A missing tooth does more than change your smile — it changes how you chew, speak, and how your jawbone holds up over time. Smile Center Dentistry plans every case with 3D imaging before a single post goes in.
Implants fail when planning is rushed. We don't rush it. A surgical guide built from your own CBCT scan keeps the post exactly where the plan says it should go.
Every placement is performed or supervised by a licensed dentist with documented implant training, not a general practitioner learning on the job. We're glad to discuss the provider's specific implant case history if you ask.
We use 3D cone-beam imaging to map bone density and nerve position before recommending a single-stage or two-stage approach. Nerve position is confirmed on imaging first, which is what keeps placement safe near the lower jaw.
You'll see the cost of the post, abutment, and crown broken out separately, not bundled into a vague estimate. Financing options are discussed at consultation if the full cost is a concern.
We stand behind the restoration, not just the surgical placement. Ask about specifics before treatment — we'd rather you know upfront than discover it later.
Your treatment plan depends on bone density, tooth location, and how many teeth are missing.
One missing tooth, one implant, one crown — planned to blend in rather than stand out. Healing time is discussed upfront, typically three to six months before the final crown.
For multiple missing teeth in a row, two or more implants can anchor a fixed bridge instead of individual posts for every gap. We explain the trade-offs between this and single implants before you decide.
A full arch of replacement teeth can be supported on as few as four strategically placed implants. This option is discussed in detail with realistic timelines, not a same-day promise that overstates recovery.
Not every jaw is ready for an implant on day one — grafting buys the density needed for a stable, lasting post. We walk through healing time for grafts honestly, since it adds months, not days.
Regular checkups track bone level around the implant over time, catching problems long before they threaten the restoration. We build these checks into your recall schedule automatically.
For front-tooth cases where esthetics matter immediately, a temporary crown can sometimes be placed the same day as the post. We'll tell you honestly at your consult whether your case is a candidate.
We ask a few quick questions by phone to flag anything that needs extra attention at your consult.
You'll see your own scan on screen while we explain exactly what it shows.
You leave with a written plan, not a verbal estimate you have to remember.
The implant post is placed, allowed to integrate with the bone, then topped with your custom crown, bridge, or arch.
"They explained bone grafting to me in plain English before I agreed to anything — no surprise add-ons later."
"Four implants supporting my whole upper arch, and they told me realistic healing times instead of a rushed promise."
"The crown they matched to my implant is honestly indistinguishable from my real teeth."
"Itemized quote for the post, abutment, and crown separately — I actually understood what I was paying for."
"Checkups every few months to monitor bone level around my implant. Feels like they're actually watching for problems, not just billing me."
Full-arch cases can take longer depending on grafting needs — we give you a realistic timeline at your consult, not a rushed one. We check on integration progress at scheduled intervals rather than guessing when it's ready.
Often yes, with bone grafting first — the CBCT scan tells us exactly how much density you have and whether grafting is needed. Grafting adds time but often makes the difference between a stable implant and a failed one.
We break down post, abutment, and crown costs separately so you know exactly what you're paying for. We'd rather walk through the numbers together than have you guess at a website estimate.
We discuss sedation choices at your consult so you're comfortable with the plan going in. Post-procedure soreness is normal for a few days and manageable with standard pain relief.
Implants still need daily brushing and flossing, plus regular checkups to monitor the surrounding gum tissue. We show you specific cleaning techniques for around the implant at your follow-up visit.
Coverage varies widely by plan; we check yours and explain what's likely covered before you commit. We'll tell you plainly what's likely out-of-pocket before you schedule anything.
Our implant team serves Affton and the surrounding zip codes, so nearby residents don't have to travel far for 3D-guided planning. New patients researching implants for the first time are welcome to ask questions before committing to a scan.
Licensed, CBCT-equipped, and local to Affton — call and get a real answer about your case.
Call +1-866-227-2801