Dental Implants Houston, TX
Dental Implants in Houston provided by Dr. Frank Dunlap at Frank Dunlap, DDS
If you want to live in peace with your teeth, being able to smile, laugh, talk and eat easily, dental implants are one of the best dental techniques to put your mind at ease.
At Frank Dunlap, DDS, we have you covered when it comes to the process of achieving a healthy smile with our Houston dental implants!
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Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants are responsible for protecting teeth as well as fulfilling your aesthetic needs. There are a variety of offerings when it comes to dental implants, like All on 4 dental implants or single tooth dental implants.
These oral devices can feel like your own teeth because they are specially structured to integrate with the bone, becoming permanent in the process.
Once they are fixed in place, dental implants do not have the discomfort of removable dentures. The latter, especially sliding ones, can make basic tasks like chewing difficult, but since implants are permanent, they make the process easier and more natural.
Dental implants ensure the return of your smile while improving overall oral health. The implants are also quite long-lasting, and with good care, they can be used for decades.
With dentures that do not fit inside the mouth properly, at least one tooth or more can slip, causing a slurred speech. The permanence of dental implants lets you talk without having to worry about unusual lip slips.
The Steps Involved in Placing Dental Implants
Our professionals take your oral processes very seriously. The procedure of placing dental implants follows a customized treatment regimen that addresses your specific needs and is prepared by experts in restorative surgery.
The first step is to install a small titanium post into the bone socket of the tooth that is missing. With time, as the jawbone goes back to its original form, it grows around the metal post and anchors it securely in the jaw.
Dental implants take time to heal - a maximum of six to twelve weeks. With our treatment options and team approach, we will provide the best-coordinated care and peace of mind on the option that suits you best.
Holding Onto the New Tooth
Once the implantation is done on the jawbone, an abutment, commonly known as a connector post, is attached to hold the tooth securely together.
In order to make new teeth, our team first takes impressions and makes a prototype model of your teeth as well as their biting positions to evaluate their type, arrangement, and other technical details. The replacement tooth is called the crown, which eventually gets attached to the abutment.
A crown is not always recommended for a patient's mouth. Some people might have attachments fixed on the implant to support a removable denture.
Our professionals will also make sure that the dental replacement looks close to the same as your natural teeth, and for that, they will match the color of your replacement tooth to your real teeth. The implant is secured within the jawbone and therefore the replacement feels just like your own teeth.
FAQs
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth or bridges. They provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits, including improved appearance, speech, and comfort. They are durable, provide better oral health by preserving the jawbone, and do not require altering nearby teeth like bridges.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
A good candidate for dental implants is someone with healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. Candidates should also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
What is the dental implant procedure like?
The dental implant procedure involves several steps: evaluation and planning, implant placement, osseointegration (healing period for the implant to fuse with the jawbone), and finally, the placement of the abutment and crown.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last many years, often a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for the longevity of dental implants.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are a safe and well-established treatment option for tooth replacement. They have a high success rate when performed by experienced dental professionals and when patients follow post-operative care instructions.
Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Dental insurance coverage for implants varies by plan. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants involves regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. It's also important to have regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure the health and longevity of the implants.
Can dental implants fail?
While dental implants have a high success rate, they can fail due to factors like poor oral hygiene, smoking, or insufficient bone support. Regular dental visits and proper care can help minimize the risk of implant failure.
Schedule a Houston Implant Appointment Today!
You can visit our experts at Frank Dunlap, DDS to receive detailed guidelines on how to look after your implants just like your natural teeth. The processes include regular brushing and flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.