Complete Treatment for Dental Implants in Chapel Hill, NC
Dental implants are the gold standard for treating missing teeth. They are a tooth replacement option that is as close to your natural teeth as possible. A dental implant is permanent, natural-looking, and can stabilize your overall oral health. By replacing both the tooth and the tooth root, the implanted post functions like a tooth root to minimize bone loss in the jaw. Dr. Furgurson and Dr. White recommend using dental implants whenever appropriate. Patients who need to replace a lost tooth or secure a bridge or denture benefit the most from dental implants. Tooth implants among the dental services we provide to patients in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Your dentist will work with you to evaluate your dental health and discuss your concerns and goals. He will give relevant treatment advice for tooth replacement.
Dr. James Furgurson has advanced training in implant dentistry, having completed advanced continuing education programs at the Triangle Dental Institute and the world-renowned Misch Resnik Institute. Dr. Furgurson has achieved the status of Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He demonstrates his skill and commitment to providing the highest level of care for dental implant patients.
The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) is the world’s largest dental implant organization and leading provider of continuing dental implant education. As an ICOI Fellow, Dr. Furgurson demonstrates his ongoing commitment to providing the highest standard of care in implant dentistry. To attain Fellowship membership, Dr. Furgurson must meet continuing education requirements, complete a written exam, and demonstrate at least 20 completed dental implant cases.
About Our Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are placed in stages over several months. Here’s your journey from consultation to a complete smile.
Step 1: Consultation & 3D Imaging (One Visit)
Dr. Furgurson will examine your mouth, take CBCT scans (low-radiation 3D X-rays that show your jawbone in detail), and discuss your goals. We’ll determine whether you need any preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting or tooth extractions. You’ll leave with a clear treatment plan and cost estimate.
Step 2: Implant Placement (One Visit, 1-2 Hours)
Under local anesthesia, Dr. Furgurson surgically places the titanium implant post into your jawbone. In many cases, we perform this right in our Chapel Hill office. Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
Step 3: Healing & Osseointegration (3-6 Months)
During this critical phase, your jawbone grows around the implant, fusing with it to create a rock-solid foundation. This process, called osseointegration, is what makes implants so durable. We’ll place a temporary restoration so you’re never without teeth.
Step 4: Abutment & Crown Placement (1-2 Visits)
Once healed, we attach the abutment (connector piece) and your custom-crafted crown. Dr. Furgurson designs your crown to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The result is a permanent, natural-looking tooth that functions just like the real thing.
Dental implants are an exciting option for patients with missing teeth. They offer key benefits for your overall and long-term oral health, including the following:
- Over 95% success rate among current patients
- Enables a normal diet without restriction
- Supports healthy bone structure and reduces bone loss in the jaw
- Patients can speak clearly and confidently without fear of slippage
Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures: How They Compare
Choosing the right tooth replacement option depends on your goals, budget, and oral health. Here’s how dental implants compare to the alternatives:
Dental Implants replace both the tooth and its root. This preserves jawbone and prevents the sunken facial appearance that often follows tooth loss. Implants don’t require support from neighboring teeth, leaving healthy teeth untouched. They restore nearly full chewing power, allowing you to eat steak, apples, and corn on the cob without worry.
Dental Bridges use the teeth adjacent to the gap as anchors. Those healthy teeth must be shaved down to accommodate crowns. Bridges typically last 5-15 years before needing replacement. They don’t replace the tooth root, so bone loss continues beneath the restoration. Bridges restore about 60% of natural chewing power.
Dentures are removable appliances that rest on the gums. They don’t prevent bone loss, which can cause them to loosen over time and require refitting. Dentures typically need replacement every 5-10 years. They restore about 30% of natural chewing power and can slip or click during speaking and eating.
Studies show that dental implants have a 35% higher long-term success rate than traditional fixed bridgework or dentures. While the upfront investment is higher, the long-term value and quality-of-life benefits make implants the best tooth replacement option for many.
Types of Dental Implants
Single Tooth Implant
When a single tooth is missing, a dental implant is often the best choice. It replaces both the visible tooth and the root structure without affecting neighboring teeth. Unlike a traditional bridge, no healthy teeth are shaved down. The implant preserves your jawbone and maintains your facial structure.
Multiple Dental Implants
If you’re missing several consecutive teeth, an implant-secured bridge offers stable, comfortable results. Two or more implants support a custom bridge that fills the gap. This option provides the oral health benefits of a single implant while restoring multiple teeth at once.
All-On-Four® Implants
All-On-Four® Implants is a procedure that can replace an entire arch of missing teeth in just one day. This system uses four implants to support a full arch of prosthetic teeth, providing patients with a secure and natural-looking smile. All-On-Four® Implants offer many advantages over traditional dental implants, including faster treatment times, fewer visits to the dentist, and improved stability and comfort. This unique treatment option can replace an entire arch or full set of missing teeth using an implant-secured hybrid denture.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Chapel Hill, NC?
The cost of dental implants varies based on your specific needs. We provide a complete, itemized treatment plan during your consultation with no surprises.
Many dental insurance plans now offer partial coverage for implants, typically 50% after your deductible. Our team will verify your benefits and file claims on your behalf.
We also offer flexible payment plans through CareCredit and other financing companies, making implant treatment affordable for almost any budget. Ask about our low- and no-interest options during your consultation.
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Learn More About Our Implant Dentistry
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults with missing teeth are candidates for dental implants. You may be a good candidate if:
- You have adequate jawbone density: Implants need a solid foundation. If you’ve experienced bone loss from missing teeth, we offer bone grafting to rebuild the area.
- Your gums are healthy: Active gum disease must be treated before implant placement. We’ll evaluate your gum health during your consultation.
- You’re in good overall health: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking may affect healing. We’ll review your medical history to ensure implant success.
- You’re committed to good oral hygiene: Implants last a lifetime with proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
The only way to know for sure is a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Furgurson uses CBCT 3D imaging to assess your bone density and plan your implant placement with surgical precision.
What If I Don’t Have Enough Bone?
Many patients who have been missing teeth for years have experienced some bone loss. This doesn’t disqualify you from implants, just requires an additional step.
Bone grafting is a procedure that adds bone material to your jaw, creating a strong foundation for implants. Dr. Furgurson can perform this right in our Chapel Hill office. After grafting, you’ll wait 4-6 months for the bone to heal before implant placement.
With modern techniques, even patients who have been told they “don’t have enough bone” are still candidates for dental implants.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants Today
Missing teeth impact your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
Dr. James Furgurson (FICOI) and Dr. Nathan White have the advanced training and experience to restore your smile right here in Chapel Hill. We proudly serve patients from Chapel Hill, Durham, Cary, and throughout the Triangle region.
Call us today at 919-736-6175 or request an appointment online. Let’s discuss how dental implants can change your life.