Lasting smiles begin here
Dental implants are the most versatile solution for restoring a complete smile, and they can be used to replace a single tooth or several teeth. Missing one or more natural teeth can make it difficult for you to chew food properly, cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile, and can lead to poor oral health. Biologically, missing teeth can also cause your jaw bone to shrink as well as your surrounding teeth to shift.
Whether you’ve had traditional dentures for a while or have been considering implants, you may already know they come with a number of issues like dentures can slip, or can be knocked out of your mouth. But with dental implants, they have been the gold standard for replacing missing teeth for the past several decades. The best part is implants look and function just like your natural teeth.
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There are three elements to a dental implant. The implant, abutment, and the crown. Think of a dental implant as an artificial tooth root made of titanium or ceramic that fuses with the surrounding jaw bone. This fusion is what makes implants feel so natural. A custom-matched dental crown is attached to the implant with a special connector called an abutment. With the implant, abutment, and crown in place, you’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile with confidence!
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement method among patients and dentists alike. Some of their many benefits include:
Adults with missing teeth should get dental implants as soon as possible, assuming their dental health is in good standing. This is because your jaw bone will immediately begin to shrink after a tooth is removed. Eventually, if significant bone loss occurs, you will need more extensive and costly surgeries before an implant can be placed.
For the best outcomes, a bone grafting procedure is performed on the same day the tooth is removed. This is to help maintain enough bone in the area to adequately hold an implant in place and keep it stable. Depending on the condition of the gums, underlying bone, and other surrounding structures, we can either place the implant during the same appointment as the tooth extraction, or we may need to wait a few months for the tissues to heal before implant placement.
The first step to obtaining dental implants is to contact Sloan Creek Dental in Fairview, TX, for a consultation. Dr. Feng will give you a thorough dental exam that includes taking x-rays of your teeth and jawbone using our CBCT. Your 3D x-rays will help Dr. Feng precisely determine what steps she will need to take. For instance, some people may not have enough bone in the jaw to support the implant and will require a bone graft before or during the placement of the implant. Once your dentist has determined your mouth is healthy and there is sufficient bone for placement, you may begin your implant treatment.
Once your dental implant has fully integrated with your jawbone, your custom-made crown will be placed onto the implant abutment. All of our restorations are made of a durable material that will resemble a natural tooth and blend into your smile. Your dental implant and crown will restore the function, look, and feel like your natural tooth.
After the dental implant process, you should continue your regular oral hygiene routine. Your implant is treated like a natural tooth and should be brushed and flossed to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
The dental implant procedure begins with numbing the area where the implant will be inserted. A small incision will be strategically made to place the implant post directly into your jaw. This post is similar to a tooth root as it allows the replacement tooth to be securely fitted and held in place. The post will be left to heal for three to six months, during which a process called osseointegration occurs. Within this healing process, the dental implant will fuse into the jaw bone to serve as a base for an abutment and the implant crown. The goal is to create a healthy, stable foundation to promote a long-lasting and natural-looking final restoration.
We know that you may have many questions during your search for a dental implant specialist, so we’re here to help you at every step of the way. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common dental implant questions we we get from patients.
If you’re interested in dental implants, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. Your dentist will review and assess whether or not you would be an appropriate candidate for dental implants. During your consultation, your dentist will review the condition of your gums, jawbone, and other parts of your mouth. If you have healthy gums and strong bones, it’s likely that you’ll be able to get the treatment done successfully.
It’s a common misconception that dental implant surgery is painful. In fact, the surgical procedure itself is easy to tolerate, and the healing process is what can cause discomfort.
When you come in for your consultation, we will take the time to explain in detail what to expect from the procedure. We will also be sure to answer any questions you may have and give you detailed information on post-operative care.
As with any surgery, you’ll need to take it easy for a few days after the procedure and follow post-op directions. If you’re feeling pain or discomfort during this time, make sure to let your doctor know so they can prescribe medication if necessary.
At Sloan Creek Dental, we offer our services at affordable rates so that more patients can receive the dental care they need. Dental implant cost varies for each patient based on the number of implants, type of insurance details, anesthesia, and if any additional procedures are necessary. During your consultation, we will discuss these items with you and provide an estimate for your procedure.
While other tooth replacement options like bridges and dentures may be less expensive up front, they do not provide long-term oral health benefits like dental implants. For example, dentures must be replaced every few years, and most patients find it embarrassing to remove them during meals and cleaning. Dental implants remain in place permanently and protect your oral health better than other options.
Recovery time for dental implants varies depending on factors like the number of implants and whether grafts are needed. For one or two implants without grafts, recovery may be as short as 1-2 days. However, if multiple implants or grafts are required, recovery may extend to a week or two.
Patients who suffer from tooth loss need a strong and long-lasting option other than dentures. Dental implants might be the right choice for you. Our dental office is conveniently located in Fairview, TX, near Allen, McKinney, Lucas, and Plano. Contact us at (972) 468-1440 today if you have any questions about implant dentistry, would like to discuss your dental treatment plan, or would like to know how dental implants might benefit you and your smile.
“I’ve never experienced a dentist office like this. The staff was super attentive and took great care for my comfort. Dr. Feng was very kind and took her time to explain everything and answer all my questions. I never thought I’d say this, but I had an amazing trip to the dentist. Thanks!”
Just about anything you need under one roof. Your Fairview dentist near Allen and McKinney has your family covered.
