Dental Implants

Indianapolis Dental Implant Provider

Dental implants are one of the best permanent options for patients with missing teeth. They look and feel natural and will last a long time with proper care.

Dental implants are pieces of titanium that resemble a screw. They are anchored into the jawbone as a support system for your crowns. The implant connects to an abutment that connects your implant and crown.

After the screw is inserted into your bone socket, the implant will stimulate bone growth. Your jaw will naturally grow around the implant and fuse together as one, a process known as ossification. The implant leaves the surrounding teeth intact.

Once ossification happens, the remainder of the implant is attached. A connector, known as an abutment, is placed on top of the dental implant as a support base for a crown that will complete the implant. The entire process – from implant surgery to crown placement – can take up to 7 months.

When fully healed, implants do not affect eating, drinking, or speaking. Most patients report an easy transition and great experience living with implants.

Implants require the usual brushing and flossing as well as twice-yearly cleaning and exam appointments.

Consider implants as a solution for your missing teeth. They do require a healthy mouth and adequate bone, as well as a time commitment. We’ll advise on your personal situation.

Call Lockhart Dentistry in Indianapolis today for a consultation – implants truly are one of the best ways to restore your teeth and smile!

Dental Implant FAQs

At Lockhart Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we believe your smile deserves strength, stability, and natural-looking results. If you're considering dental implants, here are answers to common questions to help guide your decision.
How long does a dental implant last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the implant post—the titanium screw placed into your jawbone—can last decades, often for a lifetime. The visible part (crown) may need replacement eventually due to wear, but the underlying implant remains stable for many years.
Are there alternatives to dental implants?
Yes. If implants are not the right fit for your oral health needs, other options include traditional dentures, partial dentures, and bridges. These alternatives can restore appearance and some function—but they typically don't offer the same stability or bone preservation as implants.
Who is the ideal candidate for dental implants?
The best candidates are adults who have adequate jawbone density and overall oral health. If bone loss has occurred, we'll assess whether bone grafting or other preparatory steps are needed. We tailor treatment plans to your individual situation to ensure implants are a long-term success.
What are the advantages of dental implants over other options?
• Natural look and feel — Implants are anchored to your jawbone and function much like real tooth roots, offering stability when you eat or speak. • Durability and longevity — As noted, implants often outlast dentures or bridges by decades. • Better oral health — Because they stimulate the jawbone, implants help prevent bone loss and support facial structure. • Comfort and ease of care — Implants don't require adhesives or nightly removal; you brush and floss them like natural teeth.
Are dentures compatible with dental implants?
Yes. In some cases, implants are used to anchor dentures, providing greater stability and preventing the slipping or shifting common with traditional removable dentures. This hybrid approach can combine denture coverage with the strength and permanence of implants.
Will my implant look natural?
Absolutely. Because implants are anchored in your jaw and topped with a custom crown, they blend in with your natural teeth in color, shape, and function — making it very difficult for others to tell the difference.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Some dental insurance policies include implants, but many treat them as elective or major restorative procedures. That means coverage may be limited or capped. Even when partially covered, the patient is often responsible for a portion of the cost. We recommend checking your specific policy and contacting our office to discuss payment or financing options.
If you're ready to explore whether dental implants are right for you, or if you have more questions, call Lockhart Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today. We'd love to help you regain a healthy, confident smile.