At Texas Dental in Plano, TX, our skilled dentists are helping patients regain their smiles by replacing missing teeth with high-quality dental implants. Implants make it easy for patients to eat whatever they want without having to stress about loose teeth or embarrassing situations. Dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth. We also offer other restorative treatments for missing and lost teeth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant has three main parts: the post, the abutment, and the restoration. All these parts work together to replace your tooth or teeth.
Implant Post
The dentist places this small titanium post in the jaw bone below the gums. The post will replace your lost tooth root and holds the artificial tooth in place. A dental implant is as strong as your natural teeth. It will help you chew like normal and preventing nearby teeth from moving. The biocompatible titanium bonds well with the bone and is unlikely for your body to reject it.
Abutment
The abutment connects the restoration, or artificial tooth, to the implant post. It can consist of either metal or ceramic. Metal abutments made of strong materials like titanium are tough and can withstand the pressure from chewing. Ceramic abutments blend in with your real teeth to look as real as possible.
Prosthetic Tooth
For a single missing tooth, the dentist will top the implant with a crown that looks and works like a natural tooth. If you’re missing more than one tooth, a bridge may be a good option. A bridge has one or more artificial teeth that crowns hold in place on the neighboring teeth or implants. Dentures supported by several implants is a great solution for those missing many teeth.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Placing a dental implant usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes for one, and 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. The exact time depends on your specific case. Our oral surgeon uses careful techniques to make sure everything goes well.
Before the procedure, we may give you antibiotics, IV sedation, or nitrous oxide to help you feel more comfortable. We will discuss your sedation options during your consultation.
The process begins with local anesthesia to numb the area. Once you are comfortable, the surgeon makes a small cut in the gums to expose the bone. Using special tools, the dentist will create space for the titanium post and carefully inserts it. Sometimes, the top of the post will be visible above the gums. Other times, the gum tissue will cover it while it heals.
When Are Dental Implants Placed?
Most implants are placed a few months after a tooth is removed. In some cases, we can place the implant right after extraction to lower the number of appointments. However, immediate placement might not be the best if there’s an infection or another issue with the bone.
If your tooth has been missing for a while, the bone in that area may shrink since it no longer has a tooth root to keep it healthy. In fact, you can lose up to one-third of the bone’s thickness within the first year after tooth loss. If this happens, we may suggest a bone graft to ensure the implant gets enough support.
How Many Dental Implants Will You Need?
The number of implants you will need depends on how many teeth are missing and where they were. If only one tooth is missing, one implant will be enough. For several missing teeth, the number of implants will vary. In some cases, a few implants can support a bridge or full dentures.
You might need a larger implant to provide enough support for larger teeth in the back of the mouth. These teeth often have more roots.
If you’re missing teeth and want to learn more about dental implants, we’re here to help. At Texas Dental, we offer expert implant care. Contact us today at 972-636-4522 to schedule an appointment.
Healing After Dental Implant Surgery
Once your dental implant surgery is done, the healing process begins. The time it takes to heal can vary from person to person. It depends on how much bone you have and its condition. In some cases, the dentist can place the restoration on the implant right after surgery. Your dentist will let you know what’s best based on your case.
After the first healing phase, you’ll come in for a follow-up visit. During this time, the dentist will place an abutment (support post) or a healing cap on the implant. This step helps the gum tissue heal around the implant and keeps the area open for the next part of the procedure.
Sometimes, the dentist takes impressions when placing the implant. This allows the final crown to be ready once the implant has fully healed. How long it takes for your mouth to heal depends on different things, like how your body reacts to the implant.
You’ll have a few follow-up visits so the dentist can check your healing progress. These visits help determine when you’ll be ready for the final restoration.
In some cases, we might suggest a soft tissue graft. This procedure involves moving a small amount of gum tissue from another part of your mouth to the area around the implant. It helps strengthen the gums and makes it easier to clean the area. The procedure is usually quick and doesn’t cause much discomfort.
Once the area fully heals, the dentist will complete the restoration by fitting the final restoration onto the implant.
Dental Implants FAQs
Learn more about our dental implant services in Plano, TX, with answers to these common questions.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Dental Implant?
The process can take several months depending on your case. For most patients, it takes up to 18 months from beginning to end. If you need a bone graft before getting the implant, it can add time to your treatment.
Will I Need A Bone Graft?
If you’ve been missing a tooth for more than a month, you may need a bone graft. This procedure strengthens the jawbone where the implant will go. During your initial visit, the dentist will check your bone and decide if grafting is necessary. Bone grafting is common and safe, with more than half of implant patients needing it.
Will I Miss Work After Getting A Dental Implant?
Most patients take a day or two off from their usual activities to recover. This short rest period helps your body heal after surgery. We recommend taking it easy right after the procedure to promote a quick and smooth recovery. Discuss with your dentist or oral surgeon about the expected recovery time and any potential time off work that you may need.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
No, the dentist will numb the area during the surgery, so you won’t feel pain. Some mild discomfort is normal after surgery, but you can manage it with over-the-counter pain relief. You won’t need prescription drugs, medications, or other supplements for dental implants.
How Long Do Implants Last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with the right care. The titanium post is permanent, but you might need to replace the crown, bridge, or denture after a while. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits will keep your implants in good condition.
How Do I Take Care Of My Dental Implants?
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and keep your gums healthy. Be sure to get regular cleanings and checkups so your dentist can monitor the health of your implants and remove any plaque buildup.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
How much dental implants will cost you will depend on many things. You will need to consider the number of implants, the type of restoration, sedation, and any pretreatments like bone grafting. When you visit the implant specialist for a consultation, they’ll explain all the costs involved and help you understand your insurance options. Their goal is to make sure you get the care you need at a price you can afford.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
If you’re ready to replace missing teeth, dental implants could be the solution for you. Call us at Texas Dental in Plano, TX, at 972-636-4522 or schedule an appointment online. Let us help you bring back your lost teeth!