“The idea of surgery made me nervous… but now I have a smile I’m proud of.”
If you’ve been considering dental implants, but that word—surgery—has been holding you back, you’re not alone. We hear it all the time from patients across Tewksbury, MA.
And here’s the good news: dental implant surgery is not as intense as it sounds. In fact, it’s one of the most predictable, successful procedures in all of modern dentistry. The discomfort is usually mild. The recovery is manageable. And the results? Life-changing.
So take a breath. Let’s walk through the entire process, one step at a time.
What Is Dental Implant Surgery?
Let’s keep it simple.
Dental implant surgery involves placing a small titanium post into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Over time, your bone fuses to that implant (in a process called osseointegration), creating a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
You walk in with a gap. You walk out with a plan to bring your smile back—for good.
When Is Dental Implant Surgery Needed?
Dental implant surgery is recommended when:
- You’ve lost a tooth or had an extraction
- You’re missing multiple teeth and want a more stable option than a denture
- You want a permanent solution—not a temporary fix
- You’re tired of bridges or partials that shift and fail
We treat patients in Tewksbury, Billerica, Lowell, Wilmington, and beyond who are ready to eat, speak, and smile without worry. If you’re in that spot—you’re ready too.
The Dental Implant Surgery Process
Here’s how it works step-by-step at My Brand New Smile in Tewksbury:
1. Free Consultation & 3D Imaging
We use digital X-rays and 3D scans to plan your procedure with precision. Dr. Wu reviews your medical history and bone density to make sure you’re a great candidate.
2. Surgical Placement
On the day of surgery, the area is numbed (and sedation is available if you prefer). A small incision is made in the gum, and the implant is placed into the jawbone.
Most patients say it’s easier than a tooth extraction—and over before they know it.
3. Healing Time
The implant needs time to fuse with the bone. This usually takes 3–6 months. During this time, we may give you a temporary tooth or appliance so you’re never without a smile.
4. Abutment & Crown Placement
Once healing is complete, we place an abutment (a tiny connector) and your new crown, matched to your other teeth. You’re done—and smiling!
Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?
Not really. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the process is.
You’ll be completely numb during the procedure. Afterward, you might feel:
- Minor swelling
- Tenderness around the implant site
- Mild bruising
Most patients manage this with ibuprofen or Tylenol. You’ll leave with full instructions, a soft-food guide, and Dr. Wu’s contact info in case you need anything.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The actual implant placement usually takes about 30–60 minutes per implant. If we’re placing multiple implants, it might take a little longer. But you’ll be in and out the same day—no hospital visit, no overnight stay.
What Are the Risks?
While implant surgery is extremely safe, it does carry a few small risks, including:
- Infection at the implant site
- Sinus issues (only if implants are placed in the upper back jaw)
- Nerve irritation (rare—avoided with precise imaging)
- Implant failure (most common in smokers or those with poor healing)
That’s why we evaluate everything before recommending surgery. We never cut corners when it comes to your health.
How Much Does Dental Implant Surgery Cost in Tewksbury?
At My Brand New Smile, we’re upfront about everything.
Typical implant surgery costs:
- Single tooth: $3,500–$6,000 (includes implant, surgery, and crown)
- Multiple implants: Varies based on the number of teeth
- Full arch (All-on-4 or implant dentures): $15,000–$30,000+
We also offer:
- Free consultations
- Monthly payment plans with low or no interest
- Insurance coordination (we’ll check benefits for crowns, extractions, or grafts)
Let’s find a plan that works for you.
Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts: Do I Need One?
Maybe. If you’ve been missing teeth for a while, your jawbone may have shrunk. In that case, we may recommend:
- Bone grafting to rebuild strength in the jaw
- Sinus lift to add height to the upper jaw near the sinuses
These are straightforward procedures and are often done during or just before implant placement. They make sure your implant has a solid foundation to last a lifetime.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Great question. The implant itself (the titanium post) can last 20+ years or more, often for life. The crown on top may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.
With regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, your new tooth can last decades.
What Happens If I Wait Too Long?
Here’s the thing: the longer you wait after losing a tooth, the more bone loss you may experience. That makes implant surgery trickier (and sometimes more expensive). It can also lead to:
- Shifting teeth
- Facial sagging
- Bite changes
- Jawbone shrinkage
If you’re on the fence, schedule a free consult. Let’s get a look and see where you stand. No pressure. Just answers.
Why Patients Across Tewksbury Trust Us with Their Surgery
We’ve helped hundreds of people replace missing teeth with implants, from one tooth to full-mouth transformations. What they all have in common?
They wanted honest care from a dentist they could trust.
Meet Dr. Elaine Wu – Compassionate Implant Surgeon in Tewksbury
Dr. Elaine Wu is one of the most trusted names in dental implant surgery in Tewksbury—and for good reason.
She combines years of clinical experience with a calm, reassuring chairside manner. Her patients say they feel relaxed, confident, and cared for throughout the process.
Dr. Wu uses 3D imaging and guided surgery techniques to ensure each implant is placed with precision. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or several, she’ll make sure the entire experience is smooth, clear, and comfortable from start to finish.
You’re not just another chart to her. You’re a person—and your smile matters.