Dental Implants in Malden, MA

How Dental Implants Work at Gentle Dental

Initial Consultation

At Gentle Dental, our implant dentists will start with a comprehensive evaluation, including digital imaging and a thorough examination of your oral health. This helps us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Procedure

Our dental implant specialist will place the implant into the jawbone, acting as a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth. The procedure is performed using the latest technology and techniques to ensure precision and comfort.

Healing and Integration

After the implant is placed, a healing period of a few months is needed for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. During this time, a temporary crown may be placed to maintain appearance and function.

Abutment Placement

Once the implant has integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant. This connector piece will hold the new tooth securely.

Crown Placement

The final step involves attaching a custom-made crown to the abutment. This crown is designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size, providing a natural appearance and seamless function.

Post-Procedure Care

Our team provides detailed post-procedure care instructions to ensure proper healing and maintenance. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Advanced Technology and Techniques

We use state-of-the-art facilities and the latest dental technology, including 3D imaging and CEREC, to ensure precise placement and optimal results. Our experienced team is dedicated to making the entire process as comfortable and effective as possible.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Each treatment plan is customized to meet your needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Our commitment to personalized care makes us a top choice for dental implant services in Malden.

Types of Dental Implants at Gentle Dental

There are two main types of dental implants that we offer at Gentle Dental Malden, each designed to address specific patient needs and oral conditions.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and are ideal for patients with sufficient healthy bone. These implants can be used as an alternative to dental bridges or removable dentures, offering a permanent solution for missing teeth.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are used when there is not enough healthy jawbone to support an endosteal implant, often due to bone loss or an unusual jaw shape. Instead of being placed into the jawbone, these implants rest on top of the jawbone but underneath the gum tissue, providing a viable option for patients with insufficient bone density.

Types of Implant Arrangements

The number and arrangement of implants depend on the number of teeth that need to be replaced:

Individual Tooth Implants

These are used to replace a single missing tooth, providing a natural-looking solution that doesn’t require altering adjacent teeth.

Multiple Teeth Implants

If more than one tooth is missing, multiple implants can be placed to restore the gap. These implants work together to replace several missing teeth, providing strength and stability.

Full-Mouth Dental Implants

For patients with no remaining teeth, full-mouth dental implants offer a complete solution. The number of implants used will vary depending on your oral health and bone structure. Full-mouth implants restore both function and aesthetics to your smile.

Mini Implants

Mini implants are smaller and narrower than traditional implants and are often used to stabilize lower dentures. They provide additional support for dentures, preventing slippage and improving comfort.

Benefits and Risks of Dental Implants at Gentle Dental

Dental implants can significantly improve the quality of life and the oral health of individuals who need them. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks to consider. Complications can occur soon after the implant placement or may develop later on. In some cases, complications may result in implant failure, defined as implant loosening or loss, which could require another surgical procedure to correct or replace the implant.

Benefits of Dental Implant Systems

• Restores the ability to chew: Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing for normal eating and chewing.
• Restores cosmetic appearance: Implants improve the look of your smile by replacing missing teeth with a natural-looking alternative.
• Helps keep the jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss: Implants help prevent bone resorption, which typically occurs when teeth are lost.
• Preserves the health of the surrounding bone and gums: Implants promote healthy bone growth and maintain gum health, keeping surrounding teeth stable.
• Helps keep adjacent teeth stable: Implants prevent surrounding teeth from shifting or moving into the space of the missing tooth.
• Improves quality of life: With dental implants, you can smile confidently, eat comfortably, and live without the worry of dentures slipping.

Risks Associated with Dental Implant Systems

• Damage to surrounding natural teeth: During implant placement, there may be a risk of damaging nearby teeth.
• Injury to surrounding tissues during surgery: This could include sinus perforation or injury to other tissues in the mouth or jaw.
• Surgical injury: For example, there could be a fracture of the surrounding jawbone during the procedure.
• Inadequate function: Sometimes, implants may feel like they don't bite together normally or may not provide the expected functionality.
• Implant looseness or twisting: This can result from an abutment screw loosening, causing discomfort and instability.
• Implant body failure: The implant body can loosen due to:
  • Systemic infection, particularly in patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
  • Local infection in the bone and gums around the implant.
  • Delayed healing, which is more common in smokers.
  • Difficulty cleaning the gums around the implant: Improper oral hygiene can result in plaque buildup and gum disease.
  • Untreated periodontal disease: If gum disease isn't properly treated before implant placement, it can lead to complications.
  • Post-surgical numbness: Nerve impingement or damage during surgery may result in numbness or tingling in the surrounding area.

Important Reminder: Always notify your healthcare providers and imaging technicians about your dental implants before any MRI or X-ray procedures. Implants may interfere with these images, and while the FDA has not reported any adverse effects from MRI or X-ray procedures, it’s always important to inform them of the implants.

Alternatives to Dental Implants

While dental implants are a highly effective solution, there are alternatives for those who may not be candidates for implants:

• Dental Bridges: Bridges are used to fill gaps created by missing teeth by attaching to adjacent teeth.
• Dentures: A removable option for replacing missing teeth, dentures are custom-designed to fit the patient’s mouth and restore function.
• Veneers: Veneers are a cosmetic option that alters the appearance of existing teeth but cannot replace missing teeth.

At Gentle Dental, our team will guide you through the best options for your individual needs, helping you restore both the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.

Explore Dental Implant Solutions at Gentle Dental

At Gentle Dental, we offer a variety of dental implant solutions to meet your needs:

Single Tooth Implants
Perfect for replacing a single missing tooth, providing a natural look and function.

Implant-Supported Bridges
Ideal for replacing multiple missing teeth, offering a stable and long-lasting solution.

All-on-4 Implants
A full-arch restoration using only four implants provides a secure and efficient option for complete tooth replacement.

Implant-Supported Dentures
For those seeking a more secure alternative to traditional dentures, offering improved comfort and stability.

Mini Implants
A less invasive option for those with less bone density, suitable for stabilizing dentures or small tooth replacements.

How to Manage Dental Implants After the Procedure

After your dental implant surgery, you can expect some normal side effects as your body begins the healing process. Here’s what to anticipate and how to manage the recovery:

Swelling

It's common to experience swelling of your gums and face around the implant site. Applying a cold compress to the area in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling.

Minor Bleeding

Some bleeding is normal immediately after the procedure. Gently biting on a gauze pad can help control the bleeding. If bleeding continues, contact us at Gentle Dental Malden for advice.

Bruising

Bruising of your skin and gums may occur as a result of the surgery. This should subside within a few days, and applying a cold compress can also help minimize bruising.

Pain at the Implant Site

Mild discomfort is expected after the surgery. Pain medication may be recommended to alleviate soreness. Always follow your dentist’s instructions on dosage and frequency.

Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up

Stitches

Typically, the dental surgeon uses self-dissolving stitches that do not need removal. If your stitches are not dissolving, your doctor will schedule an appointment to remove them after a few days.

Medications

To manage pain and reduce the risk of infection, your dentist may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics. Be sure to follow the prescribed dosage and finish your entire course of antibiotics.

Dietary Adjustments

For the first few days, stick to soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the implant site to prevent irritation or complications.

Oral Hygiene

While it’s important to keep the area clean, avoid brushing directly on the implant site for the first few days. Gently rinse with salt water or an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep the area clean and promote healing.

At Gentle Dental Malden, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.

Why Choose Gentle Dental Malden

Expert, Experienced Team

Our dentists and oral surgeons at Gentle Dental Malden bring years of training and hands-on experience, ensuring your implant or dental treatment is done accurately and professionally.

Personalized Care Plans

We understand every patient is unique, so we design treatment and after-care plans tailored to your oral health and lifestyle needs.

Modern, Advanced Technology

From digital imaging to contemporary implant tools and materials, our clinic uses the latest dental technology to maximize comfort, safety, and outcomes.

Comfort and Compassion

We know dental procedures can be stressful. That’s why we prioritize patient comfort, with clear communication and gentle care before, during, and after treatment.

Transparent Pricing and Flexible Options

We provide clear cost estimates and help you understand insurance/financing options — so you know what to expect before treatment begins.

Comprehensive Services Under One Roof

Whether you need an implant, oral surgery, general dentistry, or follow-up care — we handle it all, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Long-Term Patient Support & Follow-up

At Gentle Dental Malden, we don’t just complete your procedure — we follow up with after-care guidance and regular check-ups to ensure lasting oral health and satisfaction.

Dental Implant Cost

Dental implants can range from $1,500 to $5,000 for a single implant. Additional expenses such as abutments, crowns, and potential bone grafting may apply. Please contact our office directly for a detailed estimate and to discuss the most cost-effective options for your needs.