Replacing Failing Teeth
Replacing Failing Teeth Implants is a specialized dental service provided by the board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Your teeth are failing — here are your real options, explained honestly by a prosthodontist.
Holding Onto Failing Teeth Costs More in the Long Run Than Replacing Them
There comes a point in the life of a heavily restored tooth where one more crown, one more root canal, one more repair is no longer in your best interest. A tooth with a recurring infection under a post and core, a root-canal-treated tooth that has fractured for the second time, a molar with furcation-involved periodontal disease that is progressively losing bone — these teeth are sending a clear signal. The clinical question is not whether they will fail, but when. And every month spent propping up a doomed tooth is a month of bone loss, adjacent tooth damage, and wasted money that could have gone toward a predictable, long-term replacement.
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Dr. Ostovar evaluates failing teeth with unflinching honesty. His prosthodontic training specifically includes prognosis assessment — the systematic evaluation of a tooth's long-term viability based on its remaining structure, root integrity, periodontal support, and position in the arch. When a tooth earns a "hopeless" or "questionable" prognosis, he explains exactly why and presents the replacement options clearly: dental implants, fixed bridges, removable partial dentures, or, for fully edentulous arches, implant-supported dentures or All-on-4 fixed prosthetics. Each option has specific advantages, limitations, and costs — and you deserve to understand all of them before making a decision.
The best outcomes happen when failing teeth are replaced proactively rather than reactively. Extracting a failing tooth with socket preservation while the bone is still intact gives you the widest range of replacement options. Waiting until the tooth fractures, develops a severe infection, or erodes its supporting bone narrows your choices and increases the complexity — and cost — of every remaining option. Dr. Gvozden performs the extractions and bone grafting while Dr. Ostovar designs the replacement prosthetics. Working from the same office with the same digital planning tools, they deliver a coordinated result that a patchwork of referrals simply cannot match.
Serving Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro & Washington County
Aloha Dental Specialty Center is located at 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite A, in Beaverton, Or 97003egon. We serve patients from across the Tualatin Valley and greater Portland metro, including Aloha, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. Our Beaverton office is a 5-minute drive from Aloha, 10 minutes from Hillsboro, and 15 minutes from Tigard via SW 185th Avenue.
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Intel Campuses (Ronler Acres & Jones Farm)
10 to 15 minutes via NW 185th Ave. We accommodate the schedules of tech professionals who need efficient, high-quality specialty care.
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Nike World Headquarters
About 8 minutes via SW Baseline Rd. We frequently see patients from the Nike campus for surgical and implant procedures with sedation options.
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Streets of Tanasbourne & Orenco Station
Easily accessible via US-26 and NW 185th. Local general dentists in these communities regularly refer patients to us for specialty procedures.
Why Local Dentists Refer to Us
We work as a trusted partner to general dentists throughout the Tualatin Valley. When cases require CBCT-guided planning, IV sedation, bone grafting, or other advanced procedures, local providers refer to Dr. Ostovar for his fellowship-trained expertise and predictable results.
We handle the complex surgical phases and coordinate closely with your general dentist for seamless continuity of care from start to finish.
Understanding Your Investment
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide transparent pricing before any treatment begins. The cost of your procedure depends on clinical complexity, materials used, and sedation requirements. We walk you through every line item during your consultation so there are no surprises.
What Affects Cost:
- Clinical Complexity: Bone loss, sinus proximity, nerve involvement, or the need for grafting affects treatment planning and surgical time.
- Materials: We use research-backed implant systems, purified bone graft matrices, and high-strength ceramics from established manufacturers.
- Sedation: Options range from local anesthesia to IV sedation, each with different associated costs. We discuss the best option for your comfort and procedure.
Insurance & Financing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and file claims on your behalf. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment and submits pre-treatment estimates with clinical documentation to maximize coverage.
For out-of-pocket costs, we partner with CareCredit and Cherry for flexible payment plans. We also offer our ADSC Dental Savings Plan for patients without insurance.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Understanding the healing process helps you plan ahead and follow post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.
First 48 Hours
Mild swelling and tenderness are normal. Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site when chewing.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling peaks around day three and then improves. The tissue begins closing over the surgical site. Continue with soft foods and use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse. Most patients return to normal activities during this phase.
Long-Term Healing
Surface tissue heals within two to three weeks. Bone integration and deep healing continue for three to six months. Avoid smoking, follow up as scheduled, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout recovery.
Questions during recovery? Call us at (503) 822-0096. We are available for post-operative concerns.
Evidence-Based Prognosis: When Saving a Tooth No Longer Makes Clinical Sense
The decision to extract versus retain a compromised tooth is one of the most consequential in clinical dentistry. A systematic review in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology established that teeth with furcation Class III involvement, vertical root fractures, and endodontic-periodontic lesions with greater than 50 percent bone loss carry survival rates below 50 percent at 10 years, even with aggressive treatment. By comparison, dental implants replacing single teeth demonstrate 10-year survival rates of 95 to 97 percent across multiple meta-analyses. The concept of "strategic extraction" — proactive removal of teeth with poor long-term prognosis — is now supported by the European Federation of Periodontology and the International Team for Implantology, both of which recommend early replacement to preserve bone volume and simplify prosthetic rehabilitation.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Prognosis assessment and tooth replacement planning are core competencies of prosthodontic training, and Dr. Merat Ostovar applies them to every case. His Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists adds implant-specific expertise to his restorative foundation. Dr. Gvozden's oral surgery background ensures that extractions are performed atraumatically with immediate bone preservation, maximizing future replacement options. Together, they manage the full continuum — from the decision to extract through the delivery of the final implant crown, bridge, or prosthesis.
Your Replacing Failing Teeth Implants Treatment Steps
- Consultation & Exam: Comprehensive replacing failing teeth implants evaluation with CBCT 3D imaging at our Beaverton office.
- Treatment Plan: Board-certified specialist discusses your replacing failing teeth implants options, timeline, and costs. Our procedures maintain a 95%+ success rate, backed by advanced 3D imaging and evidence-based protocols.
- Treatment: Procedure performed with comfort options including sedation if needed.
- Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring and care coordination for optimal healing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Book a consultation with our board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Call (503) 822-0096 Office hours: Monday through Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 2 PM. or request an appointment online.
Related Services at Aloha Dental Specialty Center:
Dental Implants · Oral Surgery · Root Canal · Invisalign · Periodontics · Pediatric · TMJ Treatment · Sedation · Cosmetic · Emergency · Sleep Apnea
A Note from Your Dental Team
In my experience, the patients who get the best results from replacing failing teeth implants are those who come in with realistic expectations and follow their post-treatment instructions carefully. I’d rather spend extra time explaining what to expect than have a patient be surprised later.
“Every patient I see has a different story, a different set of concerns, and a different definition of what ‘success’ looks like. That’s why I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment plans. When you come in for a consultation, I’ll listen first, examine second, and recommend third.
I also won’t recommend a procedure you don’t need. If your tooth can be saved with a filling instead of a crown, I’ll tell you that. If watchful waiting is appropriate, I’ll explain why. My job isn’t to sell treatment — it’s to give you my honest clinical judgment so you can make an informed decision.
If you have questions about whether this treatment is right for you, or if you’ve been told you need this procedure by another dentist and want a second opinion, call us at (503) 822-0096. We’re happy to take the time to explain everything — no rush, no pressure.”
— Dr. Merat Ostovar & Dr. Jovan Gvozden | Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Beaverton, OR
I know many patients feel anxious about dental procedures — you’re not alone in that. What I hear most often after treatment is: “That was so much easier than I expected.” We’re here to make this as comfortable as possible for you.
Typical Healing Timeline:
Days 1-3: Initial healing, mild swelling managed with ice and medication. Days 4-7: Swelling subsides, gradual return to normal diet. Weeks 2-4: Soft tissue heals completely. Months 2-6: Bone remodeling and full integration (for surgical procedures). Individual recovery varies — we provide detailed post-op instructions specific to your procedure.
For additional clinical information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA).
Last reviewed by our dental specialists: March 2026. Clinical information on this page reflects current evidence-based dental practices.
Related Dental Services
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tooth is failing?
Signs include recurring infections or abscesses on the same tooth, a root-canal-treated tooth that has developed new symptoms, increasing mobility, a persistent deep periodontal pocket, a vertical root fracture visible on imaging, or a tooth that has been patched and re-crowned multiple times. Dr. Ostovar uses objective criteria — not guesswork — to assess prognosis.
Should I try to save the tooth or just get an implant?
It depends on the tooth's long-term prognosis. If retreatment can reasonably deliver another 10 to 15 years of service, saving the tooth is usually the right choice. If the prognosis is guarded or hopeless — meaning failure within five years is probable — an implant with a 95-percent-plus survival rate is the more predictable investment.
What are my options for replacing a failing tooth?
A dental implant with a crown is the gold standard for single-tooth replacement. A fixed bridge is an alternative when implant placement is not feasible. A removable partial denture is a lower-cost option for patients who are not surgical candidates. For multiple missing teeth, implant-supported bridges or full-arch prosthetics provide fixed solutions.
What is the advantage of a dental implant over a bridge?
An implant replaces the tooth without altering the adjacent teeth — no drilling on healthy neighbors. It also stimulates the jawbone, preventing the resorption that occurs under bridges and dentures. Implants have higher long-term survival rates than bridges and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
What happens to my bone if I wait too long to replace a tooth?
The jawbone resorbs predictably after tooth loss — 40 to 60 percent of ridge width is lost in the first year. As bone volume decreases, implant placement becomes more difficult or requires bone grafting. In severe cases, the bone loss may preclude implant placement entirely, limiting you to removable prosthetic options.
Can you extract the failing tooth and place an implant the same day?
In many cases, yes. Immediate implant placement at the time of extraction is ideal when bone quality and quantity are sufficient, infection is controlled, and the anatomy is favorable. Dr. Ostovar and Dr. Gvozden evaluate each case on CBCT imaging to determine if same-day placement is appropriate.
How much does it cost to replace a failing tooth with an implant?
A single dental implant with abutment and crown typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 at our office. This includes the surgical placement, the healing period, and the final restoration. Socket preservation grafting, if needed, adds $500 to $900. We provide detailed cost estimates before any treatment and offer CareCredit financing.
What if I have multiple failing teeth?
Multiple failing teeth are best managed with a comprehensive treatment plan rather than one-at-a-time replacements. Dr. Ostovar designs a phased plan that prioritizes extractions and grafting first, followed by implant placement, and finally prosthetic delivery. For patients losing most or all teeth, All-on-4 or implant-supported dentures offer efficient full-arch solutions.
I was told I need all my teeth pulled — is that really necessary?
Not always, and you deserve a second opinion from a specialist. Dr. Ostovar evaluates each tooth individually using objective prognosis criteria. Teeth with reasonable long-term prospects are kept and incorporated into the treatment plan. We only recommend extraction when the evidence clearly shows the tooth cannot serve you well for the foreseeable future.
What are All-on-4 implants?
All-on-4 is a full-arch replacement technique that uses four strategically positioned implants to support a fixed bridge of 10 to 14 teeth. It is designed for patients who are losing or have lost all teeth in one arch. You leave the surgical appointment with a fixed temporary prosthesis — no denture adhesive, no removable plate. The final prosthesis is delivered after healing.
Are dentures still an option, or are implants the only way?
Dentures remain a viable option, particularly for patients who are not surgical candidates or who prefer a non-surgical approach. Modern dentures are significantly better than those of previous generations. That said, implant-supported options — even just two implants to stabilize a lower denture — dramatically improve retention, comfort, and chewing ability compared to conventional dentures.
How long do implant replacements last?
Dental implants themselves have a documented lifespan of 20 to 30-plus years, with many lasting a lifetime. The crown or prosthesis attached to the implant may need replacement after 15 to 20 years due to normal wear. Compared to bridges (average 10 to 15 years) and dentures (5 to 8 years before relining), implants offer the best long-term value.
What is the recovery time for tooth replacement?
Extraction and grafting recovery is typically three to five days of manageable discomfort. Implant placement surgery has a similar recovery profile. The implant integration period (osseointegration) takes three to six months, during which you wear a temporary restoration. The final crown or prosthesis appointment is a non-surgical visit with no recovery needed.
Can I get financing for tooth replacement?
Yes. We offer CareCredit financing with plans ranging from six months interest-free to extended payment terms up to 60 months. For large treatment plans, phasing the work over time also distributes costs across multiple insurance benefit years. Our treatment coordinators help maximize insurance benefits and structure payments that fit your budget.
What makes your practice different for tooth replacement?
Having a prosthodontist and an oral surgeon in the same office means your replacement is planned from the final tooth backward — Dr. Ostovar designs the ideal tooth position first, then Dr. Gvozden places the implant precisely where it needs to be to support that design. This "restorative-driven" approach produces better aesthetics, better function, and fewer complications than the more common approach of placing the implant first and designing the tooth to fit it later.
Teeth Failing and Not Sure What to Do? Call (503) 822-0096 for an Honest Evaluation
Call our Beaverton office or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine | Implant & Specialty Dentistry | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Dental Specialty Center — Serving Aloha, Beaverton, Hillsboro & Greater Portland
Last updated: March 19, 2026