Dental Implants Specialist

Yelena Shapiro, DDS, MS -  - Prosthodontist

Yelena Shapiro, DDS, MS

Prosthodontist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Murray Hill, New York, NY

Dental implants are typically the preferred way to replace a missing tooth because these prosthetics replace both the root and the crown. For superior dental implant care in New York City, contact the practice of Yelena Shapiro DDS in Murray Hill, Manhattan. Dr. Shapiro provides expert dental implant services right in the office. Get started on your treatment by booking a consultation online or by calling the office directly.

Dental Implants Q & A

Why do I need a dental implant?

When you lose a tooth, either because of trauma or because of necessary extraction, you risk losing bone and gum tissue. Once these components deteriorate, they never come back. The purpose of a dental implant is to preserve tissues and minimize teeth shifting. 

Getting a dental implant is important to:

  • Help you bite and chew normally
  • Minimize speech issues
  • Keep your smile intact
  • Minimize gum damage

Dental implants are also beneficial for improving your self-esteem. You can even get several implants if you have multiple missing teeth. 

How long does it take to heal from dental implant surgery?

To determine if a dental implant from the office of Yelena Shapiro DDS is right for you, Dr. Shapiro performs an oral exam and gathers images of your teeth and gums. She needs to ensure you have adequate bone and gum tissue to support an implant. 

On the day of your implant surgery, Dr. Shapiro makes an incision in your gums and places a titanium post directly into the underlying bone. It can take at least 6-12 weeks for the post to fuse with your bone. 

Once your dental implant is healed, Dr. Shapiro has you come back to the clinic to attach an abutment and crown to your implant. This completes the process. Your new dental implant and crown blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. 

How do I care for a dental implant?

It’s important to care for your new dental implant just as you do your natural teeth. While dental implants don’t decay, gum and bone structures can break down if they become infected. 

Not only do you need to brush twice a day and floss daily, it’s also important to visit the practice of Yelena Shapiro DDS every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. And you should come in as soon as possible if it feels like your implant is loose or shifting. This may be a sign of gum disease or another issue. 

You can restore your smile and bite with dental implants from the office of Yelena Shapiro DDS. Click on the online scheduler to book your implant exam or call to book a visit by phone.