Restorative treatment
Dental implants
A permanent replacement for a missing tooth that looks, feels and works like the real thing. Here’s exactly what to expect, from first chat to final smile.
- Typical cost
- $3,200–4,500
- Total time
- 4–7 months
- Visits
- 5–6
- Led by
- Dr. Alvarez
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Consultation & 3D scan 45 minutes
We check your gums and bone, take a low-dose 3D scan and talk through your options, costs and timeline. No commitment needed.
- 2
Implant placement 1–2 hours
Under local anaesthetic (or sedation if you prefer), Dr. Alvarez places a small titanium post where the root used to be. Most people are back at work the next day.
- 3
Healing 3–6 months
The implant bonds with your jawbone. You’ll wear a temporary tooth so nobody can tell, and we check in at 2 and 8 weeks.
- 4
Your new crown 2 short visits
We scan the healed site and fit a custom ceramic crown, colour-matched to your teeth. It looks, feels and works like a natural tooth.
Aftercare
First 48 hours
- Rest and keep your head slightly raised
- Soft, cool foods: yoghurt, soup, smoothies (no straws)
- Use a cold pack on your cheek, 15 minutes on and off
First two weeks
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals
- Brush carefully around the area with a soft brush
- Avoid smoking, which slows healing
This page is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the personal aftercare instructions your dentist gives you, and call us if you have bleeding, swelling or pain that gets worse.
Questions about implants
Does getting an implant hurt?
The area is fully numbed, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Afterwards, mild soreness for a few days is common and usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Your dentist will advise what is right for you.
How long do implants last?
With good brushing, flossing and regular check-ups, implants can last for decades. The crown on top may eventually need replacing after 10–15 years of wear.
Am I a good candidate?
Most healthy adults are. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and gum disease can affect healing, so we’ll look at your health history at the consultation and suggest alternatives if an implant isn’t the best fit.
Will insurance pay for it?
Many plans cover part of the cost, often the crown. Grace will check your benefits before treatment and give you a written estimate.