Losing a tooth on the Eastern Shore leaves you with a decision: leave the gap, bridge it, wear a removable partial, or replace the tooth root and all with a dental implant. Babston Oral Surgery helps Fairhope patients make that decision with a 3D scan, a clear explanation of the options, and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who places the implant himself. Our office is in Mobile, across the Bayway on I-10, and new patients can call or text (251) 758-4700 to schedule.
Dental Implants Explained for Fairhope Patients
A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia post placed in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be. Over several months, the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration. Once it is secure, the implant supports a crown for a single tooth, a bridge for several teeth, or a denture for a full arch. Because it replaces the root, an implant stimulates the jawbone, which helps prevent the bone loss that follows a missing tooth.
Implant vs. Bridge vs. Partial: Weighing Your Options
Each option has a place. A bridge relies on the teeth on either side of the gap, which are reshaped to hold crowns. A removable partial clips onto your remaining teeth and comes out for cleaning. An implant stands on its own, so it doesn’t change the neighboring teeth.
- Choose an implant when the teeth beside the gap are healthy and you want a long-term, fixed tooth that protects the bone.
- A bridge may make sense when the neighboring teeth already need crowns, or when surgery isn’t a good fit for your health.
- A partial may be practical when several teeth are missing in different areas and cost is the main concern.
At your consultation, we will go over these choices with you based on your scan and your goals.
Why the 3D Scan Comes First
At your consultation, we use 3D CBCT imaging to measure the bone, map the nerves and sinuses, and plan the implant’s exact position before surgery. This planning step is what makes implant placement precise and predictable. It also tells us right away whether you need additional treatment before an implant can be placed.
When Bone Grafting Is Part of the Plan
Bone begins to shrink soon after a tooth is lost. If you lost a tooth years ago or had an infection or injury in the area, there may not be enough bone to hold an implant securely. bone grafting rebuilds that foundation. Common approaches include grafting a socket at the time of extraction, rebuilding the ridge, and a sinus lift for upper back teeth. Most patients return to normal routines within a few days of grafting while the new bone matures over several months.
If a damaged tooth still needs to come out, we handle the extraction too. See our page on tooth extractions.
Single Teeth, Multiple Teeth, and Full Arches
Single-Tooth Implants
One implant and one crown replace one missing tooth without touching the teeth next to it.
Implant-Supported Bridges
When several teeth in a row are missing, two implants can often support a bridge of three or more teeth, so you need fewer implants than missing teeth.
All-On-4® Full-Arch Implants
Four strategically placed implants support a fixed, full arch of teeth. It is a popular option for Fairhope patients tired of loose dentures, and many receive temporary teeth the same day as surgery.
Your Surgeon
Dr. Michael Babston, DMD, MD, is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon trained at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned his dental degree, graduated from the UAB School of Medicine, and served as chief resident of the UAB Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program. An Alabama native, he moved to the Gulf Coast in 2017 after completing his residency. Dr. Babston and his team often check in personally after procedures to make sure recovery is going smoothly.
Sedation and Comfort
Babston Oral Surgery has a full-time nurse anesthetist (CRNA) on staff and offers sedation options that range from nitrous oxide to IV sedation. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself home. If you choose IV sedation, plan for someone to drive you back to Fairhope.
Insurance and Financing
We accept most insurance providers and offer financing options. Implant coverage varies between plans, so we will review your benefits and explain your costs before treatment begins.
Dental Implant FAQs for Fairhope Residents
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth are candidates. We look at bone density, gum health, and medical factors such as uncontrolled diabetes or smoking, which can affect healing.
Does implant surgery hurt?
The area is fully numbed, and sedation is available. Most patients report mild soreness and swelling for a few days, managed with soft foods and the aftercare instructions we provide.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, implants can last for decades. The crown on top may eventually need replacing from normal wear.
Can my Fairhope dentist refer me?
Yes. Dentists can send patients through our online referral form. You can also contact us directly without a referral.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Babston Oral Surgery is located at 100 S University Blvd, Suite A, Mobile, AL 36608. To get started, call or text (251) 758-4700 or request an appointment online. Learn more on our dental implants in Mobile page or our page on oral surgery for Fairhope patients.