Whether it's one tooth or a full arch, Dental Implants in Durham starts with a CBCT scan, not a guess. Smile Center Dentistry plans every case with 3D imaging before a single post goes in.
Osseointegration takes months either way — we'd rather spend an extra week planning than redo a placement. A surgical guide built from your own CBCT scan keeps the post exactly where the plan says it should go.
Our implant providers carry current Durham, NC licensure and continuing education specific to oral implantology. Credentials are available on request, before you ever sit in the chair.
Every case starts with a CBCT scan, so we know exactly where the implant post can safely go before we touch a drill. Nerve position is confirmed on imaging first, which is what keeps placement safe near the lower jaw.
Bone grafting, if needed, is quoted separately and explained before it's added to your plan. Financing options are discussed at consultation if the full cost is a concern.
We stand behind the restoration, not just the surgical placement. Guarantee terms are explained in writing at your consultation, not buried in fine print.
Not every patient needs the same implant approach — here's what we actually offer after your scan.
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.
When a CBCT scan shows insufficient bone density, grafting rebuilds the site before an implant can be safely placed. 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.
Healing checkpoints are scheduled in advance so nothing gets missed between placement and final restoration.
"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."
"Surgical guide made from my CBCT scan — they showed me exactly where the post would go before the procedure."
Most single-implant cases run three to six months total, including healing time before the final crown. 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. We'll show you the scan and explain the grafting option honestly, not push you into a case that isn't ready.
We break down post, abutment, and crown costs separately so you know exactly what you're paying for. Financing options are available if the full amount upfront isn't realistic for your budget.
We discuss sedation choices at your consult so you're comfortable with the plan going in. We check in after placement to make sure recovery is going as expected.
Care is similar to natural teeth, with extra attention to gum health around the implant site. We show you specific cleaning techniques for around the implant at your follow-up visit.
Some plans cover a portion of implant costs — our front desk will verify your specific benefits before treatment. We'll tell you plainly what's likely out-of-pocket before you schedule anything.
Our implant team serves Durham and the surrounding zip codes, so nearby residents don't have to travel far for 3D-guided planning. If you're unsure whether your case needs a specialist referral, we'll tell you honestly at your consult rather than taking on a case beyond our scope.
We'll tell you honestly whether you're a good candidate before you spend a dollar.
Call +1-866-227-2801