Tooth loss can be disturbing, especially from the front of your mouth. This can affect your appearance and your social life. You might become shy when talking to people and may not even want to smile publicly. A dental implant is an artificial root that sits in the jawbone, creating a permanent and robust tooth replacement.
Dental implants are one of the most popular restorative dentistry treatments we offer in our San Antonio dental office. The difference between this and other tooth restorations is that dental implants permanently replace the tooth root. Visit Advanced Dental Associates for professional dental implant procedures.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
In general, most patients are candidates for dental implants! Although there may be some preparatory work that needs to take place before surgery. We require that patients have healthy tissue and that there is no disease or infection present. We also need patients to be able to heal appropriately.
Conditions that can limit healing include:
- Smoking
- Taking certain medications
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Currently undergoing cancer treatment
These conditions do not exclude you as a candidate, but may require some steps before surgery. The best way to discover if you aqualify is to visit us for a full dental exam.
Getting Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX
The dental implant process involves several steps to ensure a secure and successful result.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The first step in getting dental implants is a consultation with your dentist. During this visit, the dentist examines your mouth, takes X-rays, and may use 3D imaging to assess your jawbone and plan the procedure. They will check if you have enough healthy bone to support an implant and discuss your overall health. If your jawbone is too thin or weak, a bone graft may be necessary before placing the implant.
This consultation is also a chance to discuss your goals, treatment options, and expected outcomes. The dentist will explain the process and answer any questions to ensure you feel comfortable moving forward.
Step 2: Tooth Extraction (If Needed)
If the damaged or missing tooth is still in place, the dentist must extract it. This simple procedure can often be done during the same appointment as the implant placement. Your dentist will ensure the area is numb and you are comfortable throughout the extraction process.
Step 3: Bone Grafting (If Necessary)
If your jawbone needs reinforcement, the dentist may recommend a bone graft. This step involves adding bone material to your jaw to create a strong foundation for the implant. The graft can take several months to heal and integrate with your natural bone. Not all patients need a bone graft; it depends on the strength and density of your jawbone.
Step 4: Implant Placement
Once your jaw is ready, the dentist or oral surgeon places the dental implant. The implant is a small titanium post surgically inserted into your jawbone. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, although sedation may be available if you feel anxious.
After placement, the implant integrates with your jawbone in osseointegration. This step is crucial because it creates a strong, stable base for the artificial tooth. Osseointegration usually takes 3-6 months to complete.
Step 5: Abutment Placement
After the implant fuses with your jawbone, the dentist attaches a small connector piece called an abutment. The abutment sticks out slightly above the gum line and serves as the attachment point for the artificial tooth.
Step 6: Adding the Crown
The final step is placing the dental crown, which looks like a natural tooth. The crown is custom-made to match your other teeth’s size, shape, and color. The dentist secures the crown to the abutment, completing your dental implant.
Multiple Tooth Implants
If many missing teeth diminish your smile’s aesthetic appeal, consider getting multiple tooth implants. Implant-supported dental prosthetics offer a permanent and durable solution to restore bite and jaw function.
The multiple-tooth implant procedure follows the same timeline as a single-tooth implant procedure. The steps are broadly the same, with only a few differences. To learn about these dental prosthetics, visit Multiple teeth implants.
Is a Bone Graft Always Necessary?
Bone grafting is not always necessary for dental implants. If you get your teeth replaced soon after tooth loss and your jawbone is still fairly strong, this additional procedure may not be necessary. We will suggest bone grafting for patients who have suffered bone loss. Your jawbone will need the necessary strength to support the titanium implant posts.
However, a permanent implant denture using the All-on-4 Treatment Concept does not require a bone graft. Even if you have been wearing dentures for many years. This is because this system uses longer implants that reach the thicker bone. The oral surgeon places them at an angle to hold onto even more bone material.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a top choice for replacing missing teeth because they offer unmatched durability, functionality, and a natural look. Unlike other options, such as dentures or bridges, implants are designed to work like real teeth. They provide lasting benefits that improve oral health, boost confidence, and enhance quality of life.
Strong and Long-Lasting Solution
Dental implants are built to last. Made from biocompatible materials like titanium, they fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for the artificial tooth or crown that goes on top. Unlike dentures that may need frequent adjustments or replacements, implants can last a lifetime with proper care. This durability makes them a worthwhile investment in your dental health.
Natural Look and Feel
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is how closely they mimic natural teeth. The crown attached to the implant is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth, ensuring your smile looks natural and seamless. Implants also feel like real teeth, so you can chew, speak, and smile with confidence without worrying about them shifting or feeling out of place.
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants promote better oral health compared to other tooth replacement options. When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw can shrink over time because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. Implants prevent this bone loss by acting like natural tooth roots, keeping the jawbone healthy and strong.
Additionally, implants don’t rely on surrounding teeth for support. Traditional dental bridges require grinding down neighboring teeth to anchor the bridge, which can weaken those teeth over time. Implants stand alone, preserving the health of your remaining natural teeth.
Comfort and Convenience
Implants are permanently fixed in your mouth, so you don’t have to worry about removing them for cleaning, as you would with dentures. You care for implants like natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are all that’s needed. Unlike dentures, which can slip out of place or cause sore spots, implants stay securely in position, providing unparalleled comfort.
Improved Confidence and Quality of Life
Missing teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile. Dental implants restore confidence by giving you a full, natural-looking set of teeth. They also eliminate the worry of dentures slipping or affecting your speech. With implants, you can enjoy eating your favorite foods, smiling in photos, and speaking clearly without hesitation.
Cost-Effective Over Time
While dental implants may have a higher upfront cost than other options, their durability and low maintenance requirements make them cost-effective in the long run. Dentures and bridges often need repairs or replacements over time, adding to their overall expense. Implants, on the other hand, can last for decades, saving money in the long term.
Visit Advanced Dental Associates to learn if you are a candidate for dental implants today. Request an appointment online or call us at 210-361-6847 to see If dental implants can benefit you.