What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post placed directly into the jawbone. Over the following months, the bone fuses to the post through a process called osseointegration. Once integration is complete, a custom prosthetic tooth (crown, bridge, or denture) is attached on top.

The result looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants replace the root, which means they stimulate the bone and prevent the deterioration that follows tooth loss.

Why Bone Preservation Matters?

When a tooth is removed and not replaced with an implant, the bone that surrounded the root begins to resorb. This starts within weeks of extraction. Over months and years, bone loss:

- Changes the shape of the jaw and face

- Causes a sunken facial appearance that can age a person 10–20 years

- Causes adjacent teeth to shift

- Makes future implant placement more complex

- Results in dentures that progressively loosen as the bone shrinks

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that preserves bone by functioning as a root. Bridges and dentures replace the visible part of the tooth, but bone loss continues beneath them.

Implant Options at CharlottePerio

CharlottePerio offers the full range of implant-based solutions for tooth loss, from a single missing tooth to a full arch replacement.

Single Tooth Implant

One implant post supports one custom crown. The most complete way to replace a single missing tooth without altering the teeth on either side. Learn more → [Single Tooth Implant Charlotte]

All-on-4 Dental Implants

Four strategically placed implants support a complete fixed arch of teeth. Suitable for patients with full tooth loss or who need full-arch extraction, including those with some bone loss. For certain candidates, a provisional, fixed prosthetic can be placed on the day of implant surgery. Learn more → [All-on-4 Dental Implants Charlotte]

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implants anchor a denture securely, eliminating slipping, adhesives, and the bone loss that comes with traditional removable dentures. Options include snap-on overdentures and fully fixed implant dentures. Learn more → [Implant-Supported Dentures Charlotte]

Full Mouth Dental Implants

Complete replacement of all teeth in one or both arches using implants as the foundation. Options include All-on-4, All-on-6, and individual implants per tooth. Learn more → [Full Mouth Dental Implants Charlotte]

Bone Grafting for Implants

Patients with bone loss at the implant site may need a bone graft to build an adequate foundation before implant placement. CharlottePerio performs bone grafts within our practice, including socket preservation, ridge augmentation, and sinus lifts. Learn more → [Bone Grafting for Dental Implants]

Benefits of Dental Implants

- Function, look, and feel like natural teeth

- Preserve jawbone and prevent facial collapse

- No adhesives, no removal, no adjusting

- No impact on neighboring teeth (unlike bridges)

- Success rate of approximately 98% in healthy patients

- Track record of lasting 30+ years

- Never decay or require a root canal

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

Feature

Dental Implants

Fixed Bridge

Removable Dentures

Replaces the root

Yes

No

No

Preserves jawbone

Yes

No

No

Affects adjacent teeth

No

Yes

No

Fixed in place

Yes

Yes

No

Average lifespan

30+ years

7–10 years

5–7 years

Requires adhesives

No

No

Usually

Bridges last an average of 7 to 10 years before needing replacement. Removable full dentures are functional for about 5 years on average and require relining as the bone beneath them changes shape. Implants with proper care can last a lifetime.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Charlotte?

Most patients who are missing teeth are potential candidates. The key factors are:

- Sufficient bone at the implant site (or willingness to pursue bone grafting if needed)

- Healthy gum tissue, or gum disease that can be treated before implant placement

- Good general health with no uncontrolled conditions that affect healing

Age is not a barrier. We place implants for patients of all ages. Patients who have been told they "can't have implants" due to bone loss are encouraged to come in for an evaluation; many are candidates once the clinical picture is fully assessed.

The only way to know for certain is through a proper evaluation with imaging. We assess candidacy at your consultation and provide a clear picture of what treatment would involve before any work begins.

Dental Implants for Seniors in Charlotte

Tooth loss is more common with age, but age is not a contraindication to dental implants. Clinical studies show high implant success rates in older adults, including those with well-managed health conditions. Many of our patients are seniors who have worn dentures for years and are choosing a permanent, stable solution.

If you have questions about implants in the context of your specific health history, your periodontist will address them directly at your consultation.

Same-Day Dental Implants in Charlotte

For certain candidates, a provisional, fixed prosthetic can be placed on the day of implant surgery, a process sometimes called same-day implants or immediate loading. Whether this approach is appropriate depends on bone quality, implant stability at placement, and the specific clinical situation. Your periodontist will coordinate with your restorative dentist and advise you on whether same-day loading is an option during your evaluation.

What Dental Implants Cost in Charlotte, NC

Implant costs vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced, whether preparatory procedures (extraction, bone grafting, periodontal treatment) are needed, and the type of final restoration. We provide a complete cost breakdown at your consultation.

Many dental plans now cover some portion of implant-related treatment. We'll help you understand your benefits. Financing options are also available.

When comparing costs, it's worth considering the long-term picture. Dentures need replacement every 5 to 7 years. Bridges last 7 to 10. Implants can last decades, often making them the more cost-effective solution over time. Learn more → [Dental Implant Cost Charlotte NC]

Why Choose CharlottePerio for Dental Implants?

CharlottePerio is a periodontal specialty practice, not a general dental office. Our periodontists are specialists in the bone and gum tissue that implants depend on. That expertise matters, particularly for patients with gum disease history, bone loss, or complex cases.

- All our doctors are board-certified periodontists

- Periodontal specialty practice serving Charlotte since 1973

- In-office bone grafting, periodontal therapy, and extractions

- Collaborative care with your general or restorative dentist

- Members of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and American Board of Periodontology (ABP)

- Located at 3535 Randolph Road, Suite 103-R, Charlotte, NC