Healthy Smiles Require Teamwork — and a Surgeon’s Touch

When it comes to restoring your smile after tooth loss, few treatments match the strength and natural appearance of dental implants. As a periodontal specialist, Dr. Fred Alger performs precise dental implant surgery to replace missing teeth and rebuild confidence in your smile.

Working closely with your dentist, Dr. Alger ensures every phase of your dental implant procedure is completed with exceptional care—from the initial consultation to the final restoration.

Working Together to Craft Your Smile

Rebuilding a smile affected by missing teeth is a collaborative process. Dr. Alger partners with your dental provider to design a treatment plan that prioritizes your comfort, function, and long-term oral health.

This partnership allows your dental implant placement and restoration to align perfectly, resulting in a durable, natural-looking outcome that feels like your own teeth.

Surgical Phase

(Performed by Dr. Alger)
The surgical phase focuses on placing the implant — a small titanium post that functions like an artificial tooth root.

  1. Precise Placement – Dr. Alger gently inserts the dental implant into a carefully prepared site in the jawbone.
  2. Soft Tissue Closure – The gum tissue is sutured over or around the implant site to promote proper healing.
  3. Temporary Restoration – In most cases, your dentist will provide a temporary denture or partial to maintain appearance and function during healing.
  4. Bone Integration – Over the next few months, the bone naturally fuses to the implant through osseointegration, creating a strong, stable foundation.
  5. Healing Period – This process typically requires three to four months but can vary depending on bone density and overall oral health.

Restorative Phase

(Performed by Your Dentist)
After successful implant healing, your general dentist completes the restorative phase, attaching the replacement tooth or set of teeth.

  • Abutment Placement – A small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant post.
  • Fabrication of the Crown or Denture – The dental lab fabricates your custom crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture.
  • Final Attachment – The new restoration is securely fastened to the abutment, completing your tooth replacement.
  • Follow-Up Visits – Your dentist will monitor the fit, appearance, and comfort of your new teeth to ensure long-term success.

Depending on the condition of your jawbone and the number of implants, the total treatment time can range from three to twelve months.

Working Together for Your Comfort

At every stage of your dental implant procedure, patient comfort is our priority. Dr. Alger consults with each patient to determine the safest, most relaxing approach for their treatment.

We offer:

  • Local anesthesia for gentle numbing during oral surgery
  • Conscious sedation options, including nitrous oxide
  • Intravenous (IV) sedation for deeper relaxation during longer or more complex cases

If you’re anxious about your procedure or want to discuss sedation options, our team is happy to answer all your questions and ensure a stress-free experience.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they mimic the structure of natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants are anchored into the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.

Benefits include:

  • Long-term durability with success rates over 95% in the United States
  • Restored ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently
  • Preservation of adjacent teeth (no need to alter healthy structures)
  • Natural-looking results that improve your quality of life
  • Reduced risk of gum recession and complications from untreated tooth loss

With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, your dental implants can last decades, making them one of the most valuable investments in oral health.

Dental Implants FAQs

If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, we’re here to walk through your questions. Dr. Fred Alger and our team bring periodontic expertise and work closely with your dentist to craft a lasting, comfortable smile.

How long do dental implants last?

When properly cared for, dental implants can last for decades. The titanium post fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, creating a permanent foundation. Over time, the visible crown may need replacement due to natural wear.

Do implants work as well as natural teeth?

Yes. Once healed, dental implants look, feel, and function almost exactly like natural teeth, restoring full bite strength and comfort.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

Dr. Alger uses advanced anesthesia and sedation to ensure comfort during every procedure. Most patients describe mild soreness afterward that subsides within a few days.

Are dental implants safe?

Yes. Dental implant surgery is a widely accepted procedure backed by the American Dental Association (ADA) and regulated by the FDA. Allergic reactions to titanium are extremely rare.

How long is the healing process?

Most patients heal within three to four months, though full recovery may take longer depending on bone quality and oral hygiene habits.

Can implants replace multiple missing teeth?

Absolutely. Multiple implants can support a bridge or even a full denture, providing a stable, permanent solution for extensive tooth loss.