Question 1

What exactly is a dental implant, and how does it actually stay in my mouth?

Accepted Answer

A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in your jawbone that acts like a replacement tooth root. Over a few months your bone grows around it, and we attach a custom crown on top so it looks and works like your natural tooth.

Question 2

Will I have to bounce between different dentists to get this done?

Accepted Answer

For most of your care, no. Dr. Hedges plans your implant and restores your final crown right here at our Herr Lane office. When a surgical step like an extraction or bone graft is best handled by a specialist, he coordinates that referral so you still have one doctor keeping your whole case on track.

Question 3

Is this something people my age do, or am I past that?

Accepted Answer

Implants aren't about age. They're about bone health and overall health. We see patients across a wide range of ages, and your free consultation will tell you honestly whether you're a good candidate.

Question 4

I've been missing a tooth for years. Is it too late to do an implant now?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. When a tooth has been gone a while the bone in that area can shrink, but a graft can often rebuild enough to support an implant. We confirm what you need with 3D imaging before recommending anything.

Question 5

What if I'm nervous about dental work, especially surgery?

Accepted Answer

That's common, and we plan around it. We review the steps with you first, use comfortable local anesthesia, and move at a pace that respects how you're feeling. You're never pushed into anything.

Question 6

Should I just get a bridge instead of bothering with an implant?

Accepted Answer

A bridge can work, but it relies on filing down the teeth on either side of the gap. An implant replaces the root and stands on its own, leaving your healthy teeth untouched. We walk you through which fits your situation.

Question 7

Is now the right time, or should I wait until I can afford it?

Accepted Answer

Waiting is reasonable, but bone tends to shrink the longer a gap stays open, which can make later work more involved. If cost is the concern, we accept Delta Dental and offer CareCredit monthly financing so you can move forward on a plan you're comfortable with.

Question 8

This is going to cost a fortune and I have no idea what I'll actually pay.

Accepted Answer

We won't hand you a surprise bill. Your free consultation includes a clear treatment plan and an honest estimate, and our team helps you understand what your Delta Dental benefits and CareCredit options cover before you commit.

Question 9

What if my body rejects the implant?

Accepted Answer

Implant integration is generally very predictable, but no procedure has a 100% success rate for every person. If we see anything in your health history or imaging that raises your risk, we tell you upfront and talk through alternatives instead of pushing ahead.

Question 10

I hate going to the dentist and I'm worried this is going to be a long, painful ordeal.

Accepted Answer

It's not a single marathon visit. Treatment is broken into comfortable stages with healing in between, and each step is planned to keep you at ease. You know what to expect at every appointment, and you can call us between visits if anything feels off.

Dental Implants in Louisville, KY

Dental Implants at Hedges Dental

What Dental Implants Involves

Consultation & 3D Imaging

Surgical Placement & Coordination

Healing & Integration

Custom Crown Restoration

Common Questions

Ready to Talk About Dental Implants?