Dental Implants Overview
Missing or failing teeth affect more than your smile — they impact how you eat, speak, and feel day to day. Dental implants are the most durable, natural-feeling solution available, and Dr. LaTocha and Dr. Gasper have the surgical expertise to place them with precision.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed directly into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time and acts as an artificial tooth root. It’s made up of three parts: the implant itself, a healing abutment, and a crown — the visible replacement tooth crafted by your dentist. Together, they create a result that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement because they’re the only solution that also preserves jawbone and prevents the bone loss that naturally follows tooth loss.
Our surgeons work closely with your referring dentist throughout the process. We handle the surgical placement of the implant; your dentist completes the final restoration. It’s a true team approach — and one we’ve refined over 30 years of working with dentists across Lake County.
Why patients choose implants
Built to last a lifetime
Unlike bridges, which typically need replacing after a decade, implants integrate with the bone and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Eat and speak naturally
Implants restore full chewing power and eliminate the speech issues — like lisping — that tooth gaps can cause.
Preserves bone and facial structure
Bone loss begins quickly after tooth loss. Implants are the only replacement option that stimulates the jawbone and maintains your facial structure.
Protects surrounding teeth
When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth begin to shift. An implant fills the gap and keeps everything in place.
Looks and feels natural
The crown is matched to your surrounding teeth, and because the implant is anchored in bone, there’s no slipping or discomfort.
Easy to maintain
No special tools or routines — just brush, floss, and keep your regular dental appointments like you would with natural teeth.
What to expect: your treatment timeline
The implant process typically takes several months to a year from start to finish. That timeline exists for good reason — it allows for proper healing and ensures the implant is fully stable before your final restoration is placed.
1. Consultation
Dr. LaTocha or Dr. Gasper will review your medical history, examine your mouth, and go over your imaging to determine if implants are right for you. You’ll also discuss sedation options — local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia — and leave with clear pre- and post-operative instructions.
2. Preparation (if needed)
Some patients require a tooth extraction or bone graft before implant placement. If that applies to you, your surgeon will walk you through what’s involved and how it fits into your overall plan.
3. Implant placement
Your surgeon makes a small incision in the gum, places the implant into the jawbone, and closes the site. The implant is then left undisturbed for several months while healing takes place.
4. Osseointegration
Over the next 2–6 months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. This is what gives the implant its strength and stability.
5. Final check and handoff
A follow-up x-ray confirms the implant has fully integrated. Once it has, we’ll send you back to your dentist for the final crown placement — and your new smile is complete.