Losing a tooth sets off a chain reaction that most patients never see coming. Within months of an extraction, the jawbone beneath the gap begins to shrink, the surrounding teeth shift to fill the space, and the face slowly begins to hollow in ways that age your appearance far faster than the calendar. What makes dental implants different from every other tooth replacement option is that they stop this process entirely by replacing the root itself, not just the visible crown above the gumline.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Drs. Scott Goodove and Peter Zagursky are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons who have helped patients throughout Virginia Beach and Chesapeake replace missing teeth with results that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. As your hometown oral surgeons, independent, locally owned, and relationship-focused, we provide the advanced surgical precision and personalized care to deliver implant outcomes you can count on for decades. To explore whether you may be a candidate, visit our contact page to request a consultation, or continue reading to learn everything about our dental implant process.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth from the root up. Once in place, each post integrates with your natural bone through a biological process called osseointegration, forming a stable, permanent anchor. That anchor then supports a custom crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture, restoring both the function and appearance of your smile.
Each implant system has three components working together. The titanium post acts as the artificial tooth root, fusing with the jawbone to create a foundation as strong as your natural dentition. The abutment connects the post to the visible restoration above the gumline. The crown, bridge, or denture is custom-crafted to match the color, size, and contour of your surrounding teeth so the result is seamless and natural-looking.
According to a long-term study published through the American Dental Association, dental implants placed by experienced surgeons have a 95.6% survival rate over 38 to 40 years, making them the most durable tooth replacement option available. Unlike traditional bridges, dental implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support — your healthy adjacent teeth stay intact, and your jawbone continues to receive the stimulation it needs to maintain its density and shape for years to come.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants in Virginia Beach?
Most healthy adults who are missing one or more teeth are potential candidates for dental implants. The two primary requirements are sufficient jawbone density to support the implant post, and healthy gum tissue free of active periodontal disease. Your overall health, including any medical conditions or medications, is also factored into candidacy evaluation.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer advantages that go well beyond cosmetic improvement. They restore full chewing function, allowing you to eat the foods you enjoy without restriction — important for Virginia Beach residents with active coastal lifestyles who don’t want dietary limitations getting in the way. They protect the integrity of your jawbone by providing the stimulation that bone tissue needs to stay healthy. And because they are anchored directly into the bone, they do not slip, shift, or require adhesives the way removable dentures do.
From a long-term value standpoint, implants are among the most cost-effective tooth replacement options available. A well-maintained implant can last 25 years or more, compared to traditional bridges or dentures that typically require replacement every 7 to 15 years. Implants also help preserve the facial structure that bone loss would otherwise compromise, keeping your appearance consistent as you age.
Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures: How Do They Compare?
Understanding the differences between tooth replacement options helps you make the right decision for your long-term oral health and quality of life.
| Dental Implant | Bridge | Denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replaces the root | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Prevents bone loss | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Alters adjacent teeth | ✗ No | ✓ Yes (crowns req’d) | Varies |
| Expected lifespan | 25+ years | 7–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Slippage or adhesives | None | None | Yes — adhesive often needed |
| Maintenance | Brush & floss normally | Floss threader required | Daily removal & soaking |
Types of Dental Implants We Offer
Not every patient needs the same solution. Goodove Oral Surgery offers implant options designed to address a full range of tooth loss situations, from a single missing tooth to a complete arch replacement. Our surgical team works closely with your restorative dentist to determine the best approach for your anatomy and goals.
Single-Tooth Implants — Replace one missing tooth with a post, abutment, and custom crown that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. The most direct, long-lasting solution for isolated tooth loss.
Multiple-Tooth Implant Bridges — Support an implant-retained bridge to replace several consecutive missing teeth without altering adjacent natural teeth. More stable and bone-preserving than a traditional tooth-supported bridge.
All-On-4 / Full-Arch Implants — Use four to six strategically positioned implants to support a full fixed arch of teeth, providing a permanent, non-removable solution for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth on one or both arches. Often completed with a same-day provisional restoration, so you leave our office with a functional smile. This solution eliminates the instability, dietary restrictions, and daily adhesive requirements of conventional full dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures — Attach to implants placed in the jaw, eliminating the movement and discomfort associated with conventional removable dentures while preserving jawbone density. Available as both removable (snap-on) and fixed options.
The Dental Implant Process at Goodove Oral Surgery in Virginia Beach
Your implant journey at Goodove Oral Surgery follows a clear, phased process. From the first consultation at our Virginia Beach or Chesapeake office through final restoration, our board-certified surgeons guide every step.
The surgical phase involves placing the titanium post into the jaw under local anesthesia. Sedation options are available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience. Most patients return to work within a few days of implant surgery. Once the implant is fully integrated, the final restoration is placed by your restorative dentist. Our team provides detailed post-operative care instructions and remains available throughout the entire process. Review our dental implant surgery care instructions for a complete guide to preparing for and recovering from your procedure.
Dental Implant Cost and Insurance Coverage in Virginia Beach
Dental implant costs in Virginia Beach vary based on the number of teeth being replaced, whether bone grafting or preparatory procedures are needed, the type of restoration chosen, and your individual anatomy. A single implant with a crown typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 when all components are included. Full-arch implant solutions such as All-On-4 are priced per arch and reflect the comprehensive nature of the treatment.
Insurance coverage for dental implants varies by plan. Many dental PPO plans provide partial coverage for implant placement, and some cases qualify for medical insurance reimbursement — particularly when tooth loss resulted from disease, trauma, or medical necessity. Our team verifies your insurance benefits before treatment and identifies every available reimbursement path. We also accept CareCredit and Cherry Financing, which offer flexible monthly payment options to fit a range of budgets. Learn more about our accepted insurance plans and financing options.
Dental Implant Considerations for Virginia Beach Military Families
Virginia Beach is home to one of the largest military communities in the country, with personnel and their families serving at NAS Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and Naval Station Norfolk just across the water. Military families face unique dental care challenges — frequent relocations, deployment timing, and the need for durable long-term solutions that don’t require constant adjustment.
Dental implants are an ideal solution for active-duty personnel and veterans because once osseointegration is complete, they require no ongoing adjustments and are maintained exactly like natural teeth. TRICARE dental coverage varies by plan, and VA dental benefits may cover implant treatment in certain qualifying circumstances. Our team can help you navigate insurance verification and identify all available coverage paths before treatment begins.
Why Choose Goodove Oral Surgery for Dental Implants in Virginia Beach?
Goodove Oral Surgery is a community-focused, independent oral surgery practice that Drs. Goodove and Zagursky chose to keep locally owned while others have gone corporate. That independence means our surgeons make every clinical decision based on what is best for each patient — not on what a corporate network recommends. It means a consistent, personal relationship with your surgeon from consultation through final healing. And it means the flexibility to spend the time each case actually deserves.
Our surgical suite is equipped with state-of-the-art cone beam CT imaging, advanced monitoring technology, and the full sedation capabilities needed to make your procedure as comfortable and safe as possible. All staff maintain CPR certification. Our doctors hold operating privileges at Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center for patients requiring a hospital-based setting.
We serve patients from across the Hampton Roads area, including Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, and the surrounding communities. Whether you need a single implant or a full-arch restoration, our team is here to guide you through every step with the skill, technology, and personal attention your care deserves. Contact our Virginia Beach or Chesapeake office to schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants In Virginia Beach, VA
How much do dental implants cost in Virginia Beach?
Dental implant costs vary based on the number of teeth being replaced, whether bone grafting or other preparatory procedures are needed, and the type of restoration chosen. A single implant with a crown, an implant-supported bridge, and a full-arch solution all have different cost structures. Our practice accepts most major dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental PPO, Aetna, Cigna, MetLife, and United Healthcare Dental, and we offer CareCredit and Cherry Financing to make treatment accessible. Contact our Virginia Beach office at (757) 412-2002 or our Chesapeake office at (757) 819-7002 to request a personalized cost estimate based on your specific needs and coverage.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The complete dental implant process typically takes 3 to 6 months from placement to final restoration, though the timeline varies based on your individual healing rate and whether preparatory procedures are needed. After placing the titanium implant post, osseointegration requires several months to complete. During this period, the bone grows around the implant surface, creating a permanent bond. Once osseointegration is confirmed, the abutment is attached and your final crown, bridge, or denture is fabricated and delivered. If bone grafting is required before implant placement, the overall timeline extends by 3 to 6 additional months. Patients who qualify for same-day implant placement can receive a temporary restoration the day of surgery, reducing the number of appointments required.
Are dental implants painful?
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable dental implant surgery is. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience. During the surgery itself, patients typically feel pressure but not pain. In the days following surgery, some soreness, swelling, and minor bruising are normal. Most patients manage this with over-the-counter pain relievers and return to regular daily activities within a few days. The discomfort is generally comparable to, or less than, what most patients experience after a tooth extraction. Following your post-operative instructions carefully will minimize discomfort and support proper healing.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
Dental implants placed by experienced, board-certified oral surgeons have documented long-term success rates above 95%. A 40-year follow-up study cited by the American Dental Association found a 95.6% implant survival rate, making them among the most reliable restorative procedures in modern dentistry. Success is influenced by adequate bone density, good oral hygiene, overall health status, and adherence to post-operative care. Our practice uses cone beam CT imaging to plan every placement with precision, reducing the likelihood of complications. Patients who avoid smoking, maintain thorough home care, and attend regular dental checkups consistently achieve the best outcomes over time.
Can I get dental implants if I have bone loss?
Yes. Bone loss does not automatically disqualify you from dental implants. If a tooth has been missing for an extended period, the underlying jawbone may have lost density or volume, but a bone graft procedure can rebuild that foundation. During grafting, bone material is placed at the implant site to restore adequate volume and stimulate new bone growth. The material may come from your own body, a tissue bank, or a synthetic source. Healing from a bone graft typically takes 3 to 6 months before implant placement can proceed. Our surgeons use cone beam CT imaging to assess the exact extent of bone loss and determine whether grafting is needed and how much. Many patients who were told elsewhere that they were not candidates for implants have been successfully treated after a grafting procedure.
Do dental implants look like natural teeth?
Yes. Dental implant crowns are custom-fabricated to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding natural teeth. The final restoration emerges from the gumline just like a natural tooth, with no visible hardware or clasps. The materials used, typically ceramic or zirconia, reflect light in a way that closely mimics natural enamel. Because the implant preserves the jawbone underneath, your facial profile remains stable over time, unlike with dentures or missing teeth that allow bone resorption and eventual facial collapse. Patients who see the final results often report that the implant is indistinguishable from their natural teeth, even to their dentist.
Can I get all my teeth replaced with dental implants?
Yes. Full-arch implant solutions can replace all teeth on the upper arch, lower arch, or both using as few as four to six implants per arch. Using fewer strategically angled implants makes it possible to avoid the areas of greatest bone loss and often eliminates the need for bone grafting. The result is a fixed, non-removable set of teeth that looks and functions like natural dentition. For patients who prefer a removable option, implant-supported overdentures attach to two to four implants per arch, offering dramatically improved stability and jawbone preservation compared to conventional dentures. Our team will evaluate your bone structure, bite, and health history to recommend which full-arch approach is right for you.
Our Oral Surgeons In Virginia Beach, VA
Dr. Goodove brings years of specialized oral surgery expertise to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, serving as your trusted hometown oral surgeon. With operating privileges at multiple local hospitals, Dr. Goodove delivers patient-centered care backed by advanced training and a commitment to creating comfortable, anxiety-free experiences. His philosophy of accessibility and personal attention sets the foundation for the practice's reputation as "the doctor's doctor" in the community.
Dr. Zagursky is a retired Army veteran who continues to serve the community through exceptional oral surgery care. With extensive military experience and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Zagursky brings discipline, precision, and a deep commitment to patient welfare to every procedure. His background working with diverse patient populations and dedication to the underserved makes him an invaluable part of the Goodove Oral Surgery team.
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