Dental Implants
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life.
Drs. Kim and Arrington have received extensive training in Implantology. Through continuing education, they keep abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.
Are you ready to smile with confidence again?
Our mission is to help patients live healthier lives. We provide a caring, nurturing environment where your comfort and health is of primary importance.
Call today to schedule!
Evaluation
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.
We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.
Dental Implants Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
Procedures
Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are attached to the implant to provide stable anchors in the gums for replacement teeth.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors that include hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.
For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture that will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Drs. Kim and Arrington will uncover the implant and attach a small healing collar. After two weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.
What to do if my dental implants have failed?
If you have dental implants from another practice which are failing or have failed we can help! Rocky Mount periodontists Dr. John Kim and Dr. Harriet Arrington are experts in treating implant complications. Call our expert staff to schedule a consultation where our periodontists will examine the implants and discuss with you the options for repair or replacement.
Rocky Mount Periodontics and Implant Center
Patient Review by Sheryl C
Dr Kim and staff provided excellent service.Answered all my questions and gave detailed explanations.
- Sheryl C
Patient Review by Tim D
Carolyn is a great hygienist and so pleasant. Everyone in office is cordial and professional.
- Tim D
Patient Review by William N
friendly very proficient and professional
- William N
Patient Review by Bruce S
I had an implant placed by Dr. Kim and never any discomfort or problems at all. I would recommend the office to anyone needing implants.
- Bruce S
Patient Review by Lynn P
I am very pleased with my two dental implants. The treatment and care I received was professional, but felt very friendly, caring, and personal. I highly recommend Dr. Kim and his associates to anyone needing the services they offer.
- Lynn P
Patient Review by Lynn P
I had a lot of confidence with Dr. Kim from the beginning, he was very through and he shows a lot of sensitivity during procedure, following and continues to want to make sure the implants are healthy and functioning properly.
- Lynn P
Patient Review by Gloria A
I highly recommend Dr. Kim for implant therapy. He has done two extractions and implants for me, one in 2010 and most recently in 2017. My experience was extremely positive. Dr. Kim put me at ease with his pleasant and friendly demeanor and his professionalism and skills are excellent.
- Gloria A
Patient Review by Terry L
not as bad as you would think
- Terry L
Patient Review by joy B
Great dental care by Debbie and Dr. Kim.
- joy B
Patient Review by Dorothy N
I enjoy having Dr. Kim and his staff taking care of my mouth. I love my implants so much and would recommend anyone interested in implants to see him
- Dorothy N
Patient Review by Jean B
I've always had excellent service! There is always patience, understanding and willingness to explain and go over options of what is needed.
- Jean B
Patient Review by Terri G
Overall experience was great considering all we had to do. Before implant was done we had to do a bone graft & wait for it to set before the implant was done. Was told why this was the best option & what may happen without it. Staff is always pleasant & courteous. They always helpful & will answer questions as needed
- Terri G
Patient Review by William A
I was very satisfied with all aspects of my experience. The staff and doctors were highly professional and answered all of my questions and concerns.
- William A
Patient Review by Woody C
This experience has been 100% good!! I have been so pleased with my upper implants and I have so much stability when eating and my teeth look awesome. I would highly recommend this practice for your Periodontal and Implant needs.
- Woody C
Patient Review by Leverne E
Visiting the dentist has never been a good experience for me, until.....I met Dr. Kim and his staff. They are GREAT. In addition to efficiency, they are punctual, polite, and fun to be with. I highly recommend them to everyone with dentistry needs.
- Leverne E
Patient Review by Joan l
Dr. Arrington was wonderful she did my extraction and not problems at all. Dr. Kim did my implant and he was wonderful as well. The office staff were very professional and polite. I would recommend this practice to anyone needing implants or periodontal treatment.
- Joan l
Patient Review by Rebecca S/ O
I've been a patient at this office for about 40 years. I like all the specialists in one office building and over the years have seen all of them. I had seen specialists in Charlotte, NC before coming here as well as one in Greenville---All of the staff and the doctors here are superior to those previously....and I have come to know some of of the individuals in this office personally. GREAT TEAM. Can't say enough about them.
- Rebecca S/ O
Patient Review by Tanner B
I had a very good experience with my implant procedure. The staff was very nice and I am recovering very quickly. I can tell they are very dedicated to the well being of their patients.
- Tanner B
Patient Review by Vaughan W
Dr Kim has always may me feel so secure in his ability to do his work. His wall has degrees from UVA, Harvard and UNC, so you know he was well trained. The staff is always pleasant and competent. I would always recommend Dr Kim!
- Vaughan W
Patient Review by Marilyn W
OUTSTANDING CARE FROM THE ENTIRE STAFF. I AM VERY GRATEFUL FOR THE CARE THEY HAVE GIVEN TO ME OVER THE YEARS I HAVE BEEN COMING HERE, AND LOOK FORWARD TO THE CONTINUED GREAT CARE FROM THE ENTIRE STAFF.
- Marilyn W