Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants in St. Louis, MO

Your Questions Answered by an Implant Dentist Near You

Ready to transform your smile with natural-looking dental implants? Dr. Brace and our experienced team at St. Louis County Dental have helped countless patients throughout Woodbine, Kirkwood, and Clayton regain their confidence and enjoy all their favorite foods again. Our dental implant specialists near you combine advanced training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry to deliver results that look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Take advantage of our special $1 consultation offer and discover how dental implants can restore both your smile and your quality of life. Our full-service approach means you’ll receive comprehensive care in one convenient location at prices that fit your budget.

Call St. Louis County Dental today at 314-762-6784 to schedule your $1 consultation and take the first step toward your new smile!

Real Stories From Our Dental Implant Patients

At St. Louis County Dental, we’re more than just a dental practice—we’re a team dedicated to transforming lives through exceptional care. Our patients’ experiences speak to the heart of what we do. Read their stories below to see why we’re the trusted choice for dental implants and cosmetic dentistry in St. Louis.

• M. Harris
  “Incredible dentist. Dr. Grayem was able to help me fix my tooth when several other dentists had told me it couldn’t be done. He was able to do a dental implant in a very challenging location. I had nearly no pain following the surgery, and the implant was successful (knock on wood it stays that way!). Not only was he very talented, he and his staff were very welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend.”
• D. Barker
  “I’m so pleased with my experience with your office. I followed Dr. Bialecki from O’Fallon where he helped me keep my teeth for years, and I joked that all my visits helped upgrade the office. When it was time for denture implants, there was no other choice; I didn’t even consider another doctor, even though I have to drive an hour to your office. I couldn’t be happier with all the care I’ve received. Ari has taken care of me more than once, and her sweet spirit and kindness just make my day better by being around her. She’s professional, caring, and very personable. She’s a great listener about patient concerns and excellent about communicating those to the doctor. I couldn’t have had a better experience today. And your office has made this whole ‘denture adventure’ much more pleasant than I expected. Thank you all so much!”

Ready to write your own success story? Schedule your $1 consultation today at www.stlouiscosmeticdentist.com or call us at 314-762-6784. Join the countless patients from Kirkwood, Woodbine, Clayton, and beyond who’ve rediscovered their confidence with St. Louis County Dental.

About St. Louis County Dental, Your Implant Dentist

What services does St. Louis County Dental offer?

St. Louis County Dental specializes in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and comprehensive oral surgery. Our experienced team provides everything from single tooth replacement to full-arch restorations, ensuring patients receive personalized care in a comfortable environment.

Where is St. Louis County Dental located?

St. Louis County Dental is conveniently located at 469 S Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, in the heart of Kirkwood, a charming and family-friendly suburb in St. Louis County. We’re in the Woodbine Center shopping plaza, between the Qdoba and Subway. 

We share an ample parking lot with our neighboring businesses. Street parking is also plentiful nearby.

Does St. Louis County Dental accept dental insurance?

Yes, we work with most major dental insurance providers. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental implants, particularly the implant post itself. Our team will help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits.

What should I expect during my first consultation?

Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive oral examination, digital X-rays or CT scans to assess bone density, a discussion of your dental goals, and a personalized treatment plan. We’ll review all options, answer your questions, and provide a detailed cost estimate.

Do you offer financing options for dental implant procedures?

Yes, we make achieving your dream smile accessible with flexible financing options tailored to your needs. We partner with leading third-party providers like CareCredit, LendingClub, Proceed, and Cherry, allowing you to apply quickly and securely in our office—often with approval in minutes and no impact to your credit. 

Payment plans start for purchases as low as $200, with terms up to 84 months for larger treatments, featuring benefits such as low monthly payments, no-interest options, zero-down financing, no prepayment penalties, and simple online/phone applications. These options cover a full range of services, including implants and cosmetic treatments.

About Dental Implants

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Good candidates for dental implants have good oral health and adequate bone in the jaw to support the implants. Ideal candidates don’t smoke or have chronic illnesses that could interfere with healing after surgery. Your dentist will perform scans and evaluations to determine if you have enough bone density and volume for dental implants.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for dental implants?

A dentist can evaluate whether you have enough healthy bone mass and density through X-rays, CT scans, or clinical examination to determine if implants can be successfully placed and integrated into your jaw. They also consider your oral hygiene and general health to determine candidacy.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Studies show over 95 percent of implants successfully integrate and remain functionally stable for over ten years. As technology continues to advance, implants placed correctly and cared for properly may never need replacement.

Do dental implants have metal in them?

The screw surgically implanted into the jawbone is made from titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses naturally with bone. The abutment and dental crown attached to the implant post can be porcelain fused to metal, all-porcelain, or zirconia depending on aesthetic requirements. Porcelain and zirconia mimic natural tooth appearance.

Do dental implants feel natural?

In most cases, dental implants are comfortable and feel natural like your own teeth once the site has fully healed and the replacement teeth are in place. The crown and bridge look and function similarly to natural teeth. As the bone integrates with the implant, it anchors securely to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth.

Will implants affect or damage healthy teeth?

No, dental implants don’t damage healthy teeth, as they fuse directly to the jawbone without affecting neighboring teeth. Implants are anchored into the bone, so they don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support. The crown attached to the implant matches the color, shape, and contour of your natural teeth.

Can dental implants replace multiple teeth?

Yes, several implant posts can be placed to support a full-arch bridge to replace multiple missing teeth. The number of implants needed depends on the available bone at the site, which differs across individuals. Comprehensive assessments help determine how many teeth can be replaced.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost for dental implant treatment varies depending on the location and condition of the jawbone and whether other procedures are simultaneously performed, such as bone grafts or extractions. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your specific treatment plan.

Are dental implants better than bridges or dentures?

Dental implants offer several advantages over bridges and traditional dentures. They preserve jawbone health, don’t require altering adjacent teeth, provide superior stability, and can last a lifetime with proper care. Your dentist will help you determine the best option for your situation.

About Oral Surgery and the Implant Procedure

How painful is getting dental implants?

Getting dental implants requires oral surgery; however, it is typically not very painful with local anesthesia. There may be some swelling and soreness that is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication in the days following the procedure. Your dentist will evaluate your pain tolerance and ensure the area is sufficiently numbed during surgery.

How long does the dental implant procedure take?

The surgical placement of a single implant typically takes one to two hours. However, if multiple implants are being placed or if bone grafting is required, the procedure may take longer. Your dentist will provide a time estimate based on your specific treatment plan.

What is osseointegration?

Osseointegration is the process by which the titanium implant fuses with your jawbone. This typically takes eight to twelve weeks and is essential for the long-term success of the implant. During this time, the bone grows around the implant, creating a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.

Can the bone fail to fuse with the implant?

In a very small percentage of cases, the jawbone fails to fuse with the dental implant through osseointegration. This may be due to infection, mechanical issues with the implant itself, or poor bone density at the site. If this happens, it requires starting over with a new implant after sufficient healing time.

How long do I have to wait to get implants after tooth extraction?

Dental experts recommend waiting at least eight to twelve weeks after tooth extraction for adequate healing of the bone before attempting implant placement in the extraction site. This allows new bone to fill in the space, providing a solid foundation for the implant to integrate with.

What is bone grafting, and will I need it?

Bone grafting is a procedure that rebuilds or augments jawbone that has deteriorated due to tooth loss or gum disease. If you don’t have sufficient bone density or volume, a bone graft may be necessary before or during implant placement. Your dentist will determine if bone grafting is needed during your evaluation.

What are the different stages of dental implant treatment?

Dental implant treatment typically involves three stages: (one) surgical placement of the implant post into the jawbone, (two) a healing period of eight to twelve weeks for osseointegration, and (three) placement of the abutment and crown. Some cases may allow for immediate loading of the crown, which your dentist will discuss with you.

Recovery and Healing From Dental Implant Surgery

How long is the recovery time after getting implants?

The initial recovery time after getting dental implants is typically a few days to two weeks, depending on whether bone grafting is required at the time of surgery and how quickly you heal. Most patients can resume light activity after just two to three days and return to work within a week. Complete healing typically takes eight to twelve weeks.

What should I eat after dental implant surgery?

After surgery, stick to soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days. Avoid hot foods and beverages, hard or crunchy foods, and anything that requires excessive chewing. Gradually reintroduce regular foods as healing progresses and your dentist advises.

What can I do to promote faster healing after implant surgery?

To promote faster healing, follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully, take prescribed medications as directed, apply ice packs to reduce swelling, avoid smoking and alcohol, get plenty of rest, and maintain gentle oral hygiene. Avoid strenuous activity for the first few days.

Will implants affect or change how I speak?

After the initial adjustment period while healing and getting used to implants, they shouldn’t affect your speech at all. Well-integrated implants that firmly fuse with the jawbone provide a stable foundation for natural chewing and speaking ability once crowns or bridges are placed. With time, any differences fade.

When can I return to normal activities after implant surgery?

Most patients can return to light activities within two to three days and resume normal activities, including work, within a week. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that could impact your mouth for at least one to two weeks or as directed by your dentist.

Caring for Dental Implants

Do dental implants require special care?

Proper brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings are important for caring for implants. Some additional care, such as using interdental brushes, may be recommended depending on the type of implant and how tightly replacement teeth fit together. Your dentist will give you customized home care instructions.

How do I clean around my dental implants?

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss, and interdental brushes to clean around the implants, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Don’t use hard-bristled brushes or abrasive toothpaste, which could wear down the surfaces. Your dentist can demonstrate proper technique for keeping implants plaque-free at home.

Can implants get infected?

Yes, implants can get infected if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Bacteria can build up around the implant, which could lead to peri-implant disease. Make sure to brush and floss around implants daily. See your dentist regularly to have implants professionally cleaned and to detect and treat any infections early.

What is peri-implant disease?

Peri-implant disease is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues around dental implants, similar to gum disease around natural teeth. It can range from mild inflammation of the gums (peri-implant mucositis) to more serious bone loss (peri-implantitis). Prevention through proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits is essential.

Do I still need to see a dentist if I have implants?

Yes, regular dental visits are still essential for professional cleanings and monitoring of your implants and oral health even after getting implants. Your dentist needs to check that your bite and alignment are correct, screen for signs of peri-implant disease, and keep implants clean above and below the gumline.

How often should I have my dental implants professionally cleaned?

Most patients with dental implants should have professional cleanings every three to six months, though your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your individual oral health needs. Regular cleanings help prevent peri-implant disease and ensure the longevity of your implants.

Can I use an electric toothbrush on my dental implants?

Yes, electric toothbrushes are safe and often recommended for cleaning around dental implants. They can be more effective at removing plaque than manual brushing. Use a soft-bristled brush head and gentle pressure to avoid damaging the implant or surrounding tissues.

What products should I avoid when caring for dental implants?

Avoid abrasive toothpastes, hard-bristled toothbrushes, metal dental instruments, and smoking, as these can damage the implant surface or compromise healing and integration. Your dentist will recommend specific products that are safe and effective for cleaning your implants.