Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth. Dental implants are lasting restorative dental treatments that replace missing teeth at the root and secure tooth crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Dental Implants in Galveston, TX
The entire implant process is performed over the course of a few months. The first part of the process is installing the implant, where a screw is placed into the jaw bone. An incision is made in the gum so the implant can be inserted. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implants are placed, the gums are sutured.
The implant must be allowed for about 3-6 months to heal, and during this time, the jaw bone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time, you can install temporary crowns so that you can eat and speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile.
After the implant has healed, it is time to place an abutment on the implant. The abutment serves as the base for your new tooth. Once this is placed, an impression of the abutment is taken and used to create your permanent restoration. Some offices have an onsite lab to create the crown, but others must send it to an outside lab.
Once the restoration is completed, you can return to the office to attach the restoration permanently. Your smile will look just like it used to, and after a short period of getting used to the implant, it will feel like one of your own teeth.
Mini Implants
Mini dental implants are about half the diameter of a regular dental implant. This offers many benefits and can also be used when regular implants cannot. Mini-implants are preferred if an implant needs to be placed in a narrow space because they are smaller.
A main use for mini implants is to install a full upper or lower denture. A series of mini implants (4-6) are placed along the gum line and serve as the denture’s base. Rather than placing a single implant for a single tooth, an entire lower or upper set of teeth are directly attached to the gum line.
The small size of mini implants often means that no incision needs to be made to place the implant. They can usually be inserted right through the gum into the bone. This eliminates the need for a recovery period, and the restoration can usually be placed immediately or only a short time after.
Mini implants are also less expensive than regular implants. Only your dentist knows if mini implants are right for you, so call for your consultation today.
Dental Implant FAQs
Below, we answer commonly asked questions about dental implant treatment in our office:
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a permanent new root for a missing tooth. It is a titanium screw that is placed into the jaw bone. An abutment and crown is then placed on the implant to provide a permanent tooth that looks just like a natural tooth.
How are dental implants different than dentures?
Dentures are a removable set of teeth or partial set of teeth that need to be removed and cared for in a special manner. They can often feel bulky and are difficult to get used to. Dental implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth that can be cared for just like natural teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants look and feel just like real teeth, they are permanent, you can eat the foods you want without any fear of embarrassment, and they procedure is very successful and fairly inexpensive.
Who can place a dental implant?
Your dentist may be able to perform implants in their own office based on their training. If not, they will recommend you to an implantologist, cosmetic dentist, or another specialist that will perform the procedure.
How much do implants cost?
The price of your dental implants will vary based on the level of experience of your doctor, how many implants you have placed, the amount of insurance coverage, and more. Schedule a consultation with us to determine a price for your implants and a financing plan if necessary.
Do dental implants hurt?
No. A local anesthetic will be given before the procedure so that you do not feel any pain. If you have anxiety or fear you should discuss sedation options with your dentist.
How long do implants last?
When cared for properly, implants should last a lifetime. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to the success of your implant.
Replace Your Missing Teeth With Implants
Are you missing one or more permanent teeth? Call Broadway Dental for implant treatment at 409-235-0789 or request a dental appointment with us online.