What Are Dental Implants?
Tooth loss may be a result of severe decay, gum (periodontal disease), tooth infection, or other types of circumstances. However, implant dentistry offers a highly effective way to replace a missing tooth from the root up. While other types of solutions replace the crown (or visible) portions of teeth, implants fuse with the jaw for a stable and long-term answer to the loss of natural teeth. Since implants can replace one tooth or a whole arch of teeth, they are often a preferred solution for tooth replacement. At Made Ya Smile, we offer single dental implants, implant bridges and implant dentures, and All-on-4® dental implants. These treatments provide a sturdy, durable, and highly aesthetic solution and are the closest tooth replacement when it comes to replicating natural teeth. Even if you have lost natural teeth, Made Ya Smile Dental offers the solutions you need to enjoy your life to the fullest after tooth loss. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Nishino and our team of practice professionals.
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What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are commonly performed to replace a missing tooth or teeth and restore oral function. There are many other benefits to dental inserts, including:
- Dental implants prevent bone loss and gum disease
- They are long-lasting
- Dental implants help to stabilize adjacent teeth
- Function the same as your natural teeth
Am I a Candidate for a Dental Implant?
Patients with varying tooth replacement needs may be ideal candidates for dental implant procedures. From single missing teeth to full-arch tooth loss, dental implants bring effective treatment solutions to replacing any number of teeth with an option that closely resembles tooth structure. Like tooth roots, implants are embedded into the jawbone through a process called osseointegration and support a natural-looking crown, bridge, or full-arch appliance. This significantly improves biting and chewing function, stability, and long-term health and allows you to speak and smile with greater confidence. Dr. Nishino may recommend an alternate tooth replacement solution if you are pregnant, using tobacco products, or have medical conditions that may preclude you from implant surgery.
Dental implants are often chosen for their long-term benefits, lifelike appearance, and stable biting function and can be placed in the upper and lower jaws. You may be a candidate for one or more dental implants if you have decayed or damaged teeth that cannot be saved or wish to switch from a removable denture to a permanent option. Dr. Nishino can help you determine if dental implants are ideal for replacing teeth missing from your smile.
How Do Single Dental Implants Work?
Single dental implants in Friendswood, TX, are used to replace just one missing tooth. After we place the implant post in the jaw and it has integrated with the bone — after about a month — we will attach a custom-made crown to the implant post. This will match your surrounding teeth and provide a seamless, stunning smile. Single teeth implants can be used both in the front and back of the mouth.
What Are Implant Bridges and Implant Dentures?
If you're a patient who has multiple missing teeth in one specific area of the mouth, our implant dentists in Friendswood, TX, may suggest an implant bridge. An implant bridge is when two or more crowns are bonded together to create one dental appliance. This appliance is then attached to dental implants, which are secured to the jaw.
If you have missing teeth throughout the mouth and not just in one specific area, you may need full-mouth dental implants. These implant-supported dentures attach to two or more implants that are strategically placed within the jaw for optimal security and function.
How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?
All-on-4 dental implants are an advanced procedure that can replace multiple missing teeth with full-mouth dental implants. This restoration process works by inserting implant screws into various spots of the jaw. From there, a full-arch restoration will be securely attached to the implants. If you're worried about having to limit your diet due to removable appliances like dentures, this could be a wonderful alternative.
What Can I Expect From Dental Implant Recovery?
During dental implant recovery, you may experience some swelling in the jaw and treatment area, a bit of discomfort, and bleeding. This is normal and should subside after a few days. If this is not the case, please give our Friendswood, TX dental office a call so we can determine how to move forward. It's important to follow the aftercare instructions we send home with you for optimal healing. Additionally, we recommend maintaining a soft-food diet, avoiding strenuous exercise, and trying not to brush near your new implant.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Dental Insurance?
As a full-service dental practice, Made Ya Smile Dental in Friendswood, TX, is pleased to accept most major PPO dental plans and will contact your provider to learn if your plan offers coverage for dental implant surgery or restoration. Dental implants may be an excellent option for tooth replacement. To help all individuals get the care they want and need for their oral health and cover any out-of-pocket costs, we take a range of payment methods and partner with CareCredit® to bring low-cost financing solutions to our patients.
Dental implants FAQ
What can I eat and drink after dental implant surgery?
Eating soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and cottage cheese in addition to protein shakes and fruit smoothies are good options for two days following your surgery. You will get detailed post-op instructions following your surgery. If you have any additional questions, schedule an appointment with our implant dentist.
How long do teeth implants take?
The time it takes depends on each patient and their case. It may take longer if you have more teeth being replaced or less time if you only have one. It is also possible that you may need it to be done in multiple stages, meaning that you might need a tooth extraction before an implant procedure. Contact our implant dentist at Made Ya Smile Friendswood for more information.
Are dental implants painful?
A dental implant procedure shouldn’t hurt. It is common to be sore after the surgery, but you should not feel extreme pain during a dental implant in Friendswood, TX. As a viable solution that’s been around for years, this technique allows you to experience minimal pain and discomfort. Schedule an appointment with our implant dentists for additional information.
How long does it take for an implant to heal?
The healing process takes a minimum of six weeks but can be as long as 12. When you schedule dental implant surgery in Friendswood, TX, our team works delicately so that your healing will be minimally painful. For additional information on the healing process, talk to our dental team.
A Long-Term Option for Missing Teeth
Addressing tooth loss with dental implants can help you enjoy a cosmetic appeal and functional benefits that most closely replicate that of natural teeth. Because they integrate with the jawbone, implants are extremely stable and offer long-term value to your oral health. Dr. Nishino may partner with dental specialists to bring comprehensive implant dentistry to Friendswood, TX patients. Do not let tooth loss keep you from enjoying a healthy and confident smile. Get in touch with our implant dentists in Friendswood, TX, at Made Ya Smile Dental today and schedule your implant consultation with Dr. Nishino.