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Dental Implants

Perhaps you were born with a gap? Perhaps you were the winner of the trophy, but lost your front teeth during the football tournament? Perhaps you’d like to give up on removable dentures and opt for something more permanent or recently had an extraction? Whatever it is, Dental Implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures, with a natural feeling.

dental-implant

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural-looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile! Implants also provide excellent support and stability for dental appliances known as implant-supported dentures.

The Benefits Of Dental Implants

Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years. On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear, but the pros certainly outnumber the cons!

Reasons for dental implants:

  • Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
  • Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
  • Restore a patient’s confident smile.
  • Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
  • Restore or enhance facial tissues.
  • Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

How Do Implants Work?

There are three parts to dental implants: the dental screw, the abutment, and the crown. In the area where your tooth was removed, the screw is surgically bonded to your jawbone. This procedure is performed by our team of specialists.

After the site is fully healed, our dental team will perform another surgery to attach the abutment. The final stage of the procedure is when the dental crown is attached to the abutment. It then looks and acts exactly like natural teeth. For more on the dental implant procedure, please continue reading below or contact our dental office.

Dental Implant Procedure

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants, the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.

Dental Implants vs Dentures

Here are some things to keep in mind if you have lost your teeth and are trying to decide whether to get dentures or implants.

  • Over time, dentures can warp and crack. Implants are strong and durable, and they can be fixed just like natural teeth.
  • To clean and brush your dentures, you will need to take out the dentures. You can brush and floss dental implants like natural teeth. They require little maintenance beyond your regular routine of oral hygiene.
  • Dentures can shift over time as you eat and speak. Implants for dental treatment are stable and maintain their form.

How Long Do Implants Last?

Your dental implant will last many decades if you take good care of it. However, even implants can last for decades. All teeth, including those that are implanted, will eventually need to be replaced or restored. Because we chew on them, molar implants are more likely to be replaced than those at the front.

Dental implants need to be replaced between 10 and 20 years depending on how well you take care of your teeth and how often you visit the dentist. Your dentist will detect potential problems early and correct them before they cause severe damage.

Dental Implants in North Richland Hills, TX

We offer implant solutions that will suit both your budget and your needs to restore your smile! If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.