Restoring Your Smile with Dental Implants

Dental implants have become a very reliable and affordable way to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is a titanium post that is placed below the gums. An implant offers a smile that looks and feels very natural, as it is permanent and not removed. It is also a very conservative treatment option, since it does not involved cutting adjacent teeth, which is done with a bridge and some types of partial dentures. Dental implants are used to treat various problems; they can be used to treat a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or to provide retention and support for complete dentures.

There are two steps involved with dental implants. First, surgery is performed to place the implant. This surgery is performed with local anesthetic and most patients choose to undergo sedation as well. Following placement of the implant, two to six months (depending on many factors) of healing is typically required for the bone to integrate with the implant and firmly hold it in place. Once healing is complete the necessary crowns, bridges, or dentures are fabricated to fit the implants and restore function.

While many people can benefit from dental implants, there are certain factors that must be considered to qualify for this type of treatment.  Because implants require surgery, patients must be in good health, have healthy gums, have adequate bone to support the implant, and be committed to meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits.  If you are considering implants, a thorough evaluation by Dr. McEntire at Hutto Premier Dentistry will help determine if you are a good candidate.  Because Dr. McEntire both places and restores implants, he can provide continuity between the surgical and restorative phases of care, allowing for the implant to be placed with the final restorative outcome in mind.