Frequently Asked Questions

About All Star Implants

All Star Implants is a specialized implant center dedicated exclusively to providing the highest quality dental implant solutions in Garner, NC. Unlike general dental offices that occasionally place implants, implant dentistry is what we do best. Our doctors, Dr. Hamid Rouhani and Dr. Valerie Hartman, have extensive advanced training in implant placement and restoration. We offer comprehensive implant solutions from single teeth to full-arch replacements, all performed in our state-of-the-art facility with cutting-edge 3D imaging technology.

No, we’re a locally-owned practice built on trust and long-term relationships with our patients. We’re not interested in transactional dentistry – we view each implant case as a unique, long-term opportunity to provide excellent care that results in a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. Our doctors make all treatment decisions based on what’s best for you, not corporate quotas or profit margins.

While dental implants are our specialty and passion, we offer comprehensive services related to implant dentistry and tooth replacement, including:- Single tooth implants- Multiple tooth implants- All-on-4 dental implants- All-on-6 dental implants- Implant-supported dentures (snap-on dentures)- Immediate implants (same-day tooth replacement)- Full-mouth reconstruction- Bone grafting and sinus lifts- Tooth extractions- Traditional dentures- Emergency dental services.

We’re conveniently located at 801 US-70, Suite #102, Garner, NC 27529, and proudly serve patients from Garner, Raleigh, Clayton, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Apex, Knightdale, and throughout the Triangle area.

Scheduling is easy. You can call us at (919) 205-4666, visit our website to book an appointment online 24/7, or stop by our office in person. We offer free or low-cost consultations to discuss your implant options and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root. It fuses with the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures, looking and functioning like natural teeth.

With proper care, dental implants can last 20–25 years or even a lifetime. Usually, only the crown or restoration may need updating over time.

Yes. Dental implants have been safely used for over 40 years, with a 95–98% success rate. Made of biocompatible titanium, they integrate naturally with the jawbone.

Absolutely. Crowns and restorations are custom-made to match your teeth in color, shape, and size, blending seamlessly with your smile.

Costs vary: single-tooth implants typically range from $3,000 to $6,000, All-on-4 around $20,000–$30,000 per arch, and All-on-6 $25,000–$35,000 per arch. Flexible financing is available.

Many plans cover part of the cost, often up to 50% of your annual maximum. We’ll verify your benefits and offer financing or membership discounts if needed.

Safety, Technology & Procedures

We invest in the latest dental technology to ensure optimal results. Our advanced tools include 3D CBCT imaging for precise visualization of bone structure, digital impressions that are more comfortable and accurate than traditional putty, and computer-guided implant surgery for enhanced precision and predictability. We also use digital X-rays, which expose patients to 90% less radiation than traditional X-rays, and intraoral cameras that allow you to see exactly what we see on the screen.

Our 3D CBCT scans provide detailed, three-dimensional images of your jawbone, allowing us to assess exact bone density and quality, identify optimal implant positions, avoid nerves and sinuses, plan implant angulation with precision, and create surgical guides for greater accuracy. This technology helps reduce complications and recovery time. Many patients who were previously told they were not candidates for implants based on traditional X-rays have discovered through our 3D imaging that they actually have excellent implant sites.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable implant surgery can be. Local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain during the procedure, and sedation options—including safe sleep dentistry—are available for anxious patients. Precision surgical techniques minimize tissue trauma, and post-operative pain management helps keep you comfortable during healing. Most patients report minimal discomfort, often less than a standard tooth extraction, and over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient after surgery.

Most patients recover quickly after dental implant surgery. During the first 24 to 48 hours, some swelling and minor discomfort are normal but can be easily managed with medication, and ice packs can help reduce swelling. A soft diet and rest are recommended during this period. Between days three and seven, swelling typically decreases, patients can gradually return to normal activities, and slowly transition back to a regular diet. By weeks two to four, most patients feel completely normal, although implant healing continues beneath the surface. Over the course of three to six months, the implant fully integrates with the bone and is ready for the final restoration.

Signs of successful implant integration include stability with no movement or looseness, absence of pain or discomfort, healthy surrounding gums, proper appearance on X-rays, and the implant feeling like a natural part of your mouth. We carefully monitor your healing during regular follow-up appointments. Dental implants have a success rate of approximately 95–98%, and any issues are typically identified early and addressed promptly.

While rare, occurring in only 2–5% of cases, implant failure can happen due to infection, insufficient bone integration, excessive force or trauma, or habits such as smoking or poor oral hygiene. If an implant fails, we can often replace it once the site has healed, and in many cases, the replacement implant is successful. We stand behind our work and will discuss all available options if any issues arise.

Insurance & Financing

Yes, we are in-network with all major dental insurance providers, including Cigna, Aetna, United Healthcare, MetLife, Delta Dental, and many more. We verify your coverage and help you maximize your benefits. Even if we are out-of-network with your plan, we can still file claims on your behalf and assist you in receiving out-of-network reimbursement.

We work with several financing companies to provide flexible payment plans. Options include Sunbit, which offers fast approval and convenient monthly payments; CareCredit, a healthcare-specific financing solution; and third-party lenders with competitive rates. Many patients choose to finance their implants with manageable monthly payments. You can apply online or in our office, and approval usually takes just a few minutes.

Yes, our All Star Implants membership plans provide benefits such as discounts of 10% or more on implant services, reduced fees for consultations and exams, priority scheduling, and predictable costs. Plans start at $44 per month for adults. Call us to learn more about membership options and how they can make dental implants more affordable.

Yes, dental implants are considered a qualified medical expense and can be paid for using FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) funds. Using these accounts allows you to pay with pre-tax dollars, effectively giving you a discount on your treatment.

Yes, we offer in-house payment plans for certain procedures and also work with third-party lenders to provide flexible financing. Options may include 0% interest for qualified applicants, low monthly payments, and extended terms of up to 60 months or more. Our team will help you find a payment solution that fits your budget and makes your dental care more accessible.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

 All-on-4 replaces a full arch of teeth using just four strategically placed implants. These implants support a fixed, permanent set of teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, they stay in your mouth permanently and are cared for like natural teeth.

Traditional dentures rest on the gums, can slip, and require adhesives and soaking. All-on-4 implants are permanently secured, do not move, feel and function like natural teeth, preserve jawbone, and typically last 20+ years.

Yes. Four implants are placed using 3D imaging in the morning, and temporary teeth are provided by the afternoon. After 3–6 months of healing, your permanent, custom teeth are placed—so you’re never without teeth.

Most people missing all or most teeth in an arch are candidates. This includes denture wearers, those with failing teeth, and even patients with some bone loss. A consultation with 3D imaging confirms suitability.

All-on-4 is designed to work with existing bone by angling the implants strategically, often avoiding bone grafting. If grafting is needed, it can be done in-office.

The process usually takes 6–8 months from consultation to final restoration. You receive temporary, functional teeth on the day of surgery and permanent teeth after 3–6 months of healing.

Once your permanent teeth are in place, you can eat virtually anything, including apples, corn on the cob, steak, crunchy vegetables, and nuts. During the initial healing period with temporary teeth, a softer diet is recommended.

Care is similar to natural teeth: brush twice daily, floss daily using implant-specific tools, use a water flosser, attend dental checkups every six months, and avoid smoking. With proper care, All-on-4 restorations can last 20+ years.

All-on-6 Dental Implants

 All-on-6 uses six implants instead of four to support a full arch of teeth. The extra implants provide enhanced stability, more even bite distribution, and can be better for certain bone conditions. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on your anatomy and needs.

Not necessarily. All-on-6 offers extra stability, which can be useful for patients with sufficient bone or those seeking maximum long-term support. Many patients achieve excellent results with All-on-4, which has a proven track record.

Yes, All-on-6 typically costs $5,000–$10,000 more due to the additional implants. Your doctor will review costs and benefits so you can make an informed decision.

With proper care, All-on-6 can last 20+ years, similar to All-on-4. The extra implants may provide even greater longevity in some cases.

Same-Day Tooth Replacement

Immediate implants are placed on the same day as a tooth extraction. In many cases, a temporary crown can also be attached, so you’re never without a tooth.

They combine extraction and implant placement in one procedure, reducing overall treatment time. Immediate implants help preserve bone, may allow a same-day temporary tooth, require fewer appointments, and often cause less overall discomfort.

Candidates typically have healthy gums, sufficient bone at the extraction site, no active infection, and good overall health. Your dentist will assess suitability during your consultation.

Success is excellent—about 95–98%—comparable to traditional implants. Success depends on bone quality, oral hygiene, overall health, and following post-operative instructions.

The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours, including extraction, site preparation, implant placement, and, if appropriate, a temporary crown. You leave the office with your implant in place the same day.

No—local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain. Many patients find it less uncomfortable than expected, since there’s only one healing period. Sedation options are also available for anxious patients.

Safe Sleep Dentistry with CRNA & Anesthesiologist

Safe sleep dentistry allows you to undergo dental procedures while comfortably sedated by a CRNA or anesthesiologist. You sleep peacefully through treatment with no anxiety or discomfort, making it the safest, most controlled form of dental sedation.

CRNAs and anesthesiologists provide maximum safety and comfort. They continuously monitor your vital signs, manage your airway, adjust sedation levels, and handle emergencies. This allows dentists to focus entirely on your procedure, reduces patient movement, and often enables multiple procedures in one visit with minimal stress.

  • CRNA: Advanced practice nurse with 2–3 years of specialized anesthesia training, licensed to administer all types of anesthesia independently.
  • Anesthesiologist: A medical doctor specializing in anesthesia with residency training, capable of managing complex medical cases.

 Both are equally qualified for safe dental sedation.

Yes. Your provider reviews your medical history, continuously monitors your vital signs, adjusts sedation as needed, manages your airway, and stays with you until fully recovered. Emergency equipment and medications are immediately available.

Ideal for patients with dental anxiety, sensitive gag reflex, complex procedures, time constraints, past trauma, special needs, or certain medical conditions that make standard sedation insufficient.

  • Before: Medical screening, pre-op instructions, and a driver arranged for after.
  • Day of: Arrival, review with CRNA/anesthesiologist, IV sedation, procedure while asleep.
  • After: Monitored recovery, post-op instructions, release to responsible adult.

No. Safe sleep dentistry provides complete amnesia of the procedure, which is especially helpful for anxious patients.

Most feel groggy for a few hours. You’ll rest at home the same day, avoid driving, and resume light activities the next day. Healing at the surgical site continues according to the implant timeline.

Some dental and medical plans may provide partial coverage. We verify benefits before your procedure.

Yes, but the benefits—maximum safety, complete comfort, fewer appointments, and peace of mind—often outweigh the cost for patients.

Snap-On Dentures (Implant-Supported Overdentures)

Snap-on dentures, or implant-supported overdentures, are removable dentures that securely attach to 2–4 dental implants. They provide stability like implants while remaining removable for easy cleaning.

Traditional dentures rest on gums, can slip, need adhesives, and may cause discomfort or bone loss. Snap-on dentures attach to implants, stay stable while eating and speaking, are more comfortable, help preserve bone, and look and function better.

  • Lower arch: 2–4 implants (2 minimum, 4 for max stability)
  • Upper arch: 4–6 implants
    The number depends on your bone, budget, and desired stability.

They serve different needs. Snap-on dentures are removable, easier to clean, and more affordable. All-on-4 is permanent, fixed, and offers maximum stability and chewing power. The best option depends on your lifestyle and goals.

  1. Unsnap the denture from the implants.
  2. Brush the denture with cleaner.
  3. Brush implants and gums.
  4. Rinse and snap the denture back in place.
  5. Remove at night for cleaning and gum rest; brush implants daily like natural teeth.

Implants last 20+ years with proper care. The denture typically needs replacement every 5–10 years, but attachments can be replaced to extend denture life.

  • Lower arch: $8,000–$15,000
  • Upper arch: $12,000–$20,000
    Includes implants, abutments, and a custom denture. Financing options are available.

Single Tooth Implants

A single tooth implant is recommended if you:

  • Lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or infection
  • Have a tooth that cannot be saved and needs extraction.
  • Have a congenitally missing tooth.
  • Want the best long-term replacement option.n

Single implants:

  • Preserve adjacent teeth (bridges require grinding them down)
  • Preserve the jawbone where the tooth is missing
    Are easier to clean
  • Last 20+ years (bridges last 10–15)
  • Look and feel like a natural tooth.

Bridges:

  • Less expensive initially
  • No surgery required
  • Faster treatment since no healing is needed

How long does treatment take?

  • Consultation: 1 hour
  • Implant placement: 1–2 hours
  • Healing/fusion: 3–6 months

Crown placement: 2 weeks after impressions
Total: 4–7 months (add 4–6 months if bone grafting is needed)

Yes! Temporary crowns or removable partial dentures are provided so you never go without a tooth.

$3,000–$6,000 (includes implant, abutment, crown, placement, and follow-up). Exact cost is provided during consultation.

Full-Mouth Reconstruction

Full-mouth reconstruction restores all or nearly all of your teeth using dental implants and other restorative procedures. It is a comprehensive treatment plan designed to rehabilitate your mouth when most or all teeth are damaged, decayed, or missing.

Full-mouth reconstruction is recommended for patients who have most or all teeth damaged beyond repair, suffer from severe decay affecting multiple teeth, have experienced significant trauma to the mouth, have long-term dental neglect, suffer from severe TMJ issues or bite problems, or can no longer use their current dentures effectively.

The treatment plan may include dental implants such as single implants or All-on-4/All-on-6, tooth extractions, bone grafting or sinus lifts, crowns and bridges, gum treatments, and bite adjustment or TMJ therapy. Each plan is personalized to restore function, health, and aesthetics.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Simple cases typically take six to nine months, more complex cases can take twelve to eighteen months, and cases requiring extensive bone grafting may take eighteen to twenty-four months. Many procedures can be performed under safe sleep dentistry, which minimizes the number of appointments and ensures a more comfortable experience.

Costs vary based on individual needs. All-on-4 treatment for both arches generally ranges from $40,000 to $60,000. All-on-6 for both arches ranges from $50,000 to $70,000, and a combination of individual implants and restorations may range from $30,000 to $80,000. Flexible financing options and phased treatment plans are available to make this investment more manageable.

Bone Grafting & Sinus Lifts

Bone grafting rebuilds or adds bone where it’s insufficient for implants. Graft material is placed, and over months, your body replaces it with natural bone, creating a stable foundation for implants.

It’s needed if teeth have been missing long time, after gum disease, before extractions without socket preservation, naturally thin bone, or long-term denture use, causing bone loss.

A sinus lift adds bone in the upper back jaw between the jaw and sinus, creating enough height for implants and preventing sinus penetration.

Performed under anesthesia or sedation, pain during the procedure is minimal. Post-op discomfort is usually mild and manageable with medication.

Sometimes. Techniques like All-on-4, zygomatic implants, or short implants can work with less bone. 3D imaging helps determine the best option.

Tooth Extractions

Extraction may be needed if a tooth is too damaged, infected, fractured below the gum, affected by advanced gum disease, or if saving it is not cost-effective or could compromise treatment. Drs. Rouhani and Hartman discuss all options before recommending extraction.

Yes! Immediate implants can be placed right after extraction, reducing surgeries, preserving bone, and keeping you tooth-free. Suitability depends on bone quality and infection status.

The service includes exam and X-rays, local anesthesia, gentle extraction, socket preservation if needed, post-op instructions, medications, and follow-up care. Multiple extractions can be done under safe sleep dentistry for comfort.

Soft tissue usually heals in 1–2 weeks. Bone healing takes 3–6 months. Implant placement is generally ready 3–6 months after extraction if not immediate.

Emergency Services

Yes! Call (919) 205-4666 for severe tooth pain, abscesses, knocked-out or broken teeth, facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or jaw/teeth trauma. We aim to see emergencies the same day.

Severe/persistent toothaches, broken/chipped teeth, knocked-out or loose teeth, lost fillings/crowns, abscesses, swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or jaw injuries. Unsure? Call us for guidance.

Handle by the crown only, rinse gently, and avoid scrubbing. Try reinserting it if possible, or keep it in milk/saliva. Seek care immediately—treatment within 30–60 minutes gives the best chance to save the tooth.

Yes, but calling ahead helps us prepare and reduce wait time. Severe emergencies are prioritized.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Hamid Rouhani brings extensive experience in implant dentistry. He earned his DDS from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2006 and completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the VA in Fayetteville, NC. With nearly 20 years of implant experience and hundreds of successful cases, Dr. Rouhani continues to advance his skills through regular courses and seminars. He is trained in advanced surgical techniques, including bone grafting, sinus lifts, and full-arch rehabilitation. His passion for implant dentistry, combined with a caring approach, ensures that every patient receives expert care in a comfortable environment.

Dr. Valerie Hartman brings exceptional skill and dedication to implant dentistry. She earned her BS in Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology with honors from North Carolina State University and her DDS from the UNC Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry. She further advanced her training through an Advanced General Dentistry Residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and has extensive experience in implant placement and restoration. Known for her gentle and precise technique, Dr. Hartman provides comfortable, thorough care while taking the time to understand each patient’s goals and concerns. Her expertise and compassionate approach make her an ideal partner in your implant journey.

Our doctors have collectively placed thousands of dental implants over their nearly 20 combined years of experience. This extensive experience means:- We’ve seen and successfully treated a wide variety of cases- We can anticipate and prevent potential complications- We’ve refined our techniques for optimal results- You benefit from our accumulated knowledge and skill.

Both Dr. Rouhani and Dr. Hartman are committed to staying at the forefront of implant dentistry. They regularly attend conferences and seminars on implant techniques, advanced surgical procedures, 3D imaging, digital dentistry, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and full-arch rehabilitation. This ongoing education ensures that every patient receives the most advanced, evidence-based care available.

Patient Testimonials & Results

Dr. Hamid Rouhani earned his DDS from UNC Chapel Hill in 2006 and completed a one-year Advanced General Dentistry residency at the VA in Fayetteville, NC. With nearly 20 years of implant experience, he’s trained in advanced surgical techniques, including bone grafting, sinus lifts, and full-arch rehabilitation, and continually updates his skills through courses and seminars.

Dr. Valerie Hartman holds a BS in Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology from NC State and a DDS from UNC Chapel Hill. She completed an Advanced General Dentistry Residency in San Antonio, TX, and has extensive experience in implant placement and restoration. Known for her gentle, precise technique, she prioritizes patient comfort and personalized care.

Together, Drs. Rouhani and Hartman have placed thousands of dental implants, giving them the experience to handle a wide variety of cases, prevent complications, and achieve optimal results.

Both doctors regularly attend seminars and conferences on implant techniques, 3D imaging, digital dentistry, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and full-arch rehabilitation to ensure patients receive advanced, evidence-based care.

Additional Questions

While we are located in Garner, we proudly serve patients from throughout the Triangle, including Raleigh, Clayton, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Apex, Knightdale, and surrounding areas. Many patients choose to drive 30–45 minutes to receive our specialized implant care—and we believe it’s well worth the trip!

We offer affordable initial consultations, typically $99 or less, depending on complexity. Your consultation includes a comprehensive exam, a 3D CBCT scan, a discussion of your goals and concerns, a personalized treatment plan, and a transparent cost breakdown. There is no pressure—just education and options. In many cases, the consultation fee is applied toward your treatment if you decide to proceed.

Getting started is easy. Simply call us at (919) 205-4666 to schedule a convenient consultation. During your visit, you’ll meet our team, receive a 3D evaluation, and review your personalized treatment plan. We’ll explain all your options and answer any questions so you can make an informed decision. There is no obligation—we want you to feel completely confident in your choice.

Many patients feel nervous about dental procedures, and that’s completely normal. We help by offering safe sleep dentistry, allowing you to sleep through the entire procedure under the care of a CRNA or anesthesiologist. Our team provides clear communication, explaining every step so you know what to expect. With thousands of anxious patients successfully treated and a 95–98% success rate, our caring team has proven results. You can also hear from other patients who were nervous but had excellent experiences. Don’t let fear prevent you from the smile you deserve—we strive to make every visit comfortable and stress-free.