“The Teeth are a Gateway to your Well-Being.”
Key Takeaways
- Dental implants rebuild function, confidence, and long-term oral health.
- Airway-focused care supports better breathing, posture, and sleep.
- 3D imaging and laser tech ensure comfort, precision, and fast healing.
- Personalized implant plans deliver durable, natural-looking results.
- Award-winning care in Mansfield—everything done under one roof.
When you lose a tooth—whether from decay, injury, or gum disease—it’s not just your smile that changes. Your confidence shifts. The way you eat changes. You might even notice differences in how you speak. And here’s what most people don’t realize: what’s happening beneath the surface is just as concerning as what you can see in the mirror.
At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics in Mansfield, TX, we approach dental implants differently than most practices. While other dentists might focus solely on replacing what’s missing, Dr. Jiyoung Jung looks at the bigger picture—how your oral health connects to your overall wellness, your sleep quality, your facial structure, and even your posture.
That’s because dental implants aren’t just about filling a gap. They’re about restoring function, preserving bone, and maintaining the delicate balance that keeps your entire body healthy.
What Are Dental Implants, Really?
Let’s talk about what dental implants actually are, beyond the clinical definition you’d find in a textbook.
Think of a dental implant as a titanium post—essentially an artificial tooth root—that’s surgically placed into your jawbone. But here’s what makes them remarkable: through a natural process called osseointegration, that titanium post actually fuses with your bone over several months. It becomes part of you. Then, once it’s fully integrated, we attach an abutment (a small connector piece) and finally, a custom-crafted crown that looks and functions exactly like your natural teeth.
The result? A permanent, stable tooth replacement that you can’t even tell apart from your original teeth.
Unlike dentures that sit on your gums or bridges that rely on neighboring teeth for support, dental implants stand independently. They don’t slip when you talk. They don’t limit what you can eat. And most importantly, they actively prevent the bone loss that happens when tooth roots disappear.
Why Dental Implants Stand Above Other Tooth Replacement Options
Here in Mansfield, Arlington, Burleson, and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, patients often ask me: “Dr. Jung, why should I choose implants over dentures or bridges?”
It’s a fair question, and the answer comes down to understanding how your mouth really works.
The Bone Loss Problem Nobody Talks About
When you lose a tooth, you don’t just lose what’s visible above the gumline. The root that once stimulated your jawbone disappears too. Without that stimulation, your body assumes the bone isn’t needed anymore and begins resorbing it—essentially dissolving it away.
This isn’t just a cosmetic issue. As your jawbone shrinks, it changes the entire structure of your face. Your cheeks can appear sunken. Your chin moves closer to your nose. You might develop that “aged” appearance, even if you’re relatively young. Traditional dentures actually accelerate this process because they rest on the bone without stimulating it.
Dental implants solve this problem completely. Because they function like natural tooth roots, they signal to your body that the bone is still needed. They preserve your facial structure, maintain your bone density, and keep you looking like yourself.
What You Gain With Dental Implants
Natural Function and Feel: When patients return for their follow-up appointments after getting dental implants, they often say the same thing: “I forgot it wasn’t my real tooth.” That’s the goal. Implants restore your natural bite force, allowing you to eat whatever you want—crisp apples, chewy steaks, crunchy vegetables—without a second thought.
Confidence in Every Interaction: No more worrying about dentures slipping when you laugh at a family gathering. No more avoiding certain foods at restaurants. No more being self-conscious about gaps in your smile during important meetings or social events. Dental implants give you back the confidence to live fully.
Protection for Your Other Teeth: Traditional bridges require grinding down the healthy teeth on either side of the gap to serve as anchors. We’re essentially damaging good teeth to replace the missing one. Dental implants don’t require any alteration to your neighboring teeth. Each implant stands alone, preserving the integrity of your entire smile.
Long-Term Value: Yes, dental implants require a higher upfront investment than other options. But here’s what the numbers don’t immediately show: with proper care, implants can last decades or even a lifetime. Compare that to traditional dentures, which need replacement every five to seven years, or bridges, which typically last ten to fifteen years before requiring replacement. When you factor in the long-term costs and the quality of life improvements, implants often provide superior value.
Speech Clarity: Missing front teeth or ill-fitting dentures can affect how you pronounce certain sounds. Implants restore proper tongue positioning and airflow, helping you speak clearly and naturally.
Dr. Jung’s Whole-Body Approach to Dental Implants
This is where our practice differs from what you might experience elsewhere in Mansfield, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, Midlothian, Alvarado, or Dallas.
Most dental offices treat dental implants as a standalone procedure—replace the tooth, send the patient home. But at Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, we’ve been featured on NBC, ABC, FOX, CW, and CBS for a reason: we understand that your teeth are connected to everything else in your body.
Dr. Jung, recognized as one of D Magazine’s Best Dentists from 2021 through 2025, brings a philosophy to implant dentistry that considers not just your teeth, but your airways, your sleep quality, your jaw alignment, your facial symmetry, and your overall wellness. Her TEDx talk on how teeth serve as a gateway to well-being isn’t just theory—it’s how she practices every single day.
The Three Legs of the Healing Stool
Here’s a framework that guides every treatment decision at our practice: imagine your health as a three-legged stool. Each leg represents a critical component of healing and wellness. Remove one leg, and the stool becomes unstable. Remove two, and everything collapses.
Dr. Jung’s revolutionary “Three Legs of the Healing Stool” philosophy recognizes that true healing requires addressing three interconnected pillars:
First Leg – Structural Balance (Alignment): This encompasses both body alignment and oral structural alignment. When we place dental implants, we’re not just thinking about the immediate tooth replacement. We’re considering precise tooth positioning for optimal function, how it affects your jaw position, whether it supports proper body posture, and how airway function might be impacted. Missing teeth can alter your bite, which in turn affects how you hold your head, your neck position, and even your spinal alignment. By restoring structural balance with properly placed dental implants, we’re supporting your entire musculoskeletal system.
Second Leg – Chemical Balance in the Body: This addresses toxicity and optimizes your body’s internal chemical environment for healing. Many patients don’t realize that chronic inflammation from missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures doesn’t stay localized in the mouth—it affects your entire body’s chemical balance. The bacterial imbalance, oral pH changes, and systemic inflammatory factors that result from tooth loss can impact your immune function, cardiovascular health, and metabolic processes. When we restore function with dental implants and eliminate sources of chronic inflammation, we’re supporting your body’s natural chemical balance and healing capacity.
Third Leg – Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual Balance: This recognizes the profound connection between your mental state and physical health. The psychological impact of missing teeth—decreased confidence, social withdrawal, anxiety about eating in public—creates stress that affects your entire well-being. Stress impacts healing, immune function, and even how you clench or grind your teeth. By restoring your smile with dental implants, we’re not just addressing the physical structure; we’re supporting your emotional wellness and giving you back the confidence to engage fully with life.
Just as a three-legged stool requires all legs to remain stable, optimal healing depends on balancing these three essential pillars. This approach goes beyond traditional dentistry to address root causes, not just symptoms. When you come to Central Park Dental & Orthodontics for dental implants, you’re not just getting a tooth replaced—you’re getting a comprehensive evaluation that considers how this restoration supports all three legs of your healing stool.
The Advanced Technology Behind Our Dental Implant Success
Walk into our Mansfield office at 1101 Alexis Ct #101, and you’ll immediately notice something different: we’ve invested in technology that most dental practices don’t have.
3D Cone Beam CT Imaging
Before we place a single implant, we need to see everything—and I mean everything. Our 3D cone beam CT scanner provides incredibly detailed images of your jawbone structure, nerve pathways, sinus cavities, and available bone density. This isn’t like the flat X-rays you might be used to. This is a complete three-dimensional view that allows Dr. Jung to plan your implant placement with precision down to the millimeter.
This technology means we can:
- Identify the optimal angle and depth for implant placement
- Avoid critical anatomical structures like nerves and sinuses
- Determine if you need bone grafting before implant surgery
- Predict long-term success with remarkable accuracy
- Minimize surgical time and recovery discomfort
Digital Scanning Technology
Gone are the days of goopy impression materials that made patients gag. Our digital scanners create precise 3D models of your mouth in minutes, ensuring that your final crown fits perfectly and feels completely natural. The accuracy of digital impressions means better outcomes and fewer adjustments.
Advanced Laser Treatment
Our grade-4 dental laser technology allows Dr. Jung to perform many procedures with far less discomfort and faster healing times than traditional methods. Whether we’re contouring gum tissue for implant placement or treating any inflammation, laser technology provides precision that scalpels simply can’t match.
These aren’t just fancy tools—they’re game-changers that directly improve your treatment outcomes, reduce your recovery time, and increase the long-term success rate of your dental implants.
Who Makes an Ideal Candidate for Dental Implants?
The honest answer is: more people than you might think.
Years ago, if you had diabetes, osteoporosis, or had experienced significant bone loss, you might have been told that dental implants weren’t an option for you. That’s no longer true. With advanced techniques and comprehensive care, we can help most patients achieve successful implant outcomes.
The Basic Requirements
Adequate Bone Density: You need enough healthy jawbone to support the implant. But here’s the important part—if you don’t have enough bone, we can often build it up through bone grafting procedures. This is especially common in the upper jaw and in cases where teeth have been missing for a long time.
Healthy Gums: Active periodontal disease needs to be treated before implant placement. That said, many of our implant patients initially come to us because of gum disease that led to tooth loss. Dr. Jung’s comprehensive approach means we address the underlying gum health issues as part of your implant treatment plan.
Good Overall Health: While certain conditions require extra consideration, most health issues don’t disqualify you from implants. We work closely with your medical team to ensure safe treatment. Controlled diabetes, heart disease, and many other conditions can be successfully managed during implant therapy.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. If you’re committed to maintaining good oral hygiene, you’re likely a good candidate.
Non-Smokers or Willing to Quit: Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure because it impairs healing and bone integration. If you smoke, we’ll have an honest conversation about your options, which may include temporarily quitting during the healing phase.
Special Considerations for Patients in Mansfield and Surrounding Areas
Many of our patients from Fort Worth, Arlington, and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex lead busy lives. They want to know: “How much time will this take? When can I get back to work?”
The timeline varies by individual, but most patients find that the actual implant placement procedure is far easier than they expected. Many return to work the next day. The waiting period—while the implant integrates with your bone—happens in the background of your normal life.
Your Journey to Dental Implants: What to Actually Expect
Let me walk you through what the process really looks like at Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, because understanding each step removes a lot of the anxiety patients naturally feel.
Step One: Your Comprehensive Consultation
This isn’t a five-minute evaluation. When you schedule a consultation for dental implants, plan on spending meaningful time with Dr. Jung. We’ll discuss:
- Your dental history and what led to tooth loss
- Your overall health, medications, and any medical conditions
- Your goals for treatment—both functional and aesthetic
- How the missing tooth affects your daily life
- Your concerns about the procedure
Then comes the thorough examination. Dr. Jung will evaluate your remaining teeth, your gum health, your jaw alignment, and your facial structure. We’ll take digital X-rays and 3D cone beam CT scans to assess bone quality and quantity. We’ll also look at factors that other practices might miss—like your airway structure, signs of teeth grinding, and jaw joint health.
Based on this comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Jung creates a personalized treatment plan. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Your plan considers your unique anatomy, your health status, your lifestyle, and your goals.
Step Two: Preparation (If Needed)
Some patients can proceed directly to implant placement. Others need preparatory procedures first.
Bone Grafting: If you don’t have adequate bone density, we may recommend bone grafting to build up the area. This sounds more intense than it is. We place bone graft material in the deficient area, and over several months, your body incorporates it into your natural bone structure. Once the graft has fully integrated, we can proceed with implant placement.
Sinus Lift: For upper back teeth, sometimes the sinus cavity is too close to the jawbone to safely place an implant. A sinus lift gently elevates the sinus membrane and adds bone material to create adequate space for implant placement.
Extraction: If a damaged tooth is still present, we’ll remove it before placing the implant. In some cases, we can actually place the implant during the same appointment as the extraction, significantly reducing your overall treatment time.
Step Three: Implant Placement
Here’s where many patients are pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the procedure is.
We use local anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure. For patients who experience dental anxiety, we can discuss sedation options to help you feel relaxed.
Using the precise planning from your 3D imaging, Dr. Jung places the titanium implant post into your jawbone at the exact angle, depth, and position for optimal long-term success. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on how many implants you’re receiving.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure itself. Afterward, some soreness is normal—similar to what you might experience after any minor oral surgery. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient, and most patients are back to their normal routines within a day or two.
Step Four: The Healing Phase
This is the waiting period, but it’s also when the magic happens. Over the next three to six months, osseointegration occurs—your bone cells actually grow into the microscopic pores of the titanium implant, creating an incredibly strong bond.
During this time, you’ll continue your regular life. If the implant is in a visible location, we’ll provide a temporary restoration so you’re never without a tooth. You’ll come in for periodic check-ups so we can monitor the integration process.
Step Five: Abutment Placement
Once the implant has fully integrated with your bone, you’ll return for a brief appointment where we attach the abutment—the connector piece between the implant and the final crown. This is a minor procedure that takes just a few minutes.
We’ll take impressions or digital scans of your abutment to ensure your final crown fits precisely.
Step Six: Your Final Restoration
Within a few weeks, your custom crown will be ready. Each crown is carefully crafted to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. When Dr. Jung places your final crown, you’ll be amazed at how natural it looks and feels.
We’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and natural. And just like that, your dental implant journey is complete.
Caring for Your Dental Implants: Simple, But Essential
Here’s the best part about dental implants: caring for them is essentially the same as caring for natural teeth.
Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Pay special attention to the area where the crown meets the gumline, just as you would with a natural tooth.
Floss Daily: Yes, you need to floss around your implants. Food particles and bacteria can accumulate around the implant just like they do around natural teeth. We’ll show you the proper flossing technique to clean effectively without damaging the gum tissue around your implant.
Regular Professional Cleanings: Continue your regular dental hygiene appointments—typically every six months. During these visits, our hygienist will carefully clean around your implants using specialized instruments that won’t scratch the crown or damage the implant surface.
Protect Your Investment: If you grind or clench your teeth—especially at night—we’ll create a custom nightguard for you. The constant pressure from grinding can damage dental implants just as it damages natural teeth.
Maintain Overall Health: Remember that three-legged stool? Your overall health directly impacts your oral health. Managing conditions like diabetes, maintaining good nutrition, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep all support the long-term success of your dental implants.
Watch for Warning Signs: While complications are rare with proper care, contact our office if you notice any persistent pain, swelling, or mobility around your implant. Early intervention can address minor issues before they become major problems.
With this simple care routine, your dental implants can last for decades—often a lifetime.
The Real Investment: Understanding Dental Implant Costs
Let’s address the question that’s likely on your mind: “How much do dental implants cost?”
The honest answer is that it varies based on your specific situation. A single tooth implant has different costs than multiple implants or a full-arch restoration. Preparatory procedures like bone grafting add to the investment. The quality of materials and the expertise of your dental team also factor into the price.
Here at Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, we believe in transparent pricing. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed treatment plan with clear cost estimates so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Why Dental Implants Are Worth the Investment
When patients compare the upfront cost of implants to dentures or bridges, they sometimes experience sticker shock. But consider this:
Dentures: Initial cost might be $1,500-$3,000 per arch, but they require periodic replacement. They can cause accelerated bone loss, affecting your facial structure over time. Many denture wearers struggle with fit, comfort, and dietary limitations.
Bridges: Might cost $2,500-$5,000 per bridge, but they eventually need replacement. They require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth, potentially weakening your smile’s overall structure.
Dental Implants: Higher initial investment, typically $3,000-$6,000 per tooth, but they can last a lifetime with proper care. They preserve bone, protect adjacent teeth, restore full function, and provide the most natural look and feel of any tooth replacement option.
When you factor in the longevity, the quality of life improvements, and the protection of your overall oral health, dental implants often provide the best long-term value.
Making Treatment Affordable
We understand that dental implant treatment is a significant investment. That’s why we work with patients to find solutions that fit their financial situation. We’ll discuss payment plans and financing options that can make your treatment more manageable.
More importantly, we won’t recommend treatment you don’t need. Dr. Jung’s approach is always honest and patient-centered. If a more conservative option would serve you well, we’ll tell you that too.
Why Mansfield Residents Choose Central Park Dental & Orthodontics
Throughout Mansfield, Arlington, Burleson, and the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth communities, patients have options when it comes to dental implants. Here’s what makes our practice different.
Recognition and Expertise
Dr. Jung has been recognized as one of D Magazine’s Best Dentists consistently from 2021 through 2025—a distinction that reflects her expertise, her patient outcomes, and the trust she’s earned within the dental community. Her appearances on NBC, ABC, FOX, CW, and CBS highlight her authority in comprehensive dental care. And her TEDx talk demonstrates her commitment to educating patients about the profound connection between oral health and overall wellness.
But here’s what matters most: Dr. Jung doesn’t just rest on accolades. She continually pursues advanced education and training to provide her patients with the most current, effective treatments available.
A Team That Actually Cares
From the moment you call our office to schedule an appointment, you’ll notice something different about our team. Everyone here—from our front desk to our dental assistants to our hygienists—genuinely cares about your experience and your outcomes.
We’ve heard from countless patients who came to us after negative experiences elsewhere. They tell us they felt rushed, pressured, or uninformed at other practices. That’s not how we operate. We take time to listen, to explain, to answer questions, and to make sure you feel comfortable and confident at every step.
Convenience for Busy Lives
Located right in Mansfield at 1101 Alexis Ct #101, we’re easily accessible from Fort Worth, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, Midlothian, Alvarado, and Burleson. Our office hours accommodate working professionals and busy families. And when you need to reach us, our team is responsive and helpful.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Central Park Dental & Orthodontics for your dental implants is that we provide comprehensive care. You won’t be bounced between multiple specialists in different locations. From your initial consultation through implant placement and final restoration, Dr. Jung oversees your entire journey.
And because we understand how oral health connects to overall wellness, we can address related concerns—like sleep apnea, TMJ issues, or facial pain—as part of your comprehensive treatment plan.
Common Concerns About Dental Implants, Answered Honestly
“Will It Hurt?”
Most patients are surprised by how little discomfort they experience during implant placement. We use local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure itself. Afterward, some soreness is normal, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients describe the discomfort as less intense than a tooth extraction.
The key is following post-operative instructions carefully—avoiding the area while eating, using ice packs as directed, and taking any prescribed medications as instructed.
“How Long Does the Whole Process Take?”
From initial consultation to final crown placement, the complete process typically takes three to nine months. However, much of that time is passive healing while you go about your regular life. The actual appointment time is minimal—usually just a few hours total spread across several visits.
For patients who need bone grafting, the timeline extends because we need to allow the graft to fully integrate before placing the implant. Dr. Jung will provide you with a realistic timeline during your consultation.
“What If My Implant Fails?”
Dental implant success rates are incredibly high—typically over 95%. However, complications can occasionally occur, usually due to:
- Inadequate bone integration
- Infection at the implant site
- Excessive force from teeth grinding
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking during the healing period
- Uncontrolled systemic conditions like diabetes
The good news is that if an implant doesn’t integrate properly, it can often be removed and replaced once the area heals. Dr. Jung monitors your healing carefully to catch and address any concerns early.
“Can I Eat Normally?”
Immediately after implant placement, you’ll need to stick to soft foods while the surgical site heals. But once your final crown is in place and fully healed, you can eat whatever you want. That’s one of the major advantages of implants—they restore your full chewing function without the dietary restrictions that come with dentures.
“Will Anyone Be Able to Tell I Have an Implant?”
When Dr. Jung places your final crown, it’s custom-crafted to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. The restoration blends seamlessly with your smile. Even you might forget which tooth is the implant.
“What About My Age—Am I Too Old?”
Age alone doesn’t disqualify you from dental implants. What matters is your overall health and bone quality, not the number on your driver’s license. We’ve successfully placed implants in patients well into their eighties and nineties.
In fact, older patients often benefit tremendously from implants because they restore function and quality of life that may have been diminished by traditional dentures.
“I’ve Been Told I Don’t Have Enough Bone for Implants. Is That Really True?”
Possibly not. Advanced techniques like bone grafting, sinus lifts, and shorter implant designs have made dental implants possible for many patients who were previously told they weren’t candidates. The only way to know for certain is to have a comprehensive evaluation with 3D imaging.
The Connection Between Dental Implants and Overall Health
This is where Dr. Jung’s comprehensive approach really shines, and it’s a topic she addressed in her TEDx talk: teeth are truly a gateway to your overall well-being.
The Inflammation Factor
Missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures can lead to chronic inflammation in your mouth. This constant inflammatory response doesn’t stay localized—it affects your entire body. Research continues to reveal connections between oral inflammation and conditions like:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
- Pregnancy complications
- Alzheimer’s disease
By replacing missing teeth with stable dental implants and maintaining good oral hygiene, you’re not just improving your smile—you’re potentially reducing your risk for these systemic health issues.
Nutritional Impact
When you can’t chew effectively, your dietary choices change. You might avoid nutrient-dense foods like fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole fruits simply because they’re difficult to eat. Over time, these dietary limitations can lead to nutritional deficiencies that affect your energy levels, immune function, and overall health.
Dental implants restore your ability to eat a varied, nutritious diet, supporting your overall wellness.
Psychological Well-Being
The connection between oral health and mental health is profound. Missing teeth can lead to social withdrawal, decreased self-esteem, and even depression. When patients regain their smile with dental implants, the psychological benefits often match or exceed the physical ones.
We’ve seen patients become more social, more confident in professional settings, and generally more willing to engage fully with life after completing implant treatment.
Sleep and Airway Health
Here’s something most dental practices miss: the position and health of your teeth directly impact your airway and breathing patterns. Missing posterior teeth can lead to changes in jaw position that affect your airway. Poorly fitting dentures can alter your facial structure in ways that contribute to sleep-disordered breathing.
As part of Dr. Jung’s comprehensive evaluation, we assess how tooth loss has affected your facial structure and airway. In some cases, properly placed dental implants can actually support better airway health and improved sleep quality.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Permanent Smile Solution
If you’re dealing with missing teeth, you don’t have to accept limitations on your diet, your speech, or your confidence. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that restores both function and appearance, while protecting your long-term oral health.
At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung and our entire team are committed to providing you with exceptional care grounded in the latest technology and a comprehensive understanding of how oral health connects to your overall wellness. We serve patients throughout Mansfield, Arlington, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, Midlothian, Alvarado, Burleson, and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, whether you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for implants elsewhere, or whether you’re simply exploring your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation. During that appointment, Dr. Jung will conduct a thorough evaluation, answer all your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
You deserve a smile that allows you to live fully, eat comfortably, and feel confident in every situation. Dental implants can provide that, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the journey.
Ready to take the first step?
Call Central Park Dental & Orthodontics today at 817-466-1200 to schedule your comprehensive dental implant consultation. Our friendly team is standing by to help you find a convenient appointment time and answer any preliminary questions.
Visit us at 1101 Alexis Ct #101, Mansfield, TX 76063—conveniently located and easily accessible from throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from the life you deserve. Your permanent smile solution is just a phone call away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How much do dental implants cost in Mansfield, TX?
The cost of dental implants varies based on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, whether preparatory procedures like bone grafting are needed, and the complexity of your case. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, we provide transparent, detailed cost estimates during your consultation. While the initial investment is higher than traditional dentures or bridges, implants often provide better long-term value because they can last a lifetime with proper care. We also discuss payment options and financing to make treatment accessible.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime. The titanium implant post itself is extremely durable and designed to be permanent. The crown attached to the implant may eventually need replacement after many years of use, but the implant foundation typically remains stable throughout your life. Success depends on maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental checkups, protecting your teeth from grinding forces, and managing any systemic health conditions.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants have an excellent safety record and success rates typically exceeding 95%. Titanium—the material used for most implants—is biocompatible, meaning your body accepts it without rejection. Dr. Jung uses advanced 3D imaging to plan implant placement with precision, avoiding nerves and other critical structures. As with any surgical procedure, there are minimal risks, but these are carefully managed through proper planning, sterile technique, and comprehensive post-operative care instructions.
What is the recovery time after dental implant surgery?
Most patients return to normal activities within one to two days after implant placement. You may experience some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. The complete healing process—osseointegration, where the implant fuses with your bone—takes three to six months, but this happens in the background while you continue your regular life. During this time, you won’t be without a tooth; temporary restorations are provided for visible areas.
Can I get dental implants if I have bone loss?
Possibly, yes. While dental implants do require adequate bone density, advanced techniques like bone grafting can build up deficient areas to support implants. Dr. Jung evaluates your bone quality using 3D cone beam CT imaging during your consultation. If bone grafting is needed, we place bone material in the deficient area and allow several months for it to integrate with your natural bone before proceeding with implant placement. Many patients who’ve been told elsewhere that they aren’t candidates for implants discover that with proper preparation, they can successfully receive them.
How does the dental implant procedure work?
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation and examination, including 3D imaging to evaluate your bone structure. If you’re a good candidate, Dr. Jung surgically places a titanium post into your jawbone during a procedure performed under local anesthesia. Over the next few months, the implant fuses with your bone through osseointegration. Once fully integrated, we attach an abutment (connector piece) and finally place a custom-crafted crown that matches your natural teeth. The entire process typically takes three to nine months from start to finish, though most of this time is passive healing.
Do dental implants require special care?
No, one of the major advantages of dental implants is that they’re cared for just like natural teeth. You’ll brush twice daily, floss regularly around the implant, and continue your routine dental hygiene appointments every six months. If you grind your teeth at night, we’ll provide a custom nightguard to protect your implant. There are no special cleaning solutions, no nightly removal routines, and no dietary restrictions once the implant is fully healed. Simply maintain good oral hygiene and keep up with your regular dental visits.
Can dental implants fail, and what happens if they do?
While dental implant success rates are very high, failures can occasionally occur, usually due to inadequate bone integration, infection, excessive grinding forces, poor oral hygiene, or smoking during the healing period. Signs of potential problems include persistent pain, swelling, or mobility of the implant. If an implant doesn’t integrate properly or develops problems, it can often be removed and replaced once the area heals. Dr. Jung monitors your healing progress carefully at follow-up appointments to catch and address any concerns early.
Am I too old for dental implants?
Age alone doesn’t disqualify you from dental implants. What matters is your overall health status and bone quality, not your age. We’ve successfully placed implants in patients in their eighties and nineties. In fact, older adults often benefit tremendously from dental implants because they restore quality of life that may have been diminished by missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures. During your consultation, Dr. Jung will evaluate whether implants are appropriate for your specific situation, regardless of your age.
How do dental implants compare to dentures and bridges?
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional options. Unlike removable dentures that can slip and require messy adhesives, implants are permanently fixed in place. Unlike bridges that require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth, implants stand independently without affecting neighboring teeth. Most importantly, implants actively prevent bone loss by stimulating your jawbone like natural tooth roots, while dentures can actually accelerate bone resorption. Implants restore full chewing function, look completely natural, and with proper care can last a lifetime—often making them the best long-term value despite higher upfront costs.
What can I eat after getting dental implants?
Immediately after implant placement, you’ll stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups for a few days while the surgical site heals. Within a week or two, you can gradually reintroduce more substantial foods. Once your final crown is placed and fully healed—typically three to six months after implant placement—you can eat anything you want. That’s one of the greatest benefits of dental implants: they restore your full chewing power, allowing you to enjoy crisp apples, steaks, raw vegetables, nuts, and all the foods you may have been avoiding with missing teeth or dentures.
Will my dental insurance cover implants?
Dental insurance coverage for implants varies significantly by plan. Some plans provide partial coverage, treating implants similarly to other major restorative procedures. Others may cover certain components like the crown but not the implant post itself. Some plans don’t cover implants at all, considering them elective or cosmetic. During your consultation at Central Park Dental & Orthodonics, our team will review your specific insurance benefits and help you understand what portion of treatment may be covered. We’ll also discuss payment options and financing alternatives to make your treatment manageable regardless of your insurance situation.
Can dental implants get cavities?
The implant post and crown themselves cannot develop cavities because they’re made of artificial materials—titanium and porcelain or zirconia. However, the gum tissue around your implant can still become infected if you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene. This condition, called peri-implantitis, can lead to bone loss around the implant and potentially implant failure. That’s why it’s crucial to brush and floss around your implants just as you would natural teeth, and to keep up with regular professional cleanings. With proper care, your implants remain healthy and stable for the long term.
Related links:
Central Park Dental & Orthodontics
Dr. Jiyoung Jung, DDS
1101 Alexis Ct #101
Mansfield, TX 76063
Phone: 817-466-1200
Serving Mansfield, Arlington, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, Midlothian, Alvarado, Burleson, and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
D Magazine Best Dentists 2021-2025 | Featured on NBC, ABC, FOX, CW, CBS | TEDx Speaker
