Dental Implants in Wilmington, NC

Dental implants are a long-term solution to tooth loss and are the replacement that dentists most often recommend, with good reason!

Unlike removable dentures or partials, you won’t experience problems with slipping or shifting, and implants don’t require a specialized daily care routine beyond regular brushing and flossing. We do not need to alter existing, healthy teeth with dental implants; we can support a dental bridge with implants. 

Do I Need Dental Implants?

For many people, missing teeth present a mostly cosmetic problem, which is a legitimate concern: Missing teeth carry a stigma, and people with missing teeth may find themselves unfairly judged in many social settings.

Unfortunately, the problem of missing teeth goes beyond aesthetics. Tooth loss puts additional stress on your remaining teeth, leading to damage such as fractures and breakage. You may find it difficult or even painful to enjoy the fresh, healthy foods you need for proper nutrition and nourishment.

One or more missing teeth can eventually lead to significant bone loss in your jaw as the bone atrophies from lack of use. Over time, jawbone loss leads to visible changes in your face and causes a prematurely aged appearance.

Dental implants will stop bone loss in its tracks, which even dentures and partials cannot do. If you need dental implants in Wilmington, NC, contact us today!

The Benefits of Modern Dental Implant Technology

At Lighthouse Dental, we combine innovation and precision to deliver exceptional outcomes with dental implants in Wilmington, NC and beyond. Our office uses advanced digital imaging, 3D planning, and guided implant placement to create a seamless experience for every patient. This technology allows us to design implants that perfectly match your natural teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit and a beautiful result. By using high-grade titanium and durable materials, we help patients enjoy long-lasting stability and restored confidence.

What to Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure

When you visit Lighthouse Dental for dental implants in Wilmington, NC and beyond, we’ll start with a detailed consultation to assess your oral health and bone structure. Our dentist will take digital scans and X-rays to create a personalized treatment plan. Once ready, the implant post—made of medical-grade titanium—is placed into the jawbone. This post serves as the new root of your tooth and will naturally fuse with the surrounding bone during the healing process. After the implant integrates securely, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to restore full function and appearance. Each step is carefully monitored to ensure precision and comfort.

Healing and Recovery After Implant Placement

Recovery after implant surgery is usually smooth, thanks to the minimally invasive techniques used at Lighthouse Dental. Most patients experience only mild tenderness for a few days, easily managed with over-the-counter medication and proper care. Our team will provide personalized instructions to help your mouth heal quickly and comfortably.

As your jawbone fuses with the implant, it becomes a stable, permanent foundation for your new tooth. Regular checkups allow us to track your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments. With dedicated support from our experienced staff, you can expect long-term success and improved oral health that enhances both function and appearance. Call us today for dental implants in Wilmington, NC and beyond.

How to Care for Your Dental Implants

Caring for your new dental implants in Wilmington, NC and beyond is simple and essential for maintaining their longevity. Just like natural teeth, implants require consistent brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings to keep your gums healthy. Avoid using your teeth to open packages or chew on hard objects to prevent damage to your restoration.

At Lighthouse Dental, we’ll help you establish a personalized home-care routine that suits your needs. We also encourage regular visits for maintenance and professional exams to keep your implant and surrounding tissues in top condition. With the right care and regular checkups, your dental implants can last a lifetime—restoring not just your smile, but your confidence and quality of life.

While most healthy adults are eligible for tooth implants, some health conditions can affect placement results.

When you visit our office to discuss dental implants, we will ask several questions about your health history. These questions help us determine whether dental implants are the right option for you. Don’t worry—even if you have a health concern, we can likely work with you. We need to know about any conditions and take the necessary precautions to account for them.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Before beginning the implant process, we perform a full examination, including x-rays. Because the implant is attached directly to your jaw, we need to know the condition of your bone. Our dentist may recommend bone grafts and other procedures to build up your jawbone if necessary.

We then place the titanium implant post in your jawbone. When you have healed sufficiently, we may place a temporary crown over the implant while waiting for your permanent crown to return from the dental lab.

When your final crown returns from the dental lab, you will return to our office so we can place it on your dental implant. The final step is to check the crown for fit and appearance, and your implant will be complete.

For more information about tooth implants or to schedule an appointment, please call our dental practice today.