What to Consider Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants continue to be a popular and highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring a functional, comfortable, complete smile once again. While implant dentistry is more widely used today than ever before and is considered by some to be almost “routine,” it is still important for patients to keep in mind that placing dental implants can be a complex process that requires a knowledgeable and experienced dentist. Additionally, patients should understand what to expect during and after their dental implant procedure, including how long the full treatment plan may take, so that they can plan ahead and feel confident at each stage of the process. Take a closer look here at some of the essential must-knows about dental implants, provided by Dr. Cassandra Garcia and the dedicated team at Savannah Smiles Dental in Schertz, TX.

What is a dental implant?

Like many people, you may be surprised to learn that the term "dental implant" does not actually refer to the artificial tooth that replaces a missing natural tooth. Instead, the dental implant is the titanium screw that is surgically implanted into a patient’s jawbone, after which a crown, bridge, or another type of dental restoration can be attached.

Who needs dental implants?

Dental implants are often considered ideal for patients who are already missing one or more natural teeth due to trauma, damage, decay, genetic abnormality, or another factor — as well as those who may be facing the extraction of one or more natural teeth. Candidates for dental implants should have enough healthy bone material and good overall oral and dental health to support the implant and restoration.

How long does it take to get dental implants?

While each dental implant treatment plan is customized and will vary based on a number of personal patient variables, most patients can expect to have a series of appointments spaced out over the course of several months. In some cases, it can take up to a year for the full dental implant process to be completed due to existing oral health issues — like periodontal disease, for example — that need to be addressed prior to initiating the placement of a dental implant.

Will I have to live with missing teeth while they make my dental crowns?

Typically, the longest part of the dental implant process is the period of osseointegration — which refers to the fusing of the metal implant with the bone that is necessary to create stability for supporting the implant and implant-supported restoration. In many cases, this can take several months or longer. During this time, Dr. Garcia will fit you with temporary restorations so that you can enjoy a complete smile while awaiting the placement of your final restorations.

What are the reasons I should get dental implants?

There are a variety of compelling benefits of considering dental implants to restore your smile, including:

• Can replace one or more missing teeth for a more complete smile
• Can improve the aesthetics of your smile
• Can make eating easier and more comfortable
• Restored ability to eat your favorite foods
• Allows for the attachment of long-term restorations, removing the need for messy and unreliable adhesives
• Implant-supported restorations can be cleaned just like natural teeth
• Protects weakened teeth from further damage
• Preserves the facial structure by replacing the natural tooth root
• Results can be long-lasting and even indefinite in some cases

For more information on what to know before getting dental implants, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Garcia.

Choose dental implants in Schertz, TX for a strong, healthy, beautiful new smile you can count on

If you are facing tooth extraction or have lost a permanent tooth but do not want the hassle and worry of removable or temporary restorations, dental implants may be right for you. Discover the life-changing benefits of implant dentistry by calling Savannah Smiles Dental to schedule your consultation or exam with Schertz, TX dentist Dr. Cassandra Garcia today.