Dental Implants in North Branch and Caro, MI
If you have a missing tooth and it’s causing you issues, dental implants may be for you. Dental implants are used as a form of restorative dentistry to help replace missing teeth. Thumbs Up Dental offers affordable dental services, including dental implants in North Branch and Caro, MI.
How is a dental implant different from a dental bridge?
A dental implant will act as an artificial tooth root for a replacement tooth. It differs from dental bridges because it replaces the entire tooth root instead of attaching a pontic tooth to an adjacent natural tooth. Dental implants are bonded directly to the jawbone and will act as an anchor for the replacement tooth.
How does a dental implant procedure work?
Your dentist will start with an assessment of your teeth to ensure you are a good candidate for dental implants. If no additional surgery is required, local anesthesia is administered, and an incision will be made in the gums to expose the jawbone. The dental implant will then be inserted into the jawbone, and once in place, it will be stitched up. Three to six months are needed to allow the implant and bone tissue to fuse properly. Follow-up checkups may be required to ensure there aren’t any issues during the healing process. Once healed, an abutment will be attached to the implant before a replacement tooth is added. A dental crown procedure will then be fitted as a cap for the replacement tooth, protecting it from potential damage.
Are dental implants risky?
Dental implant surgery is a routine procedure performed by our practitioners. While there is the chance of complications that may arise from the surgery, generally, the procedure is well received, and our patients have a pleasant experience. Post-surgery care is more crucial, and follow-up checkups may be required, as we’ll want to minimize the risk of an infection developing.
Are you looking to have a dental implant done? Contact us at Thumbs Up Dental to schedule your appointment at our dental clinic today! If you need more information on our available payment options, kindly head to our insurance and financing page to learn more about our accepted payment methods.
FAQs
What exactly are dental implants, and how do they differ from bridges or dentures?
Dental implants are small titanium posts placed into your jawbone to act like the roots of missing teeth. They allow a strong, stable foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and work like natural ones. Unlike traditional dentures or fixed bridges, implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support and don’t rest on the gums in the same way—reducing bone loss and enhancing long-term comfort.
Am I an eligible candidate for dental implants at your North Branch or Caro offices?
Great question! You're typically a good candidate if you: have one or more missing teeth, are in good all-round health, and have sufficient bone in your jaw (or are willing to explore bone grafting). Even if you’ve been told in the past you weren’t eligible, our team at Thumbs Up Dental can assess your situation, review your health history, and determine the right plan for you.
Does getting an implant hurt, and what’s recovery like?
While any surgical or clinical procedure comes with some discomfort, most patients describe implant placement as quite manageable. We provide detailed care instructions. You might expect mild soreness and swelling for a few days, but many return to normal routines quickly. Our team will make sure you’re comfortable and informed every step of the way
How long do dental implants last—and how do I care for them?
With the right type of care, dental implants can last many decades—often for the rest of your life. The key is regular brushing, flossing, attending routine cleanings, and managing any health conditions (like diabetes) that might affect healing. Since our team at Thumbs Up Dental emphasises long-term outcomes, we’ll provide you with a full care plan.
Are dental implants at your office affordable—what about insurance and financing?
We understand affordability is important. At our North Branch and Caro offices, we provide clear pricing and are here to help you in exploring your dental insurance coverage. We also provide flexible financing options to help you move ahead confidently with your treatment. Let’s talk through the numbers, so you know exactly what to expect.
What happens if I’ve been missing a tooth for a long time—can I still get an implant?
Yes—you absolutely can still get a dental implant even if a tooth has been missing for some time. In some cases, missing teeth can pave the way to bone loss. Our team will evaluate your bone structure and may recommend procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift to build the foundation you need. We’ll customise your treatment so you can still enjoy the benefits of an implant
