What Makes Implants Different

Dental implants replace the visible tooth and the root beneath your gums, making them the only tooth replacement option that addresses the complete tooth structure. A titanium post gets surgically placed into your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a natural process called osseointegration. This fusion creates a stable foundation that functions like a natural tooth root.

Once the implant has integrated with your bone, Dr. Fernandez attaches an abutment (a connector piece) and then a custom crown that perfectly matches your natural teeth. The result looks, feels, and functions like the tooth you lost. You can bite into an apple, chew steak, and smile confidently without worrying about your restoration slipping or failing.

Unlike bridges, which require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth for support, implants stand independently. This preservation of healthy tooth structure represents a significant advantage. Implants also prevent the bone loss that occurs when tooth roots are missing, maintaining facial structure and keeping you looking younger.

The Complete Implant Process

We offer the whole procedure, from extraction to placement and restoration, and are happy to discuss your options before your treatment. Having everything done in one practice simplifies the process and ensures consistent, coordinated care from start to finish.

Initial Consultation and Planning

Your implant journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Manzanares examines your mouth, takes detailed X-rays or 3D scans, and assesses your jawbone density. These diagnostic tools help determine if you’re a good candidate for implants and allow careful planning of implant placement for optimal results.

During this consultation, Dr. Fernandez discusses your medical history, any medications you take, and your expectations for treatment. Certain health conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking, can affect healing, and these factors need consideration when planning your treatment.

Tooth Extraction (If Needed)

If the damaged tooth hasn’t been removed yet, extraction comes first. Dr. Fernandez performs extractions carefully to preserve as much bone as possible, which supports better implant success. Sometimes, he can place the implant immediately after extraction, shortening your treatment timeline.

After extraction, your jawbone needs time to heal before implant placement. This healing period typically lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on your situation and whether any bone grafting is needed.

Bone Grafting When Necessary

Not everyone has sufficient bone density or volume for implant placement. Years of missing teeth, gum disease, or natural aging can diminish jawbone mass. When this happens, Dr. Manzanares may recommend bone grafting to build up the area before placing your implant.

Bone grafting adds material to your jaw that stimulates new bone growth. The grafting material can come from various sources and gradually gets replaced by your own natural bone over several months. While grafting extends your treatment timeline, it creates the foundation for long-term implant success.

Implant Placement Surgery

Once your bone is ready, Dr. Fernandez surgically places the titanium implant post into your jawbone. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and many patients are surprised by how comfortable it is. The implant is positioned at the precise angle and depth planned during your consultation.

After placement, your gum tissue is sutured closed over or around the implant, and the healing begins. Over the next three to six months, osseointegration occurs as your bone cells grow around and bond with the titanium post. This integration creates the incredible stability that makes implants so successful.

You’ll likely wear a temporary restoration during the healing period so you never have teeth in visible areas.

Abutment Placement and Final Restoration

Once osseointegration is complete, Dr. Manzanares attaches the abutment to your implant. This small connector piece protrudes above your gumline and serves as the anchor for your final crown. Your gums need a week or two to heal around the abutment before the final step.

Dr. Fernandez takes impressions to create your custom crown, which is crafted to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. When your crown is ready, it gets secured to the abutment, completing your restoration. The finished implant looks natural and functions perfectly for biting, chewing, and smiling.

Benefits That Matter

Dental implants in Albuquerque offer advantages no other tooth replacement can match. They prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone like natural tooth roots do. This preservation maintains your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that often develops with missing teeth.

Implants don’t slip or click when you talk or eat, eliminating the embarrassing moments denture wearers sometimes experience. You can eat all your favorite foods without restrictions or worries. The restoration feels like part of your body because it becomes one through osseointegration.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. After 10 to 15 years of wear, the crown may eventually need replacement, but the implant typically remains indefinitely stable. This longevity makes implants a smart long-term investment in your oral health.

Caring for Your Implants

Implants require the same care as natural teeth—brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and regular dental checkups. Dr. Manzanares monitors your implant during routine visits to ensure the surrounding gum tissue stays healthy and the restoration remains secure.

Avoid smoking, as tobacco use significantly increases implant failure rates. Good overall health and stable chronic conditions like diabetes also improve outcomes.

Are You a Candidate?

Most healthy adults with missing teeth qualify as candidates for dental implants. Age isn’t a limiting factor—what matters is having adequate bone density, healthy gums, and good overall health. Dr. Fernandez evaluates each case individually to determine if implants are right for you.

Even if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate due to bone loss, advances in grafting techniques often make implants possible. It’s worth getting a current evaluation to explore your options.

Dental Implants in Albuquerque

Contact our office at 505-898-8063 to learn more and meet with our dentist. Dr. Gilbert Fernandez and Dr. Michael Manzanares provide comprehensive dental implants that give you back the confidence and function you deserve. You’ll receive expert care focused on delivering beautiful, lasting results from your initial consultation through your final restoration.