Dental Implants

What are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

Dental Implants Presentation

A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the dental implant is made of titanium — the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.

Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post (abutment) is then placed on the dental implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the dental implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

Questions about Dental Implants? Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hill.

Older man with dental implants smiling

Don’t be afraid to Smile.

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Dental Implant Surgical Advances

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. David Lee Hill, Jr. is able to place single stage dental implants. These dental implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the dental implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction — further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. David Lee Hill, Jr. performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.


Patient Reviews for Dental Implants

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Chapel Hill Implant & Oral Surgery Center

5 out of 5 stars based on 5 Dental Implants reviews.

Patient Testimonial

I can't say enough how gracious Dr. Hill and his whole staff was when I came in to the office. Very thankful for the team and working me in for my surgery.

- Debbie Z

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial

Great communication and technical skills. A blessing. Quicker healing and less pain than expected for complete upper implants. Very thankful!

- Tim N

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial

I would recommend this practice without hesitation. The office is comfortable, the technology is top of the line and the people have a sincere human touch. Everyone at this practice, seems to enjoy their work and respect one another. Thank you to all of them!

- Nancy P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial

I had a great experience. Care is top notch!

- Kellie A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Testimonial

Excellent experience with the entire staff. Definitely recommend!

- Mary M

5 out of 5 stars on