Dental Implants in ABQ

Brian K. Dennis, DDS PC provides dental implant services in Albuquerque, NM. Call 505-292-1051 to learn more and schedule your appointment. 

Dental implants are the best solution for missing teeth because they are the only option that replaces the root. This creates a stable foundation for replacement teeth and prevents bone loss in the jaw.

When it comes to implants, experience matters. Dr. Dennis is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, has certification as a Master Clinician in Implant Dentistry, and attended a dental implant training program at the Global Institute for Dental Education and Loma Linda University. Our office uses the latest technology and surgical techniques to ensure successful outcomes for our patients.

The most common type of dental implant, a single tooth implant has three components: the implant itself (a small post or screw that is placed in the jawbone), the abutment, and a crown which is anchored by the abutment. This type of implant looks and functions very much like a natural tooth.

Learn more about Single Tooth Dental Implants

When three or more adjacent teeth are missing, they can be replaced with an implant-supported bridge. Dental implants replace the two outermost missing teeth, with a porcelain bridge held between them. Implant-supported bridges are functional, aesthetic, and do not damage healthy teeth like traditional bridges.

Learn more about Implant Supported Bridges

Implant-supported dentures are a more natural alternative to traditional dentures for patients with sufficient jawbone density. For a partial denture, at least two dental implants are needed for support, while a full arch usually requires a minimum of four dental implants. These dentures can be fixed or removable (also known as “snap-on” dentures).

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are not held in place by an adhesive but are instead anchored by dental implants, which means they shift less and cause less discomfort. 

Learn more about Implant Supported Dentures

For patients who are missing all teeth on an upper or lower arch, this procedure uses four implants as anchors to support a full arch of replacement teeth. 

Using 3D imaging guided implant placement is possible. Guided implant placement allows us to create customized surgical guides that direct the exact depth, location, and angle for each dental implant being placed. This technology results in better patient outcomes because of improved accuracy, safety, and predictability.

Learn more about Guided Implant Placement

Yes, there are some dental implant procedures that can be completed in a single day, although most implant-based restorations require a series of appointments. When you come in for a consultation, we will determine if you are a candidate for a same-day dental implant procedure.

Dental implants cost more than dentures and bridges because dentures and bridges only replace the visible portion of your missing teeth. Dental implants also address tooth loss below the gum line by replacing the root, which means there are more costs involved. Both types of restorations include the cost of prosthetic teeth, but with dental implants you’ll also need to pay for the implants themselves, the surgery to place them, additional imaging and surgical planning, and any preliminary procedures that are needed like extractions or bone grafting.

Yes, dental implants are well worth the cost. There’s no other solution that looks, feels, and functions so much like natural teeth. In addition, dental implants prevent and even reverse bone loss in the jaw for a strong bite and more youthful appearance.

Local anesthetic is used to ensure that you experience no pain during your dental implant procedure. When this wears off, you’ll have some tenderness at the surgical site, but this can usually be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication.

Yes, an implant-supported denture or full arch with only four implants restoration can replace all of the teeth on both the upper and lower arches.