Houston, TX Dental Implants

You Can Have Your Smile Back.
Maybe you have been overwhelmed with the prospect of losing your teeth. Maybe you looked into implants a few years ago and felt the solution was no better than living with it. You are not alone. The fact is that technology has come a long way very quickly. And today, we can do amazing work with these new dental Implants. Best of all:

  • The procedure is fast and easy -- We can complete implants in several visits and minimize any discomfort.

  • The results are teeth that really do look and feel real.

No More Dentures, No More Bridges!
If you've lived with old-fashioned dentures or a bridge, you know this is not a great solution. They slip at the worst times, they don't look or feel very natural and they don't last. Even worse, the grinding of adjacent teeth to install dentures or bridges can lead to worse problems. Dental implants only affect the teeth that need to be replaced. And since they are permanently fixed to the jaw bone, there is absolutely no slipping, and they are as durable as original teeth.
Dental implants provide people with the ability to smile with confidence and eat virtually anything they want. People who undertake this procedure can rest assured knowing that their teeth will appear natural and their facial contours will be preserved, maintaining a youthful appearance. The implant procedure requires the surgical placement of small titanium posts to the jawbone where teeth are missing. The titanium and bone integrate. This creates a solid foundation for the artificial teeth. Also, implants can help prevent bone deterioration and preserve facial structure that occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants have the capabilities of changing a person's way of life. With implants, people are rediscovering the confidence and comfort to speak, eat, laugh and enjoy life.

When you make the decision to have dental implants, Midtown Dentistry in Houston, Texas will first perform a dental/radiographic examination and health history. Prior to surgery you will be able to address any concerns you may have about the procedure during your consultation visits with your surgeon and restorative dentist. Our Houston team at Midtown Dentistry will work very closely with you to make your procedure a success. Your questions and concerns are extremely important to us.


Procedure for Implants to hold a Denture
Dental implants are metal anchors which act as tooth root substitutes. They are placed into the jawbone. Small posts that provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth are then attached to the implant above the gum. For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually integrating with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has integrated with the jawbone, the second phase begins. We attach a small healing collar to the implant and then the posts are attached. We will then begin to make the previously designed new teeth. The entire procedure from the day of placing the implant usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life. In many instances, treatment times can be drastically reduced as well.
If you are in need of dental implants in Houston, Texas, Midtown Dentistry is your answer. We will make your dental implant experience as smooth and painless as possible and you can be confident in our expertise and experience. When looking for a Houston implant dentist, look to the doctors at Midtown Dentistry. We are well-versed in every aspect of the dental implant procedure and will make sure that you receive the best care when you come to us for a dental implant in Houston.

 

How do I care for implants?

Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Smoking and alcohol use seem to decrease the long term succes of implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail.

It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year by a hygienist is necessary to ensure that you retain healthy implants and gums.

 

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Success rates vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care (see below), implants can last a lifetime.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

In most cases, anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for an implant procedure. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They also must be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Heavy smokers, people suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders - such as diabetes or heart disease - or patients who have had radiation therapy to the head/neck area need to be evaluated on an individual basis. If you are considering implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental Implants?

In general, implants are not covered by dental insurance at this time. Coverage under your medical plan may be possible, depending on the insurance plan and/or cause of tooth loss. Detailed questions about your individual needs and how they relate to insurance should be discussed with your dentist and your insurance provider.

How Painful Are Dental Implants?

Most people who have received dental implants say that there is very little discomfort involved in the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction. After the dental implant, mild soreness can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Motrin.