Replacing missing teeth is a decision that could change your life, and choosing dental implants at Cornerstone Dentistry in Covington means choosing care that supports both your health and your confidence. Dental implants are one of the most advanced options for rebuilding your smile because they replace the entire tooth, allowing your bite, speech, and comfort to feel more natural than removable appliances. At our Covington office, we focus on building a trusting relationship with you first, then using modern technology to design predictable implant outcomes.

As Dr. Keleigh Lascari, DDS, explains, “When someone comes to us for dental implants, we aren’t just treating a missing tooth. We’re helping them restore their faith in dentistry and get back to a more comfortable life.” That philosophy guides every step of the process, from consultation to long-term maintenance.

Understanding How Dental Implants Work

To understand why so many patients choose implants, it helps to know how they function. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to act like a replacement tooth root. Once healed, the implant becomes a stable anchor for a custom crown, bridge, or full-arch restoration. Unlike dentures that sit on the gums or bridges that depend on adjacent teeth, an implant integrates with the bone to create a stable foundation. This integration is what helps implants feel strong and natural.

Why People Choose Implants

Patients often consider implants when they want a solution that feels as close to natural teeth as possible. Many people visit us because they are tired of removable dentures or they want a long-term option designed to help protect their oral health. Here are some common reasons patients ask about implants:

• Replacing a single missing tooth
• Replacing several teeth at once
• Improving the stability of a loose denture
• Restoring severely damaged or unsalvageable teeth

For those who are candidates for dental implants, they can restore both aesthetics and function, so they can finally feel comfortable eating, speaking, and smiling.

Advantages Over Traditional Restorations

While each treatment has its place, implants offer benefits that go beyond filling space. They are designed to help protect nearby teeth by avoiding the need to reduce healthy enamel for a bridge. Implants also support bone health by stimulating the jaw the way natural roots would. This stimulation may help reduce long-term bone loss, which is a common issue after teeth are removed.

Patients also appreciate how secure implants feel when they chew. Enjoying a poboy at Bear’s or taking a bite of boudin at the Covington Farmers Market becomes easier with a restoration that stays put. A stable bite helps you enjoy the foods you love without worrying about slipping dentures.

Who May Be a Candidate for Dental Implants

Most adults with missing teeth can be considered for implants, as long as their gums and bone are healthy enough to support the post. Strong oral hygiene habits are important because the tissue around the implant must stay healthy long-term. Many patients who were once told they were not candidates for dental implants may now be eligible, because bone grafting and other techniques can help strengthen weak areas.

During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your bone structure using digital and 3D imaging. This allows us to measure bone density and choose the most strategic implant placement. Dr. Lascari will also review your medical history, comfort preferences, and long-term goals to determine whether implants are right for you.

What Happens during a Dental Implant Consultation

Your consultation is your time to ask questions, talk openly about your concerns, and explore what dental implants may do for your health. At Cornerstone Dentistry, we begin with a relaxed conversation before moving into diagnostics. We use detailed imaging, such as 3D scans, to evaluate implant placement with precision. These scans allow us to identify the ideal angle, width, and depth for each implant and may reduce the risk of future complications.

You will also learn about treatment phases, healing expectations, and options for sedation if you are anxious about dental care. We review any health concerns, your budget, and insurance benefits and may discuss financing choices to make implant care easier to manage. Every patient receives a customized plan designed to present clear choices and transparent pricing.

Step-by-Step Implant Treatment

Although every patient is unique, implant treatment generally follows a predictable structure.

Preparing the Area for Placement

Any damaged teeth that are still present will need to be removed to make room for the implant(s). Some patients benefit from bone grafting to help strengthen the jaw and support the implant. Grafting material is designed to encourage bone growth so the implant can bond securely.

Placing the Implant Post

Once you are numb and comfortable, the titanium post is gently placed into the bone. Patients are often surprised at how straightforward this step feels. Many say it is no more intimidating than getting a regular filling.

Healing and Osseointegration

The healing phase allows your bone to bond with the implant. This natural process, called osseointegration, typically takes a few months but is important for creating lasting stability. Temporary teeth can be provided so that you do not have to go without a smile during healing.

Final Restoration

Once integration is complete, the crown or prosthetic is attached to the implant. Because we use Mono™ dental implants with a one-piece design, we’re able to skip the extra procedure typically used to place the connection screw to your final restoration. Your final crown will be custom-made to match your bite and blend with your smile, and attached securely to your one-piece implant. As Dr. Lascari says, “The goal is to create a tooth that feels secure, looks natural, and supports your quality of life.”

Life with Dental Implants

Most patients adjust quickly to their implant once the restoration is in place. Eating and speaking may feel familiar again because the implant functions much like a natural tooth. Caring for your implant is also simple. You can brush and floss as usual while keeping up with routine cleanings. To protect your long-term results, our team monitors the implant during your preventive visits and checks the surrounding tissue for stability.

If you clench or grind your teeth, we may recommend a nightguard to reduce excess pressure. Avoiding tobacco is also important for keeping your gum and bone tissue healthy around the implant.

Explore Dental Implants in Covington

If you are considering dental implants in Covington, the first step is a consultation that prioritizes your comfort and clarifies your choices. At Cornerstone Dentistry, we combine advanced diagnostics with a relationship-focused approach so you can feel confident from start to finish. Many patients find that implants provide a secure, natural-looking smile that supports everyday comfort and function.

We invite you to schedule a visit and learn how modern implant dentistry can help you enjoy life the way you’re meant to live it. You can contact us anytime to learn more or to reserve your appointment.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions. Your results may vary.