Dental implants
An implant is a small post placed in the jaw to hold a crown, a bridge or a denture. Dr. Applewhite places the implant. Your own dentist makes and fits the crown.
We work with your dentist on the plan, so you know who does which part, and what each part costs, before surgery.
Who it is for
For adults
Placed here, restored by your dentist
Not for everyone; a consult tells you
What happens
Several visits over some months, because the jaw needs time to heal around the implant.
- 01
Step 1: Consult and scan
A look at your mouth and jaw, and the imaging we need to plan.
- 02
Step 2: A plan with your dentist
Who places, who restores, in what order and at what fee.
- 03
Step 3: Placing the implant
You are numbed, or sedated if you chose it.
- 04
Step 4: Healing
The jaw heals around the implant for a period Dr. Applewhite tells you about.
- 05
Step 5: Your dentist finishes it
The crown, bridge or denture is made and fitted at your dentist's office.
Before you decide
What we tell every patient, in the same four parts.
Comfort
The area is numbed, and sedation is a choice we talk through first. You can ask for a break at any point.
If you wait
A missing tooth can let neighboring teeth shift. An implant isn't the only choice; a bridge, a denture or leaving the space are others, and we go through them.
Risks and after-care
Swelling, bruising and soreness follow surgery. Infection, an implant that doesn't join with the bone, damage near nerves or the sinus can happen. Smoking and some conditions raise the risk, and Dr. Applewhite goes through yours.
How it is billed
The implant and the crown are billed separately, often by two offices. You get our estimate in writing, and your dentist gives you theirs.
How fees work
Questions about dental implants
Who makes the crown?
Your own dentist. We place the implant and send them what they need.
How long does it take?
Usually some months from placement to the finished crown, because healing takes time. Dr. Applewhite gives you a range for your case.
Is an implant right for me?
It depends on your health, your bone and your gums. A consult is how we find out.
Will my plan pay for it?
Some plans cover part of it and some none. Thomas checks and calls you before you decide.
Provided by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon
Dr. Dionne Applewhite, DDS, licensed in Louisiana. Practice limited to oral and maxillofacial surgery.