If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re not alone — millions of Americans experience tooth loss due to injury, decay, or gum disease. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a long-lasting, natural-looking solution: dental implants.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dental implants — what they are, how they work, and whether they might be right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a tooth replacement option that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. It consists of three parts:
- Implant post – a small titanium screw that’s surgically placed into your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root
- Abutment – a connector placed on top of the implant that holds the crown
- Crown – a custom-made tooth replacement that matches the shape and color of your natural teeth
Implants are known for their strength, durability, and ability to restore full chewing power.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are placed in stages over the course of several months. Here’s an overview of the process:
- Initial Consultation
Your dentist will examine your mouth, review X-rays or 3D scans, and determine whether you’re a good candidate. - Implant Placement
The titanium post is placed into your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Healing can take several months as the implant integrates with your bone (a process called osseointegration). - Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant. - Crown Placement
Finally, a dental crown is placed on top of the abutment to complete your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options:
- Natural appearance and function
- Permanent and long-lasting (often lasting decades with proper care)
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw
- Doesn’t affect surrounding healthy teeth (unlike bridges)
- Improves confidence and quality of life
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants may be right for you if:
- You’re missing one or more teeth
- You have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density
- You’re in generally good health
- You don’t smoke or are willing to quit during healing
- You’re committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate due to bone loss, procedures like bone grafting may still make implants an option.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 15 years or longer — and many last a lifetime. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding smoking or grinding your teeth can significantly extend their lifespan.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes — dental implants are considered one of the safest and most predictable procedures in modern dentistry. They have a success rate of over 95% when placed by an experienced provider.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on:
- The number of implants you need
- Whether additional procedures like bone grafting or tooth extraction are required
- Your geographic location
- Your insurance coverage
In Nevada, a single dental implant , abutment, and crown can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. Many patients consider it a worthwhile investment due to the long-term benefits, and this price is greatly mitigated by Futch Dental’s reasonable payment plans, in addition to insurance.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
Some dental insurance plans do cover part of the cost of dental implants — especially the crown. However, coverage varies widely, and not all policies include implants. At Futch Dental, our team can help you understand your benefits and explore financing options if needed.
Considering Dental Implants in Nevada?
At Futch Dental in Reno, NV, we specialize in restoring smiles with high-quality dental implants. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need full-mouth restoration, Dr. Futch and our team are here to help you regain confidence and function. Schedule a consultation today to find out if dental implants are right for you.
