Dental Implants
Missing teeth or an unstable denture can dramatically limit your ability to eat, speak, or smile with confidence.
Fortunately, Drs. Michael Sharp and Aoua Coulibaly can restore your smile with state-of-the-art dental implants.
Discover why patients throughout Portage and Kalamazoo, MI, trust us for their dental implants.
An Advanced Tooth Replacement Solution
Dental implants are titanium devices that replace lost tooth roots and provide support to crowns, bridges, and dentures to completely replace lost teeth from the root to the chewing surface. They don't just restore excellent function—they also stop the jaw atrophy that results from tooth loss. We invite you to learn more about this dentistry solution and why so many throughout Portage choose Sharp Smile Center to provide dental implants.
Why Are They So Stable?
A single implant consists of three parts, which work together to give patients the most stable tooth loss solution available in restorative dentistry.
Implant
Implants are made of titanium alloy, which is a material utilized by NASA for its lightweight feel and exceptional strength. The titanium implant acts as an artificial tooth root and stabilizes your custom restoration. When cared for properly, your implants can last anywhere from 40 years to a lifetime.
Abutment
Abutments are small screw-like parts that attach to your titanium implant posts. They serve as the point of connection between the implant and the restoration. Abutments hold your prosthetic securely in place but allow the dentist to remove the teeth for occasional cleaning and replacement.
Restoration
Restorations are custom-designed prosthetic teeth that come in the form of a crown, bridge, or denture. Your restoration is made from incredibly realistic-looking porcelain ceramic that mimics the properties of natural tooth enamel. Our quality prosthetics are stain-resistant, durable, and can last well over a decade with proper maintenance.
Experience the Benefits of Dental Implants
If you are missing any number of teeth, dental implants can be the first step in restoring your smile. Dr. Sharp has advanced training, which he uses to skillfully place implants. He has a dental implant himself, and he's here to help you through every step of your implant journey.
Ready to Restore Your Missing Teeth? Visit Our Dental Practice Today
Dr. Sharp is a highly trained dentist who can perform all phases of dental implant treatment at our practice serving greater Portage, MI. Our practice has received hundreds of positive reviews from satisfied patients. We are a trusted source for top-of-the-line restorative dentistry and will be happy to help you smile with confidence once again.
If you are interested in getting started on your dental implant treatment, contact the Sharp Smile Center today. You can schedule a consultation online or by calling:
(269) 344-4004
Check Out Our
5-Star Reviews
Chevelle Piper
Kalamazoo, MI
2024
I love Sharp Smile Center. Everyone is so friendly. I am so glad that I have found them, I am not so anxious about going to the dentist anymore & I have really come a long way in their care! Bree is my hygentist & I love her! She is so friendly & sweet and she always does a great job! Everyone always takes the best care of me!
View on GoogleDavid Jones
Kalamazoo, MI
2024
My visit to the sharp smile center was the same as usual JUST GREAT. I came there as a walk in because I wanted a second opinion Dr. C, and the team provided me with the best care as possible. More importantly I just like the fact that SMC always has the latest, updated equipment. I will always referred people to the SMC
View on GoogleBefore and After Dental Implants Real Patient Photos
Specialized Training For Complex Cases
Dr. Sharp has additional training in oral surgery and can handle patients with complex restorative needs. We take on cases from referring dentists and can handle every step of your implant care.
Portage's Home for Comprehensive Care
/
Drs. Sharp and Coulibaly have earned many advanced degrees and certifications. Their education, skill, and experience allow them to provide for virtually all of their patients' needs right in their Kalamazoo, MI, dental office. This means they typically do not have to refer patients out to other providers and send them shuttling back and forth throughout Portage and beyond.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants begins at $4,500 for our patients in the greater Portage, MI, area. While the total will vary from patient to patient depending on the complexity of their case, you can generally expect the cost to reflect the number of implants you need.
Implants are undoubtedly a major investment but can pay off in oral health benefits and longterm savings. In addition to giving you a convenient solution for tooth loss, dental implants prevent certain conditions like gum recession and bone loss and can save you from needing expensive restorative procedures in the future. Furthermore, implant-supported restorations last longer than traditional prosthetics and will need far fewer replacements over the course of a lifetime.
You Have Several Treatment Options Traditional Dental Implants and Beyond
Traditional implants can replace any number of missing teeth on the upper and lower dental arches. Typically, one implant is placed for every missing tooth. In order to qualify for traditional implants, patients need to be in good health and have sufficient jawbone density. If you are lacking in bone volume, we are able to perform certain preparatory procedures such as bone grafts and sinus lifts to restore your candidacy.
Worried You Don't Qualify?
All-on-X Implants Work For Patients With Bone Loss
Although this general approach has been widely known as All-on-4 for many years, we prefer to call this treatment All-on-X because it can be customized to involve as many implants as you need to support a full-arch restoration. Dr. Sharp can personalize this treatment to accommodate your needs while capitalizing on the same principle: maximizing contact with existing bone tissue to avoid the need for bone grafting. If you have experienced jawbone atrophy and have been told that you need a bone grafting procedure before you can receive dental implants, Dr. Sharp can determine if this full-arch treatment is right for you.
X-Nav Placement Technology Minimizing Risks — Maximizing Your Benefits
Dr. Sharp uses the X-Nav system to make sure your implants are placed in the right location, angle and depth with a minimized margin of error. This computer-guided technology is like GPS for implant placement, giving Dr. Sharp turn-by-turn instructions, tracking his movements in tenths of millimeters. This sophisticated tool, in combination with Dr. Sharp's refined skills, can give you:
- Excellent crown, bridge, and denture function
- A better-looking result
- Minimized risks
- A minimally invasive procedure
Immediate Temporary Dentures
Dr. Sharp can perform 3D printing of temporary full-arch dentures in a single appointment. While your permanent dentures are being crafted, you can begin experiencing many of the benefits of implant-supported dentures right away, such as being able to speak clearly and smile with confidence. This process involves a full digital workflow with superior accuracy and no messy impressions. When you choose Dr. Sharp in Portage for full-arch dentures, you'll have something to smile about right away.
It can take three to six months for the jaw to completely heal after implant placement. During that time, you will need to eat a diet of softer foods. When healing is complete, Dr. Sharp can place your permanent denture that will allow you to eat any foods you choose.
Timeline for Dental Implants
Overall, our dental implants are more than 98% successful.
Sedation Makes It Easier
Many patients postpone this important dental treatment because they feel anxious about undergoing a surgical procedure. We strive to make surgery as safe, comfortable, and efficient as possible for patients throughout greater Portage, MI, and Kalamazoo. Patients who are particularly nervous or sensitive can find comfort in sedation dentistry. Depending on your needs and medical history, you can undergo your procedure with the aid of oral conscious or nitrous oxide sedation. These techniques induce a state of deep relaxation without putting you to sleep, safely lowering anxiety and sensory perception.
We ensure your comfort throughout every step of treatment and work hard to ease your concerns. We are always happy to explain all sedation options to determine which one is right for you.
Dedicated to Your Comfort
Patients throughout Portage and Kalamazoo understand they are in good hands when they come to us. Dr. Sharp has received advanced training in oral conscious sedation, allowing him to provide relaxing and virtually painless treatment to patients. In comparison, many dentists are not even certified to offer oral conscious sedation at all.
Our passion for providing an incredible experience goes beyond just our procedures. We have taken several steps to give the Sharp Smile Center a spa-like quality. These include Tempur-Pedic pads on our operating chairs, massage chairs, wax spa, noise-canceling headphones, and complimentary coffee and beverage bar. Call (269) 344-4004 or write to us to request your dental implants appointment.
Portage & Kalamazoo
Rely on Us
"In my opinion, the best dental practice in Kalamazoo. I suffer from extreme anxiety and Denise made me completely at ease. I highly recommend this dental practice for anyone who suffers anxiety from dental procedures. They are very compassionate, gentle and understanding." Richard Stewart
We Make Recovery Safe and Efficient
PRP & PRF for Better Healing
Our dental office is one of the only practices serving Portage and Kalamazoo, MI, to use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and plasma-rich fibrin (PRF) to expedite your healing and lay groundwork for the success of your implants. During your appointment, we will draw your own blood, place it into a centrifuge, separate the blood from the growth factors, and reinsert the purified proteins back into the surgical site. This advanced scientific process promotes a speedy recovery, helping patients heal more comfortably and effectively after their implant surgery.
The Choice Is Simple...
Superior Treatment Guaranteed at Sharp Smile Center
While we do our best to make it look easy, the reality is, dental implants are fairly complicated and should only be handled by skilled professionals. Beyond his 35 years of experience in general dentistry, Dr. Sharp has studied alongside leading implantology masters—like Dr. Bill Dorfman from Extreme Smile Makeover—and has completed studies at the prestigious Misch International Implant Institute and the Kois Center in Seattle. Our level of expertise ensures a higher standard of care and the best possible results for your treatment. The choice is simple. Trust Sharp Smile Center with your oral health and smile. Schedule a consultation at our Kalamazoo, MI, practice online, or call:
(269) 344-4004
More Powerful Reviews From Portage
KIM MURRAY
Kalamazoo, MI
2023
I had my teeth cleaned yesterday and it was a great experience. My hygienist was Bree and not only was she friendly, she was very gentle and knowledgeable. This dentist office is a wonderful place as Dr Sharp and his staff know what they’re doing and I always feel very cared for. I recommend them highly.
View on GoogleDarcy Ellinger
Kalamazoo, MI
2023
I feel fortunate to have found the Sharp Smile Center! I met Dr Sharp and his staff yesterday for an initial consultation. Dr Sharp exudes warmth and caring and inspires confidence. He was a wonderful listener about both my immediate needs and where I hoped my future smile would be. I felt very much at ease throughout our visit.
View on Google
The Gold Standard
In Tooth Restoration
Dental Implants VS Traditional Restorations
Implant-supported restorations offer patients several benefits that cannot be matched by traditional restorative methods. Consider these four life-changing advantages:
Better Fit
Compared to older methods of tooth replacement like dentures, restorations supported by dental implants fit more securely and comfortably. Because they are directly attached to your jawbone, they will never slip out of place. You can eat all the foods you love and speak clearly.
Convenient Maintenance
Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are fixed in place and do not need to be taken out at night or rinsed after meals. They are cared for in a similar fashion as natural teeth and will not require any changes to your lifestyle or routines.
Improved Health
Over time tooth loss can alter your bone structure and make you appear older. Dental implants are the only restorative method that protects your jawbone, giving you a full healthy smile and helping you maintain a youthful appearance.
Greater Confidence
Implant-supported restorations are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, allowing you to take pride in your smile once again. Dental implants are truly an investment in your quality of life and can profoundly improve your self-esteem and confidence.
Elizabeth's Story
In this dental testimonial, Elizabeth explains that her previous dentist sent her to Dr. Sharp for help with her crumbling teeth. Our friendly, knowledgeable team quickly put her at ease, making treatment and recovery as simple as possible. Now, she is incredibly happy with her beautiful smile.
Portage Recommends Dr. Sharp
Lois Snyder
Kalamazoo, MI
2023
As a longtime patient of Sharp Smile Center, I’m always greeted with welcoming smiles by their professional, well-trained staff. I especially appreciate Dr. Sharp’s state of the art skills and years of experience. He’s given me a happy smile for over 30 years!
View on GoogleAmanda Cherian
Kalamazoo, MI
2023
I highly recommend Dr. Sharp and his practice. The people are so nice and Dr. Sharp is an expert at his craft. The views of the trees and the music are great for staying relaxed.
View on GoogleImplants Are Worth The Investment
When you choose dental implants at Sharp Smile Center in Kalamazoo, you stand to get the best possible return on your investment. Please contact us if you have any questions and we will be happy to help.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Patient education is the key to the success of any medical treatment, and dental implants are no exception. Dr. Sharp looks forward to answering all of your questions during your consultation. Until then, we have provided answers to some of the questions that patients ask most often about this landmark treatment:
Does dental insurance cover implants?
Most dental insurance plans will contribute to certain phases and components of dental implant treatment, such as any necessary tooth extractions or gum disease treatment, as well as the crown, bridge, or dentures that the implants will support. The implant itself is not covered by basic dental insurance, but our convenient financing through CareCredit and LendingClub can help you budget for these out-of-pocket expenses.How long do dental implants last?
While your crown, bridge, or denture could last 10 to 15 years or more before it needs to be replaced, dental implants can last a lifetime. They key to experiencing the longest-lasting benefits of dental implants is to choose an experienced dentist, maintain excellent oral hygiene, and visit your dentist for checkups every six months.Are dental implants painful?
Thanks to gentle techniques, local anesthesia, and optional sedation, patients widely report that receiving a dental implant is no more painful than undergoing tooth extraction. You may experience mild to moderate discomfort at the treatment site for a few days after surgery, but this can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
"Amazing! They really care about you."
Cindy Welch
Kalamazoo, MI
2022
Called for an appointment thinking I'd have a long wait, but they were able to work me in that same day for a chipped crown that needed to be replaced. I appreciate that type of service!
View on GoogleCasie Rayman
Kalamazoo, MI
2022
Amazing! They really care about you as the individual and their patient. They listen and they work their treatment plan around what's best for you and your comfort level. I've been attending the same dentist office and care team since I was a child and I wouldn't recommend going anywhere else!
View on Google
