A missing tooth can put a hole in your life, as well as your smile, also affecting the way you eat and speak. At Houston Precise Dental Care in Houston, Joe Eckford Jr., DDS provides natural-looking, reliable dental implants that work just like your real teeth. Book an appointment online or call the office today to learn how dental implants can help you regain your smile.
Dental Implants Q & A
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are permanent implants for missing teeth. They consist of three parts:
- A titanium post that is inserted into your jawbone
- A titanium abutment that is screwed into the post
- A porcelain crown customized to fit your smile
These implants are strong and permanent. They blend in naturally with your teeth so you can smile confidently.
Who qualifies for a dental implant?
If you have a missing tooth, you may benefit from a dental implant. You will need to have special X-rays taken to determine if you are a candidate for this treatment.
Dr. Eckford or an oral surgeon may also need to review your health history to ensure this procedure is safe for you.
How is a dental implant placed?
Dental implants require two surgical procedures. During the first procedure, you are under general anesthesia. The titanium implant will be placed within your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.
For 3-6 months after your surgery, the implant, which remains under the gums, bonds with your jawbone. You can wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. Dr. Eckford works on creating your custom crown to ensure it is the right size, shape and color to match your other teeth.
Once your implant is bonded to your jawbone, you have a second surgery to place a collar around the implant so it is no longer underneath your gums. Your surgeon will attach the metal post to your implant, and your replacement tooth fits tightly over this post.
After your replacement tooth is attached, you should be able to use it as a real tooth. Like a real tooth, it will need to be brushed and flossed regularly.
What are the benefits of a dental implant?
Dental implants have huge benefits for people who are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, including:
- Improving your ability to chew
- Increasing your ability to speak clearly
- Enhancing your smile to look complete and natural
- Preventing a sunken, older appearance that missing teeth can cause
Learn more about how a dental implant can improve your life. Call Houston Precise Dental Care today or schedule an appointment online.