The Most Lifelike Replacement Teeth with Implant Dentistry
Whether you’ve lost a tooth in an accident or to gum disease or tooth decay, missing teeth can make you feel less-than-confident about your smile and seriously detract from your ability to eat and speak properly. Replacing those missing teeth is vitally important, and Dr. Huffstutler generally recommends dental implants, the sturdiest, truest-to-life dental prosthetic currently available.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant refers to a screw-like device that a periodontist or oral surgeon implants into your jaw to replace the missing tooth root. Once the implant is in place, your dentist will secure a beautiful dental crown to the implant post to replace a single missing tooth. If you have more than one missing tooth, your dentist can place an implant-secured bridge, partial denture, or full denture.
Dental implants have quickly become the most successful and comprehensive method for replacing missing teeth for a number of reasons. First, dental implant secured crowns, bridges, and dentures offer the stability and security of natural teeth. Second, when designed and placed by a talented restorative dentist, dental implants look completely natural. Finally, with proper care, the implanted posts can last for life.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Placing dental implants typically requires two to three separate procedures and the coordinated efforts of your general dentist and a dental specialist:
- Placing the implant post. For this initial phase, Dr. Huffstutler will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon or periodontist who specializes in placing implant posts. The periodontist or oral surgeon will surgically insert the post in the jaw where the surrounding bone tissue will bond to it. Recovery times vary, but the average patient can expect to wait 4-6 months for the jaw to fully heal.
- Inserting the abutment. The abutment piece connects the implant post to the crown, bridge, or denture plate and provides the optimal level of security and stability. Some types of dental implants do not have a separate abutment, meaning that you may not need this additional procedure.
- Positioning the restoration. For the final step, Dr. Huffstutler will place your crown, bridge, or denture (referred to as “restorations”). Hand-crafted in a dental lab, your dental implant restoration will blend with your remaining natural teeth, completing your smile.
Do You Qualify for Dental Implants?
If you qualify, dental implants can provide the most lifelike and long-lasting option for restoring and preserving your smile after tooth loss. To find out if you qualify for implants, reserve an appointment by clicking the banner below, or by calling our office in Ft. Worth, TX, today at 817-918-3038. Our office welcomes patients from all over DFW, including Dallas, North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities.