What are dental implants? Dental implants are substitutes for teeth and are today's best alternative to your natural teeth. They are specialized titanium fixtures placed into the jaw underneath the gum that biologically bond to living bone. Once healed they act as anchors to allow the attachment of artificial teeth or dentures. Dental implants restore the natural look, feel, and function of natural teeth. You'll be able to chew, enjoy, and digest your food too. "There is now overwhelming evidence that a 2-implant overdenture should become the first choice of treatment for the edentulous mandible. Patients have a significantly higher quality of life and improved nutritional state with stabilized dentures." from an article in the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association Sept. 2002, Vol. 68, No. 8, Pg. 469 Am I eligible? Many types of patients benefit from Dental Implants. Those with failing dentition, accident victims and others who presently wear full or partial dentures. Implants are especially successful for attaching teeth in people with full upper dentures and REVOLUTIONARY for those who have suffered with full lower dentrues. The success rate of Dental Implants is outstanding but not all patients are suitable candidates. You should be in good health and have a positive attitude. Compliance with post-operative maintenance instructions and good oral hygiene directly affects treatment outcome. Dental Implants restore a lot more than just teeth. Is it painful? With administration of an anti-inflammatory medication and careful surgical technique, in most cases post-operative discomfort is less than with regular tooth extraction. Where are these procedures performed? Dr. McCullough is proud to provide complete comprehensive in-office service for all phases of treatment, including IV sedation (See our Dentistry Asleep services page...). Surgery is performed using sterile surgical protocol, and your prostheses are created on premises by denture specialist Joe Della Marina. How much does treatment cost? Services such as radiographs, consultation fees, extractions, and IV sedations are normally covered under your regular dental plan. Implant procedures are not. To find out moreabout your choices, begin by calling us for a consultation. Dr. McCullough will help you understand what to expect regarding procedures, cost, duration, and post-implant care. The McCullough group offers a variety of payment options, for more information, please see our Financial Options page. I don't want dentures, I have teeth. Can implants help? Fixed teeth and crowns