Dental implants are small metal posts that support your permanent crown, bridge, or denture. At the Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we surgically implant these posts in your jaw to mimic the root structure of teeth. Once in place, they act like tooth roots to support your prosthetic teeth. They also stimulate the jawbone and prevent loss by maintaining stimulation when you chew and speak. They can also support custom dentures to give you more confidence when eating and talking.
During dental implant surgery, an implant is inserted into the jawbone to replace your missing root. There are usually several months of healing before your final restoration is placed. During this time, the surrounding bone fuses with the implants through a process called osseointegration. This process creates a durable foundation for your new smile and ensures long-term success.
Once the implant has been completely fused with your jawbone, we will attach the new restoration to the abutment. Your new restoration will look natural, so no one can tell you to have dental implants!
What Are the Requirements for Dental Implants?
Good Oral Health
This is the first step. Our dentist must ensure your gum tissues are healthy enough to support an implant. If not, gum disease must be treated first to ensure a successful procedure.
Sufficient Bone Density in the Jaw
A dental Implant will fail if there is insufficient bone to hold it properly. However, as we age, we lose bone density in our jaws. For this reason, older patients are at higher risk of implant complications. Children are also at risk of having issues with their growing bones.
A Commitment to Good Overall Health
Because the implant is placed in the jawbone, there is a risk of failing if the patient has uncontrolled diabetes or an autoimmune disease. Patients should discuss their health issues with their dentists before considering this treatment.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
- They are designed to fuse with your jawbone, just like your natural teeth, so you never have to worry about them slipping out of place or becoming loose when eating certain foods.
- Because they are artificial and made from durable materials, you do not have to worry about cavities.
- Implants look like your natural teeth, so there is no reason to feel embarrassed about smiling or laughing around others.
- Dental implants are more comfortable than dentures because they are permanently fused into your jaw and do not require messy adhesives or pastes.
Dental implants are an excellent choice to restore your smile and bite. To know more about the benefits of dental implants, visit the Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the Woodlands at 1733 Woodstead Ct Suite 204, Woodlands, TX 77380, or call (281) 367-5256.
