Implant Dentistry
Dental Implants
An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth, and the crown on top replaces the rest. Planning, surgical placement and the final restoration all happen in this building, so one team stays accountable from the first scan to the last adjustment.
On this page
What this involves
Why an implant rather than a bridge
A bridge borrows support from the teeth on either side of a gap, which means preparing two healthy teeth to solve one problem. An implant stands on its own and leaves its neighbours alone.
It also preserves the bone. Bone that no longer carries a root gradually thins, and that change eventually shows in the face as well as the mouth. An implant keeps that area loaded and working.
Planning and imaging
Every case begins with 3D imaging. We look at bone volume, nerve position and the shape of the space, then plan the position of the implant before any appointment is booked for placement.
Where guided placement is appropriate, the plan is translated into a surgical guide so the implant goes exactly where it was designed to go. Precision at this stage is what makes the crown on top look and function like a tooth.
Placement and healing
Placement is done here under local anaesthetic, with sedation options discussed beforehand if you would prefer them. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the appointment itself is.
The implant then needs time to integrate with the bone before the final restoration is made. Healing varies from person to person, and we plan around what your case needs rather than a fixed calendar. In many cases a temporary is provided so you are not without a tooth in a visible area.
The restoration on top
The final crown, bridge or denture attachment is designed to match your existing teeth in colour, shape and how it meets the bite. Because we place and restore in the same practice, there is no handoff between offices and no ambiguity about who is responsible for the outcome.
Dr. Marino has continued his implant training through Minec America. That is continuing education rather than specialty credentialing, and it is the honest description of it.
Looking after an implant
An implant does not decay, but the gum and bone around it still need care. Cleaning around the implant properly and keeping to your hygiene schedule is what protects the investment.
We check the implant, the bite and the surrounding tissue at your regular visits.
Who it is for
You are missing a tooth
One gap, whether it is recent or long standing, is the most common implant case we treat.
A tooth cannot be saved
When a tooth is fractured or failing, planning the replacement before removal usually gives a better result.
Your denture moves
Implants can anchor a denture so it stays where you put it, which changes both eating and confidence.
How it works
Assess
A consultation and 3D scan to see the bone, the nerve position and the space available.
Plan
We design the implant position digitally and review the plan, the sequence and the cost with you.
Place
The implant is placed here, guided where appropriate, under local anaesthetic.
Integrate
The implant is left to fuse with the bone, with a temporary in place where appearance matters.
Restore
The final crown or bridge is fitted, adjusted to your bite and checked at a follow-up.
Common questions
Dental Implants
It is done under local anaesthetic and most patients describe the appointment as easier than they expected. Sedation options can be discussed in advance.
It depends on healing and on whether any preparatory work is needed. We map the sequence for your case at the planning appointment.
Some sites need bone added before or during placement. The 3D scan tells us early, so it is part of the plan rather than a surprise.
It is designed to. Colour, shape and translucency are matched to the teeth beside it.
Age itself is rarely the deciding factor. Bone quality and general health matter more, and we assess both before recommending treatment.
No. Placement and restoration are both handled here.
Other services
We would like to meet you.
Appointments in Whitehouse Station, most weekdays from eight.
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