Woolbert Dental in Shreveport restores dental implants — the crowns, bridges and implant-supported dentures that go on top of the post, and the years of care that follow. We plan the case with CBCT 3D imaging, then refer the surgical placement of the post to an oral surgeon or periodontist we coordinate with; the finished tooth, the bite and the maintenance are ours. Patients across Shreveport, Bossier and Haughton choose implants because they stop bone loss, restore chewing strength, and look and feel like natural teeth. Schedule your implant consultation or call 318-868-8276.
Dental Implants Are The Best Way To Replace A Missing Tooth Or Multiple Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can cause a range of dental issues, from difficulty chewing and speaking to bone loss in the jaw and shifting of surrounding teeth. While there are several options available for replacing missing teeth, dental implants are widely considered to be the most effective solution.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed directly into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for a replacement tooth or teeth. This procedure involves minor surgery, during which a small titanium post is placed into the jawbone to replace the natural tooth root. Once the post is in place, a natural-looking dental crown is attached to the top, completing the restoration of the missing tooth.
One of the main benefits of dental implants is their durability and longevity. Unlike other tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They also offer superior comfort and stability, as they are anchored directly into the jawbone, allowing for a more natural look and feel. Additionally, dental implants can help to preserve the jawbone by stimulating bone growth, which can prevent further bone loss and maintain the structure of the face.
Dental implants offer a permanent solution to missing teeth that can improve both the function and appearance of your smile.
Dental Implant Options
Single Dental Implants
Single dental implants are an effective solution for replacing a single missing tooth. After the implant has integrated with the jawbone, a custom-made crown is attached to the post, creating a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth. Single dental implants not only restore the aesthetics of a missing tooth, but also improve the functionality of the mouth and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.
Implant Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a popular and effective solution for those who have lost most or all of their natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place, implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants, providing a stable and secure fit. This innovative dental treatment offers patients a range of benefits, including improved speech, enhanced comfort, and greater confidence when eating, smiling, and speaking.
Implant Supported Bridge
Fixed dental bridges with dental implants offer an effective solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. This type of restoration uses dental implants as the foundation for a bridge of two or more artificial teeth, creating a stable and long-lasting solution for tooth loss.
Full Mouth Dental Implants
Also known as full arch dental implants offer a comprehensive solution for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. The procedure involves the placement of multiple dental implants throughout the entire upper or lower jaw, providing a sturdy foundation for a customized set of replacement teeth. Full mouth dental implants can dramatically improve oral function, enhance your appearance, and restore your self-confidence.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
Improve Oral Health
- Preservation of natural teeth
- Reduced risk of gum disease
Enhanced Appearance
- Natural-looking and permanent solution
- Improved speech and comfort
Improved Bone Health
- Stimulation of natural bone growth
- Prevention of bone loss and deterioration
Improved Function and Convenience
- Restored ability to eat properly
- Elimination the need for dentures
Improved Overall Health
- Improved nutrition and digestion
- Reduced risk of health issues associated with missing teeth
Improved Speech
- Allows clear and confident speech
- No slipping or moving unlike dentures
Am I a good candidate for Dental Implants?
Good overall health: To ensure the success of dental implant surgery, it’s crucial that you are in good overall health. This means that you should not have any underlying health conditions that could interfere with the healing process, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Healthy gums and jawbone: Dental implants rely on a certain amount of healthy gum tissue and jawbone for success. If you have advanced gum disease or significant bone loss in your jaw, it may not be possible to support an implant properly, making you an unsuitable candidate.
A commitment to oral hygiene: Like your natural teeth, dental implants require regular care and maintenance to ensure longevity. If you are committed to practicing good oral hygiene and taking care of your implants, you may be a suitable candidate for the procedure.
The most reliable way to find out whether implants are right for you is a consultation and a CBCT scan at our Shreveport office. We assess the bone, the gum tissue, the bite and your general health, tell you honestly what an implant restoration can and cannot do in your case, and set out the alternatives — a bridge or a partial denture — alongside it. If the plan involves an implant, we coordinate the surgical stage with the surgeon and take care of everything before and after it.
If you have lost all or most of your teeth, you may be a candidate for All-on-4 dental implants.
The Advantages of Implants Over Traditional Dentures
Dental implants have several advantages over traditional dentures. First and foremost, dental implants provide a permanent solution for tooth loss. Unlike dentures that may slip or cause discomfort, implants are anchored into the jawbone, providing stability and a natural feel. This means that patients can speak, eat, and smile with confidence, without worrying about their dentures shifting or falling out.
Another advantage of dental implants is that they help to preserve the jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the bone in the jaw can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants mimic the natural tooth root and stimulate the bone, promoting growth and preventing further deterioration. This can help to maintain the shape and structure of the face, ensuring that patients look and feel their best.
Lastly, dental implants are more durable than traditional dentures. With proper care and maintenance, implants can last a lifetime, while dentures may need to be replaced every few years. This means that dental implants are a long-term investment in a patient’s oral health and overall wellbeing. Overall, dental implants offer a permanent, stable, and durable solution for tooth loss, with numerous advantages over traditional dentures.
Is Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental Implants is a good fit if you are:
- Adults with one or more missing teeth
- Patients with healthy gums and adequate bone (or willing to graft)
- Non-smokers or patients willing to quit during healing
- Patients who want a permanent, non-removable solution
This may not be the right option if:
- Patients with severe uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions impairing healing
- Heavy smokers (significantly higher failure rates)
- Patients with severe bone loss unwilling to undergo grafting
- Children whose jaws are still growing
What to Expect During Your Dental Implants Visit
Here is exactly what happens at your appointment at Woolbert Dental. Knowing each step makes the experience far less intimidating — and lets you relax knowing what comes next.
- 1. Consultation and CBCT planning — with us. A 3D scan maps bone volume, nerve position and sinus floor. Dr. Michael Woolbert plans where the finished tooth has to sit, and therefore where the implant has to go — the restoration drives the plan, not the other way round.
- 2. Placement of the post — with the surgeon. The implant itself is placed by the oral surgeon or periodontist we refer you to, working to the plan we agreed. It is done under local anesthetic and usually takes 30–60 minutes per implant; most patients describe pressure rather than pain. Their office goes through the anesthetic and after-care with you directly.
- 3. Healing phase. Over three to four months the bone grows around the implant and locks it in place — osseointegration. A protective healing cap sits above the gum line during this period, and we see you to check the tissue is settling as it should.
- 4. Abutment and crown — back with us. Once the implant has fully integrated we take an implant-level impression, fit the connecting abutment and seat the final shade-matched zirconia or porcelain crown, then balance the bite. This is the part Woolbert Dental does, and it is the part you see and feel every day.
Single Implant vs Bridge vs Partial Denture
Here is how Dental Implants compares to the main alternatives. Dr. Michael Woolbert reviews all options with every patient at Woolbert Dental so you make the best-informed decision for your situation.
| Feature | Single Implant | Dental Bridge | Partial Denture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prevents bone loss | Yes | No | No |
| Affects neighbor teeth | No | Requires grinding | Hooks attach |
| Longevity (crown) | 10–15+ years | 7–12 years | 5–10 years |
| Implant itself | 20+ years / lifetime | — | — |
| Feels like a natural tooth | Yes | Close | No — removable |
| Cleaning | Normal floss | Special flossers | Remove and brush |
Common Concerns About Dental Implants
These are the questions patients at Woolbert Dental ask most often before committing to treatment. Dr. Michael Woolbert addresses each one honestly at your consultation.
"Dental implants are too expensive"
Upfront cost is higher than a bridge or partial denture, but implants last decades and prevent bone loss — often costing less per year over a lifetime. Financing options make treatment accessible.
"I'm scared of the surgery"
Say so — it changes how the whole thing is arranged. The post is placed under local anesthetic by the surgeon we refer you to, and most patients report less discomfort afterwards than from having a tooth taken out. Planning the position on the CBCT scan beforehand is what keeps that appointment short. At our own visits we offer nitrous oxide and a calm atmosphere for patients who need help relaxing.
"Will the implant really last a lifetime?"
With proper care (daily brushing, flossing, regular cleanings, no smoking), the titanium implant itself typically lasts decades. The crown may need replacement after 10–15 years, but the implant stays in place.
Risks and Considerations of Dental Implants
Every procedure has tradeoffs, and transparent conversation about them is part of informed consent. Dr. Michael Woolbert reviews these at your consultation and answers every question before treatment begins.
- Post-surgical infection at the implant site
- Failure of osseointegration (implant does not fuse with bone)
- Nerve irritation or injury (minimized by CBCT planning)
- Sinus involvement for upper-jaw implants
- Peri-implantitis (bone loss around the implant) if hygiene is neglected
- Crown or abutment may need replacement over time
How We Approach Dental Implants at Woolbert Dental
Dental implants are the closest replacement to a natural tooth available in modern dentistry. They fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, and unlike a bridge, they do not rely on neighboring teeth for support — which preserves more of the natural structure intact.
The single biggest factor in long-term implant success is planning. CBCT 3D imaging is used for every implant case at Woolbert Dental to map bone volume, nerve position and sinus proximity before the surgical stage is scheduled. Guessing is not an option when you are planning a restoration meant to last twenty years.
Woolbert Dental is a restorative practice. We plan the case, we make and fit the crown, bridge or implant-supported denture that goes on the post, and we look after it afterwards. The surgical placement is carried out by an oral surgeon or periodontist we coordinate with. Both halves are planned together — the surgeon knows where the finished tooth has to sit before the implant goes in, which is exactly why the result fits your bite instead of fighting it.
Reviewed by Dr. Michael Woolbert · Woolbert Dental, Shreveport, LA
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants Shreveport
Are dental implants painful? Most patients report experiencing little to no pain during the dental implant procedure.
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. Patients need to have healthy gums and adequate bone density to support the implant.
Dental implants can be removed, but it is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. This process can be complicated and may require additional surgery.
Most dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of dental implants. However, some plans may cover a portion of the cost, depending on the plan and the individual’s circumstances.
Smoking can have a negative impact on dental implants’ success rate. Smoking can increase the risk of infection and hinder the healing process.
In some cases, dental implants can be completed in a single day. However, this is not always possible, and it depends on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
There are several alternatives to dental implants, including dentures and dental bridges. However, these options may not be as long-lasting or effective as dental implants.
The success rate of dental implants is very high, with a success rate of over 95%. Factors that can affect the success rate include a patient’s overall health, the location of the implant, and the skill of the dental professional.
There is no age limit for dental implants. As long as a patient has healthy gums and sufficient bone density, they may be a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Yes. At our Shreveport dental office we offer dental implants to patients living in Shreveport and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
With proper care, dental implants are designed to last 20+ years and often a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant may need replacement after 10–15 years, but the titanium implant itself typically remains stable for decades.
Coverage varies widely. Some insurance plans cover a portion of the crown or abutment but not the implant post itself. We verify benefits and provide a personalized estimate at your consultation, and we offer financing options to make treatment manageable.
Implant placement carries risks including infection, implant failure (failure of osseointegration), nerve irritation, sinus involvement, and peri-implantitis (bone loss around the implant) if daily cleaning slips. Dr. Michael Woolbert reviews your CBCT imaging and full medical history with the surgeon before the placement is scheduled, and monitors the tissue around every implant he restores at your regular visits.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Woolbert Dental restores dental implants and does not place them — the surgical placement of the implant post is carried out by a referring oral surgeon or periodontist. Implant placement is a surgical procedure with risks including infection, nerve injury, implant failure, sinus complications, and bone loss. Candidacy depends on bone volume and overall health. Consult Dr. Michael Woolbert or a qualified dental professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual results may vary.
Before, during and after your implant dentistry appointment
The practice states its own role plainly on this page: at Dr. Michael Woolbert in Shreveport we restore dental implants. Surgical placement is referred, and coordinated.
How to prepare
- A full evaluation of your general health, dental health and bone structure — all three have to be right for an implant to succeed.
- CBCT 3D imaging to measure bone height and width and locate the nerve and the sinus.
- Any active gum disease is treated first. An implant placed into inflamed tissue is an implant at risk.
- The complete exam is followed by findings, treatment options and the cost of the implants, explained before you commit.
How it is carried out
- The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone by the specialist we coordinate with — Woolbert Dental restores implants rather than placing them.
- The implant fuses with living bone in a process known as osseointegration.
- After your mouth heals, usually in three to six months, a permanent crown is placed over the post to complete the restoration.
- Where several teeth are missing, the implants can support a permanently cemented bridge; where a whole arch is missing, they can carry a fixed bridge or a snap-on denture.
Afterwards, and long term
- Treat your implants like you would your natural teeth: brush at least twice a day and floss regularly.
- Schedule routine check-ups. We inspect the gum around each implant, check the fittings and take images to monitor the bone level.
- Report any looseness, clicking, bleeding or tenderness at the gum line promptly — early peri-implant problems are treatable, late ones often are not.
- If you grind, we will make you a night guard. Grinding forces are one of the main causes of implant restoration failure.
What we use, and why it matters to the result
The post itself is titanium; everything else on this list is what plans it, what goes on top of it, and what keeps it there.
Titanium implant posts
An artificial tooth root, shaped like a screw. Implants can be made from several different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue.
CBCT 3D imaging
Three-dimensional scanning of the jaw to measure available bone and locate the nerve and sinus before anything is planned.
Implant crowns
Placed over the post after the mouth heals, usually in three to six months, to complete the smile restoration.
Implant-retained overdentures
Several titanium posts in the jawbone that a denture snaps onto, reducing slippage and improving comfort.
Digital imaging
Immediate, lower-radiation images used to monitor bone levels around each implant at review appointments.
Night guard
A custom guard that takes grinding forces off implant restorations — see <a href='/dental-services/advanced-dental-care/mouth-guard/'>teeth grinding mouth guard</a>.