Dental Implants in Charleston, SC

Advanced Tooth Replacement That Feels Natural and Lasts for Years

Missing teeth impact not only your appearance and confidence but also essential functions like chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral health. At Hehr Oral Surgery in Charleston and St. George, we offer full-scope dental implant solutions backed by surgical expertise and advanced technology to deliver long-lasting, predictable results—no referral needed. Whether you're missing one tooth or require full arch restoration, Dr. R. Jason J. Hehr, DMD provides comprehensive, compassionate care through every phase of treatment. We proudly serve patients from Charleston, MacLaura Hall, Ladson, Hanahan, Summerville, Walterboro, Orangeburg, Santee, and Holly Hill.

Replacing Missing Teeth with Dental Implants

Dental implants are widely regarded as the most effective long-term solution for tooth loss. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants replace the tooth root, offering stability and function that closely resembles natural teeth. They also help preserve the jawbone and prevent the sunken facial appearance that often follows tooth loss.

Overview of the Dental Implant Process

Treatment typically involves multiple phases:

1. Initial Consultation – Dr. Hehr performs a full exam, reviews imaging, and discusses your goals.
2. Surgical Placement – A titanium post is placed into the jawbone during a minimally invasive procedure.
3. Healing & Osseointegration – Over the next few months, the implant bonds with the bone to create a stable foundation.
4. Restoration Phase – Once healing is complete, a connector (abutment) and custom crown are placed by your restorative dentist.

This process ensures the implant is fully integrated for long-term support and function.

Solutions for Full Arch Tooth Loss

If you're missing all teeth on your upper or lower jaw, dental implants offer more than one solution:

Missing All Upper or Lower Teeth

For patients who have lost all teeth in one arch, implants can anchor a custom bridge or a removable denture for maximum support and comfort.

Implant-Supported Overdenture

This removable option is secured by implants for better stability than traditional dentures. It improves chewing, prevents slippage, and reduces pressure on the gums—ideal for patients seeking a cost-effective full arch solution.

Bone Grafting for Implants

In cases where the jawbone has thinned due to long-term tooth loss, bone grafting may be required before implant placement. Dr. Hehr specializes in grafting procedures to rebuild lost bone volume, improving your chances for a successful and lasting implant.

Common grafting methods include:

• Socket Preservation (after extraction)
• Sinus Lifts (for upper jaw support)
• Ridge Augmentation (for larger bone defects)

A full evaluation will determine the most appropriate approach for your case.

What Happens After Implant Placement?

After the implant is placed, the healing phase is critical. While many patients resume light activity within a day or two, osseointegration—where the implant fuses to the bone—takes several weeks to a few months. You’ll return for periodic follow-ups, and once integration is complete, your general dentist will attach the final prosthetic restoration.

Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants varies depending on:

• The number of teeth being replaced
• The need for bone grafting
• Sedation preferences
• The type of final restoration used

At your consultation, we’ll provide a full breakdown of treatment costs, review your insurance coverage, and discuss financing options. We’re committed to making high-quality implant care accessible to all qualified patients.