A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a tooth or bridge, serving as a replacement for a missing tooth or teeth, and that look and feel like your own. Dental implants are an ideal option for people with good oral health who have lost or are missing a tooth or teeth. They can:
Replace one or more teeth without affecting the bordering teeth- Support a bridge (replacing multiple missing teeth), eliminating the need for a removable partial denture
- Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable
- Replace all the teeth in an arch, eliminating the need for a removable denture
If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak, and eat again with comfort and confidence, please contact our Houston office for a consultation to see if dental implants are a good option for you. You no longer will need to hide your smile because of the spaces from missing teeth, or need to be self-conscious when speaking or eating with dentures. Dental implants that are placed by a specialist in a patient who is diligent with maintenance and has good oral hygiene can last a lifetime.
A periodontist is the perfect specialist to evaluate you for implants because they have completed three additional years beyond traditional dental school, studying the gum tissue and the underlying bone in the mouth. This is precisely the region where implants are placed, and are the key to success for both long-term function and natural esthetics. Dental implants are a team effort that you, your dentist, and your periodontist will work together to make your dreams come true. A treatment plan is tailored to your condition and your needs, whether you need to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth. Dental implants typically take 2 to 6 months or more to heal before they can support the new teeth. But with the state-of-the-art computer guided procedure utilizing the patient’s CT image (a special 3D radiograph) and implant planning software to plan the implant placement and fabricate the restoration prior to your appointment allows us to replace your missing or to be extracted teeth in one day. With only a few exceptions, patients seeking a quick, permanent solution can be accommodated. Just like your natural teeth, dental implants require regular home care (traditional brushing and flossing) and dental visits. After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth, and gums, to make sure they are healthy.
