Dental Implants at Habelt Dentistry, San Francisco, CA

Dental implants are surgically implanted titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone to act as natural tooth roots. Habelt Dentistry in San Francisco offers dental implant treatment to individuals with missing teeth. They provide a reliable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures that look, feel, and perform like your teeth.

With implants, individuals can smile, speak, and eat with confidence. As the implant is absorbed into the jawbone, it also helps preserve bone health and facial contours that would otherwise deteriorate after tooth loss.

Dental Implant Treatment Process

• Consultation & Planning: We begin with a comprehensive examination, which includes X-rays or 3D imaging and an assessment of your dental and medical history. During this visit, Dr. Erich or Dr. Thomas Habelt will discuss your objectives and address any questions you may have. We determine if implants are suitable for you and establish the best course of action. If needed, we'll refer you to a dental specialist for more complicated planning. Our goal is to thoroughly explain your treatment and tailor it to your individual needs.
• Implant Placement: In the first step, a small titanium implant is placed surgically into your jawbone. This metal anchor is positioned below the gum where your missing tooth is. The implant is then left to heal undisturbed. Over the following several months, the bone firmly attaches to the implant (an osseointegration process), forming a good base for the new tooth. While you heal, you may wear a temporary denture or crown and eat a soft diet as needed.
• Healing & Restoration: After the implant has fully integrated (usually 3–6 months), stage two begins. The implant is uncovered, and a small connector (healing abutment) is attached to the post. We then take impressions of your mouth and design a personalized prosthetic tooth to suit your specific needs. Finally, a crown (or bridge/denture) is placed on top of the implant. This completes your restoration, so you now have a natural-looking, working tooth in its place. The entire implant process typically takes 6–8 months from start to completion. However, many patients can continue with their regular day-to-day activities while undergoing treatment without too much disruption.
• Follow-Up & Maintenance: Once your implant restoration is finished, we schedule follow-up visits to track healing and oral health. Healthy home care (flossing and brushing) and regular dental check-ups are required to maintain your implant's overall health. With proper care, dental implants can have a lifespan of several decades and provide a long-term solution for tooth replacement.

Advanced Technology & Unique Features

At Habelt Dentistry, we utilize the latest dental technology to enhance the safety, comfort, and precision of our implant procedures. As an example, we often perform implant surgery under magnification using a dental microscope. We also use newer electric handpieces instead of older air-powered drills; the electric drills whir along smoothly with less vibration and noise for a more enjoyable experience.

• Digital X-rays: Our digital X-ray technology produces clear images on a screen, exposing you to significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays. That allows us to find cavities or bone changes earlier.
• Laser Dentistry: We utilize dental lasers for a range of treatments, which can remove decay or reshape gums without the use of heat, drills, or vibration. In most situations, no anesthetic is required, and procedures are quicker and more comfortable. Laser checks can even detect hidden cavities at an early stage, and decay may be reversed with fluoride at an early stage. Laser dentistry can also speed healing following periodontal treatment or minor surgery.
• Intraoral Camera: A small intraoral camera allows us to show you enlarged, close-up photographs of your teeth and gums during your exam. This way, you can notice tiny stains, cracks, or early decay on your own and get a glimpse of your diagnosis. Clear visual feedback translates into quicker, more accurate diagnoses and treatments, saving your chair time.
• Comfort Options: For nervous patients, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation. It's a safe, pleasant-smelling gas that you breathe through a mask, which makes you feel calm and euphoric, but not sleepy. It can decrease the gag reflex and anxiety, and disappears immediately after you visit with no after-effects ("hangover") of any kind.

Meet the Dentists

Dr. Erich K. Habelt, DDS: San Francisco-born Dr. Erich graduated with his DDS from the University of the Pacific (Dugoni School of Dentistry) in 1984. For nearly 40 years, Dr. Erich has treated patients in the Bay Area with general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including dental implants. Dr. Erich keeps his knowledge current and is a current member of professional associations. Specifically, he is a member of the International Team for Implantology (ITI), which suggests his specialist interest in implant dentistry.

Dr. Thomas A. Habelt, DDS: Another alumnus of the Dugoni School of Dentistry, Dr. Thomas is committed to integrating the latest advances in dental technology and techniques. He practices evidence-based care and patient education. Dr. Thomas is well-educated in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, so implant restorations are designed with function and esthetics in mind. He is a current member of national and local dental organizations, including the California and American Dental Associations.

Insurance & Payment Options

Insurance

Habelt Dentistry is in-network for most major dental insurance providers. We will help you understand your coverage and maximize your insurance benefits. Bring your insurance information to the consultation so we can properly file claims in a timely and efficient manner. If you have any questions about your dental implant coverage with your insurance, our team is more than happy to assist.

Payment

We accept all major credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa). Payment is typically due at the time of service. Most insurance companies respond in a few weeks after we have filed a claim; any outstanding balance not covered by insurance is the patient's responsibility.

Schedule Your Appointment

Ready to revive your smile with dental implants? Call Habelt Dentistry today to schedule a consultation or visit our website.