What is a Dental Implant?
A Dental Implant is a small titanium cylinder that is placed into your jawbone. There the bone in your jaw grows around the dental implant. The implant will act like the root of a natural tooth.
Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth that will keep you smiling for life. They are very robust and can last a lifetime. They require the same attention as natural teeth. It is important to brush, floss and continue with regular dental check-ups. Patients love dental implants because they look feel and function like natural teeth.
Why would someone get a Dental Implant?
Reasons patients want Dental Implants:
- Replace one or more teeth
- Want a conservative and predictable tooth loss solution
- Improve the support and stability of full upper or lower denture
- Enhance chewing comfort
- Improve appearance
- Gain confidence while smiling, talking and eating
- Regain overall confidence
When teeth are lost, the jaw will shrink and your remaining teeth can shift. This shrinkage will make you look much older. The shifting teeth will cause occlusion (the way your teeth come together) problems with your bite. Occlusion issues cause problems with eating properly as well as possible pain and tenderness.
How much do Dental Implants cost?
The cost of a tooth replacement with dental implants is dependent on several factors including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support the new teeth. Some additional procedures may be necessary for the placement of your dental implants and to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. Dr. Nugent utilizes CBCT 3D dental X-rays and 3D Printers to safely and efficiently place your dental implant.
Who is typically a candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental Implant candidates are patients who have one or more missing teeth due to an injury or decay. The determining factor will be the amount of available bone. In some situations, bone grafting will be necessary.
How old is too old to get Dental Implants?
Your overall health is more of a determining factor than your age. A general rule is tf you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, then you’re probably healthy enough for implants. Dr. Nugent has completed a dental implants on patients in their nineties.
Why would Dental Implants be more advantageous for me than dentures or a dental bridge?
Dental Implants provide improved appearance that dentures and dental bridges don’t. When an entire tooth (along with crown and root) is missing, there will be shrinking of your jawbone that will cause your face to look older. Fortunately, dental implants can stop this process where a traditional dental bridge or dentures cannot. Dental implants stimulate and preserve jaw bone. Plus, implants do not damage adjacent teeth like an old-fashioned bridge.
Dentures are big and bulky plastic tooth replacement option that rubs on the gum tissue. The dentures do not allow you to eat very well because the chewing forces generated with the plastic is so low.
How will Dental Implants affect my life?
Dental Implant supported teeth look and feel natural and will function naturally as well. You will be able to eat and drink whatever you like without any complications or discomfort. The most wonderful improvement will be how you feel about your smile and your overall appearance. If you were self-conscious or embarrassed by your teeth, your self-esteem will soar as you smile your way through the rest of your life.
Will my new teeth look natural?
Dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort, and function is unmatched. Dental implants are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth because dental implants mimic the entire tooth.
Will I be able to chew naturally or will I have to be more careful?
The dental implant will feel natural in every way because it comes out of the gum tissue just like a natural tooth. Chewing, biting and talking will all be natural and comparable to your natural teeth.
How much time is required for a Dental Implant placement?
From start to finish a 6-month commitment is usually needed. The bone and gums need time to heal before placing the permanent crown.
Is Dental Implant treatment painful?
Most patients say that the surgical phase of their dental implant did not hurt. Most patients share that they were much more comfortable than they had anticipated. Dr. Nugent will prescribe medication to ease the discomfort that my occur.
How will I feel after the treatment?
It’s normal to have some bruising and swelling of your gums and soft tissue and is typically treated with an ordinary over the counter pain reliever. Most patients return to work the next day.
How will I care for my Dental Implants?
You will take care of your new teeth just as you should your natural teeth by brushing and flossing at least twice a day and coming into the office every six months for a Hygiene appointment to have your teeth cleaned.
Visit our office at 3421 Burke Rd, STE A, Pasadena, Texas 77504. See why Dr. Nugent is a leader in implant therapy. You deserve the best dental care possible. Call us today at 713-941-8261.