Surgically Implanted Tooth Replacement

After losing one or more teeth, finding the right prosthesis to replace them is vital to preserving the long-term health and integrity of your smile (not to mention, its appearance). For many patients, the most beneficial option is to replace their lost teeth with dental implants – biocompatible posts that are designed to replicate the form and function of healthy, natural teeth roots. By replacing the roots of your lost teeth, dental implants can enhance the comfort and stability of your dental prosthesis while also helping to preserve the strength and integrity of your smile.

The biocompatibility of dental implants

Dental implants are typically crafted from biocompatible titanium, which makes it possible for your oral structures to bond with them. After a dental implant is placed, the bone in your dental ridge will fuse to the post as it heals, making it as permanent as a healthy tooth root. With one or more dental implant posts, your custom-made dental prosthesis will more closely replicate the full structures of your healthy, natural teeth.

The difference between implants and bridges/dentures

Traditionally, replacing one or more lost teeth has been the job of conventional bridges and partial/full dentures, which are designed to replace the visible, functional parts of your teeth (known as the crowns). The replacement teeth that make up the restorations are supported in a variety of ways. Dental bridges rely on supportive crowns and abutment teeth; partial dentures rest on custom-made bases and hidden clasps; full dentures stay in place due to the natural curve of your dental ridge. Dental implants differ in that they’re designed to replace the lost roots of your teeth, making it possible to support your bridge or denture with optimal comfort and stability and without the need for additional supportive structures.

The advantages of dental implants

 

Because it mimics the functions of your lost tooth root, a dental implant provides several important benefits for your immediate and long-term oral health. For example, not only do implants support your replacement teeth in a more lifelike manner, but also help keep your smile stay strong and healthy by stimulating it every time you bite and chew. Other important benefits of dental implants over more traditional restorations include:

  • Greater comfort, with more lifelike support
  • Improved stability as you bite, chew, speak, and smile
  • No need for adhesives, clasps, or abutment teeth
  • Restored stimulation to preserve your smile’s strength and integrity
  • Reduced risks of further tooth loss
  • And more

Qualifying for dental implant surgery

Dental implants are a good option for most people who’ve lost one or more teeth, regardless of their age. However, before recommending implant placement, we’ll perform a comprehensive examination using digital imaging equipment, including CT scanning and 3D digital modeling, to ensure that your oral structures are healthy enough for the procedure. You may also require additional treatment if you exhibit signs of periodontal disease, or other concerns that might impact the success of your dental implants.

Placing your dental implant posts

Placing your dental implants is a surgical process that involves carefully and strategically implanting an appropriate number of posts to support your dental crown, bridge, or denture. Once the most appropriate position and angle of each implant post is determined, a surgical guide will allow us to complete your implant placement with optimal precision. After making a small incision in your gum tissues and creating a space for the implant post within your dental ridge, we’ll situate the post according to the surgical guide. In some cases, we may recommend placing a temporary restoration over your dental implant posts during the healing process, until your implant posts are ready to receive your permanent restoration.

Caring for dental implants after surgery

Following your dental implant surgery, we’ll provide you with comprehensive post-op instructions that you should follow closely to optimize the healing process. In addition to these instructions, you can properly care for your implants and restoration by practicing good dental hygiene every day. To keep your restoration clean and avoid scratching it, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and less abrasive toothpaste (be sure both have the ADA Seal of Approval on their packages). Also, schedule and attend routine checkup and cleaning appointments as frequently as your dentist recommends. In addition to maintaining your dental implants and restoration, regular preventive visits will help you avoid or detect potential problems that could affect them. These may include the development of gum disease, tooth decay in a nearby tooth, or a tendency to grind your teeth (bruxism).

Rebuild your smile with dental implants

Securing your dental prostheses to one or more dental implant posts helps create a more lifelike and comprehensive solution for fully restoring your smile. To schedule your consultation, call the Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery in Midlothian, TX, today at 469-649-8259. We also serve patients who live in Dallas, Mansfield, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Desoto, Red Oak, Waxahachie, Ft. Worth, and all surrounding communities.