counter pain relievers are typically enough to keep post-procedure discomfort under control during recovery.
Why no dairy after dental implant?
Dairy products can encourage bacterial growth in the mouth, which raises the risk of infection around the implant site during early healing. Certain dairy foods may also cause nausea when taken alongside post-procedure medications. Avoiding dairy for the first few days and following your dentist’s dietary guidelines closely gives your implant the best conditions for a smooth, complication-free recovery.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants have a well-documented safety record and a high success rate when placed by a qualified dental professional. They are made from biocompatible titanium, a material the body tolerates well and rarely rejects. As with any dental procedure, there are risks involved, and a thorough consultation will give you a complete picture of what to expect before committing to treatment.
A Permanent Solution to Tooth Loss is Closer Than You Think!
Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to permanently address tooth loss, and the right support makes all the difference in the outcome. Dr. Kevin Chidester, DMD and the Maplewood Family Dental team are ready to walk you through your options and answer every question you have. Reach out at 919.438.3933 or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram to get a feel for who we are before your first visit, then schedule your consultation and take that first step toward a smile you’re proud of.
