Missing teeth can affect more than your appearance. They can make it harder to chew comfortably, alter the way you speak, and gradually cause the jawbone to weaken over time. Fortunately, dental implants offer a long-term solution that addresses all of these concerns, restoring both function and confidence. If you are exploring your oral surgery treatments options, dental implants may be one of the most effective paths forward.
At Legacy Oral Surgery Group, we bring over 40 years of combined professional experience to every patient we serve. Across our locations, we see over 7,000 patients per year, and our Staten Island office carries that same commitment to advanced surgical care. From straightforward procedures to complex reconstructive work. We use the latest equipment and innovative techniques to deliver results that meet the highest standards of oral health care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, a custom-made crown is attached to complete the restoration. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions much like a natural one.
Unlike removable dentures or bridges that sit on top of the gum, implants are anchored directly into the jaw. This makes them more stable during everyday activities like eating and speaking, and it also helps preserve bone structure that would otherwise deteriorate after tooth loss. Tooth loss is a widespread concern among adults, making effective replacement options like implants especially important for long-term oral health.
Dental Implant Services We Offer in Staten Island
Whether you are replacing a single tooth or pursuing a full-mouth restoration, we offer a comprehensive range of implant services tailored to your specific needs. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to handle cases of all complexities, and we take the time to develop a personalized treatment plan for every patient who walks through our doors.
Single Tooth Dental Implants
For patients missing one tooth, a single implant and crown may be all that is needed to restore the gap seamlessly. The implant integrates with the surrounding bone, providing the same stability and natural appearance as the teeth beside it, without altering or compromising any healthy neighboring teeth.
All-On-4 Dental Implants
All-On-4 is a full-arch restoration solution that uses just four strategically placed implants to support an entire row of teeth. This approach makes full-mouth replacement possible in a single surgical visit and is often a strong option for patients who may not qualify for traditional implant placement due to moderate bone loss. It offers a fixed, long-term alternative to removable dentures.
Implant-Supported Bridges
For patients missing several consecutive teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be the right solution. Rather than relying on natural teeth for support the way a traditional bridge does, this option uses implants as anchors, preserving the surrounding teeth while still delivering a stable, natural-looking restoration.
Bone Grafting
Adequate bone volume is essential for successful implant placement. When bone loss has occurred, whether from long-term tooth absence, periodontal disease, or trauma, bone grafting rebuilds the foundation needed to support implants. We offer several grafting techniques, including socket preservation following extractions and ridge augmentation for more significant deficiencies.
Sinus Lifts
For patients who need implants in the upper jaw, the proximity of the maxillary sinus can sometimes limit available bone. A sinus lift gently repositions the sinus membrane and adds bone material beneath it, creating the height and density necessary for safe and successful upper jaw implant placement.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults in good general health who have lost one or more teeth may be candidates for dental implants. A few factors we evaluate include:
- Sufficient jawbone density to support the implant
- Healthy gum tissue free of active periodontal disease
- No uncontrolled systemic conditions that may interfere with healing
- A commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene after placement
Some patients who do not initially qualify may still become candidates after preparatory procedures. If bone density is insufficient, for example, bone grafting may be performed to rebuild the foundation needed for successful implant placement. We take the time to evaluate each patient thoroughly and walk you through all available options before moving forward.
It is worth noting that as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, our role is specifically the surgical side of implant treatment, including evaluation, any preparatory procedures, and the placement of the implant itself. The final crown, bridge, or denture that attaches to the implant is typically completed by your general or restorative dentist. We work closely with referring dentists and welcome patients who come to us directly, and in either case we communicate with your dental team to make sure every aspect of your treatment works together seamlessly.
Caring for Your Implants
One of the many advantages of dental implants is that they do not require any special maintenance regimen. Brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups are all that is needed to keep your implant healthy for years to come. Because implants are made from durable, non-porous materials, they do not stain the way natural teeth can, which is one more reason many patients find them preferable to other replacement options.
That said, the health of the surrounding gum tissue and bone matters just as much as the implant itself. Keeping the area clean and attending follow-up visits allows us to catch any early issues before they develop. For additional guidance, take a look at our tips on caring for your dental implants long-term.
How to Pay for Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants varies from patient to patient, as treatment is highly individualized. Factors that influence overall pricing include the number of implants needed, whether preparatory procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift are required, and the type of restoration used to complete the treatment. A single implant will typically involve a different investment than a full-arch All-On-4 case, for example.
We believe cost should never stand in the way of getting the care you need. Our office staff works directly with your insurance provider to clarify your coverage, minimize out-of-pocket expenses, and make sure your benefits are being used to their full potential. We also offer financing options to help make treatment more accessible, and our team is always happy to walk you through what to expect before you commit to anything.
Why Choose Legacy Oral Surgery Group for Dental Implants in Staten Island?
Our Staten Island location opened in March 2026, bringing over 40 years of combined oral and maxillofacial surgery experience directly to the borough. Staten Island patients now have access to board-certified surgeons who have built a reputation for advanced implant care across New Jersey, without having to travel off the island to get it.
What sets us apart is the depth of training our surgical team brings to every case. Our surgeons hold both dental and medical degrees and completed their residency training at respected hospital programs in the region. That background allows us to handle complex implant cases, from patients who need preparatory bone grafting to full-arch restorations, all under one roof. We see over 7,000 patients per year across our locations, and we are committed to bringing that same standard of care to our newest community.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today
Our team at Legacy Oral Surgery Group is committed to helping Staten Island patients reclaim full, comfortable smiles with care that is tailored to each individual. Dr. Nancy Herbst brings more than 25 years of oral and maxillofacial experience to every procedure, and our entire team is dedicated to making your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. We are here for you before, during, and after your surgical care.
To take the first step toward restoring your smile, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Staten Island location. We look forward to helping you find the solution that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants in Staten Island
What are the consequences of not replacing a missing tooth?
Bone loss is the most significant long-term consequence. Without a root to stimulate it, the jaw bone in the gap begins to resorb, and that process can progress quietly for years. As the bone shrinks, neighboring teeth lose support and can start to drift, bite alignment can be thrown off, and in some cases the shape of the face changes noticeably over time. An implant interrupts that cycle by restoring the mechanical stimulation the bone needs, the same way a natural tooth root did.
How long does getting a dental implant take from start to finish?
From the day of surgery to the placement of the final restoration, most patients are looking at a four-to-six-month process. The majority of that time is the osseointegration period, during which the implant quietly fuses with the jaw bone before any weight-bearing restoration is attached. If bone grafting or another preparatory procedure is needed first, the overall timeline extends accordingly. We walk through a personalized schedule with you at your consultation so you have a realistic sense of each phase.
Does dental implant surgery hurt?
Local anesthesia is used for all implant placements, and IV sedation is available at our Staten Island office for patients who want a more relaxed experience. During the procedure you will not feel pain, though some awareness of pressure is normal. The post-operative period involves mild to moderate soreness and some swelling for a few days, both of which are well managed with prescribed medication and the aftercare instructions we send you home with. The recovery tends to be lighter than most patients expect going in.
Is there a difference between an implant and a bridge?
Yes, and it comes down to what each one does to the surrounding teeth and bone. A bridge requires the two teeth on either side of the gap to be permanently reduced in size so they can serve as anchors. An implant does not involve neighboring teeth at all — it is a fully self-contained restoration that integrates with the jaw bone and stands on its own. Implants also prevent the bone loss that bridges cannot address. For patients who qualify, an implant is generally the more conservative and durable long-term choice.
What does implant treatment cost at your Staten Island office?
Pricing depends on the number of implants, whether any preparatory work such as bone grafting or extractions is needed, and your insurance coverage. Some plans provide partial benefits for implant-related procedures. The most straightforward way to get a clear number is to call our Staten Island office at (718) 948-2900 or reach out through our contact form. Our team will review your coverage and give you an honest picture of costs before you move forward.
