If you have a severe cavity that has affected the appearance or functionality of a tooth, a dental implant could be a good option for you. Even if the tooth isn’t visible when you smile, a non-functioning tooth will lead to serious dental issues if left untreated. Call Splendid Dental Bellaire by calling 713-244-7797 to find out more about dental implants. Failing to treat a dysfunctional tooth leads to even more extensive dental work in the future and other conditions such as:
- Decay in nearby teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- Movement and decay of nearby teeth
- Speech problems
- Bone loss
- Persistent toothache
- Altered facial features
- Bad breath
- Infection
- Lowered self-esteem
A dental implant may be a viable option to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant procedure is similar to having a cavity filled, but the process is more involved. A dental implant usually requires multiple appointments, but you will end up with a whole new tooth! Getting a tooth replaced should not cause you stress. You will want to find a dentist who is committed to providing pain-free dentistry. They should also offer sedation dentistry options and have dental sedation training.
If you are looking to have a tooth replaced, finding the best dentist can be challenging. At some dental offices, a dental implant is considered a major procedure, but we install dental implants every day. We offer a few types of dental implants in our Bellaire office:
Endosteal Dental Implants
These dental implants are anchored into the jawbone. They are typically made of titanium, polymeric, or ceramic material. The new tooth or teeth will perfectly match your existing smile. Endosteal implants are the most common types of dental implants. Your dentist will evaluate various factors in developing a plan for dental implants, and that evaluation will determine between endosteal implants and subperiosteal. The surgeon will make a recommendation based on the size, shape, and health of your jawbone. Endosteal implants, which resemble small upside-down screws with a cap, are reserved for people with strong jawbones.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
These dental implants are placed under the gum, above the jawbone. This type of implant is an option for patients with significant bone loss in their jaw. Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum, and they rest above the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are a good option for a person with bone loss in their jaw. In certain cases, dentists can reconstruct the jawbone’s shape and size to allow a patient to support other types of dental implants.
Alternative Dental Implant Options
Suppose your jawbone is not able to support dental implants. In that case, several techniques can be used to rebuild bone, restore your natural jawline, and provide a sturdy foundation for teeth that have implants installed already. With today’s technology, your dental implant specialist can usually install dental implants without reconstructive oral surgery, but these options are available.
Caring for Dental Implants with Splendid Dental Bellaire
After your jawbone has attached firmly to the implant’s surface, you will receive your permanent tooth. Proper jaw integration takes between three and six months. While your jaw recovers, you will want to avoid foods that are difficult to chew. You will also want to be careful when flossing your teeth, and your dentist may advise you to stop flossing altogether. You may experience a bit of sensitivity for the first few days after the procedure, but most of our patients report minimal discomfort (similar to the pain after having a cavity filled).
Getting dental implants may be easier than you think. If you’d like to discuss your dental implant options with an expert, call Splendid Dental Bellaire at 713-244-7797.
