Dr. Lee has extensive experience in implant surgery, replacing lost teeth with state-of-the-art techniques so patients at her New York City and Englewood Cliffs, NJ, practices can feel confident about their smiles - and leave their dentures and dental bridges behind.
Dental implants are artificial teeth that use a metal post or “root” to hold the prosthetic tooth in place. They're a more comfortable, more natural-looking alternative to partial dentures and bridges, and they can also be used for extensive restorations to hold bridges in place. Dental implants feature a crown that can be custom-tinted and shaped to look just like your natural teeth, and they're easier to care for than bridges or partial dentures.
Implant surgery takes place over three or more appointments. At the first appointment, the metal post will be implanted into the jaw. The post serves as the tooth's “root.” The next appointment won't be for several weeks. During that time, the post will fuse with the jaw bone tissue so it's strong enough to support the artificial tooth or crown. At the second appointment, another metal piece called an abutment will be attached to the post. The abutment will serve as the attachment for the crown. An impression will also be made at this appointment so your crown can be custom-made for your mouth. At the third appointment, the crown will be attached to the abutment and buffed for a perfect fit.
If you lost your tooth some time ago, the bone may have atrophied, and you may need a bone graft to help support the post. In most cases, a graft can be performed using your own tissue at the same time the post is put in place.
No, implants can be cared for with regular brushing and flossing and routine dental visits to ward off gum disease – just like you would care for your natural teeth.
We accept most major insurance plans, including the ones listed here. Financing is also available through Care Credit. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed or if you have questions about coverage or financing.