Dental Implants

Replace Missing Teeth. For Life.

Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard in tooth replacement — and for good reason. Unlike bridges or removable dentures, implants replace the entire tooth structure: the root and the crown. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime.

Dr. Alex Planes has achieved Mastership status through the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) — one of the highest levels of recognition in the field of implant dentistry. This designation is earned through extensive continuing education, clinical training, and case documentation. When you choose Lifestream for dental implants, you are choosing a doctor whose expertise in this field is among the most advanced available.

Implant Options We Offer

Single Tooth Implant: A single titanium post is placed in the jaw where a tooth is missing, topped with a custom porcelain crown. The most conservative and natural replacement for a single missing tooth — no adjacent teeth are altered.

Multiple Implants: When several teeth are missing, individual implants can replace each one. Alternatively, implant-supported bridges can span a gap using fewer implants while still providing a fixed, non-removable restoration.

All-on-4® Implants: A revolutionary full-arch restoration technique in which an entire arch of teeth (upper or lower) is supported by just four strategically placed implants. All-on-4 provides immediate function and aesthetics, often on the same day as placement — and is far more affordable than replacing every tooth individually. Ideal for patients with extensive tooth loss or those currently wearing dentures.

Implant-Supported Dentures: Traditional dentures snapped onto or attached to implants for dramatically improved stability, chewing force, and bone preservation. No more slipping, no more adhesives.

The Implant Process

Step 1 — Evaluation: A comprehensive examination including 3D cone beam CT imaging allows Dr. Planes to assess bone volume, density, and anatomy to plan implant placement precisely.

Step 2 — Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia (and sedation if desired), the titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone. This outpatient procedure typically takes 1–2 hours per implant and is far more comfortable than most patients expect.

Step 3 — Osseointegration: Over 3–6 months, the titanium post fuses permanently to the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates an anchor as strong as a natural tooth root. A temporary restoration is often worn during this period.

Step 4 — Crown Placement: Once fully integrated, a custom porcelain crown is fabricated and permanently attached to the implant. The result is a tooth that looks, feels, and functions exactly like a natural one.

Why Choose Implants Over Other Options?

• Permanent — with proper care, implants can last a lifetime
• Preserves jawbone — prevents the bone loss that occurs with missing teeth
• No impact on adjacent teeth — unlike bridges, implants stand alone
• Natural look and feel — indistinguishable from real teeth
• Full chewing function restored — eat any food with confidence
• Easy care — brush and floss just like natural teeth
• 95%+ long-term success rate in well-selected cases

Frequently Asked Questions