Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made from titanium, that is surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone. After the implant has been integrated into the jawbone, a replacement to the root. In most cases, the tooth replacement is either a crown, bridge, or denture. 

At Smiles of Midtown, we recommend implants as an excellent solution to tooth loss because they look and feel natural and offer improved eating and speaking abilities compared to alternative prosthetics like traditional dentures. They can also help preserve facial structure and prevent bone loss in the jaw. 

The Dental Implant Procedure

Before surgery, the dentist will take X-rays of the mouth to assess the bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. Next, a treatment plan will be designed to map out where the teeth will go and the treatment details will be discussed with the patient. Some patients may require additional procedures before implant placement, such as bone grafting to strengthen the jawbone.

Typically, the placement of dental implants involves two stages: the placement of the dental implant post and the post’s attachment with the abutment. Our dentist will first create a small hole in your gum line and insert the titanium implant post. Over several months, the jaw bone will grow around this post in an osseointegration process. 

Once this process is complete, the patient will undergo a follow-up appointment with the dentist, who will affix the abutment to the post. The abutment is a custom-crafted connector that will secure the crown to the post. At this point, the implant process is finished and the patient can receive their custom-made crown. 

The entire procedure can take anywhere from three to eight months in a healthy mouth. However, this timeline can vary based on your case.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants replace missing teeth and restore your smile to its normal function and beauty. Whether you have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants can restore your mouth’s appearance and oral function. Dental implants can also protect your oral health by preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting into the space left by the missing tooth. This can cause misalignment, leading to bite problems and aesthetic concerns such as wrinkles around the lips and mouth.

Since implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, they allow you to speak and eat comfortably and confidently. They’re also an excellent solution if you’re tired of uncomfortable dentures that slip out of place or make chewing difficult. Your dental implant can last the rest of your life with proper care!

Dental implants can be a great way to restore your smile. For more about dental implants, visit Smiles of Midtown at 3600 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77004, or call (713) 523-6848.