Dental Implants
Dallas, TX
At our office, we offer several dental implant solutions to address one or multiple missing teeth. For many of our patients, dental implants are an ideal solution for tooth loss, capable of replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth.
Dental implants are a convenient, durable, and secure restorative option - the next best thing to your natural teeth. Implants are also an aesthetic preference, mirroring the appearance of natural teeth. Their myriad of benefits have made them the industry standard for tooth replacement.
To learn more about dental implants, visit our frequently asked questions or explore your implant treatment options.
Over the years, dental implants have proven to serve as an effective replacement for missing teeth. When properly implanted, cleaned, and cared for, a dental implant can last for over 15 years. At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, our surgeons recommend dental implants over other tooth replacement options, as dental implants are proven to be more reliable and stable.
The materials that make up a dental implant contribute to their stability and longevity. The implant consists of a metal screw implanted in the jaw, a crown resembling a real tooth, and an abutment that connects the two pieces. Our implant crowns are designed to be indistinguishable from real teeth—and just as durable.
As the name might suggest, the All-On-4® treatment uses four implants to support an entire bridge. This treatment is a preferred restoration for patients missing all or most of their teeth on one or both arches.
During surgery, the posterior (back) implants are placed at an angle to utilize the strongest parts of the jawbone. In some cases, full-arch restorations may require six to eight implants instead of the four standard implants. The revolutionary placement and surgical technique for these implants makes the All-On-4® treatment minimally invasive and much more effective than other options.
Traditional dentures are removable appliances that rest on the gums. With traditional dentures, many patients can experience discomfort, eating difficulties, and embarrassing slips.
An implant-supported denture is similar to an All-on-4® treatment but typically requires more implants. If you are interested in an improved alternative to traditional dentures, you may be a candidate for an implant-supported denture.
Osseointegration, or the process of bone fusing to the dental implant, is necessary for the benefits and success of a dental implant. Implant failure is virtually guaranteed if osseointegration is unable to occur. For patients experiencing bone loss or deterioration, a ridge augmentation or bone graft may be necessary. Our office offers ridge augmentation in order to improve the quality and quantity of bone. Ridge augmentations can allow patients to receive dental implants when it otherwise would have been impossible.
FAQ
Q. What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically embedded deep into the jawbone. Each screw is topped with an artificial tooth made of ceramic or porcelain, making it indistinguishable from other teeth.
Once the implant is placed, the healing process will begin, and the implant screw will fuse to your jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. Once healed, the implant screw can withstand and support even the strongest bite.
Q. Who is a candidate for dental implants?
During your consultation, Dr. Wallace will assist in determining if you are a candidate. Your assessment may consist of diagnostic tests, including digital x-rays and CBCT scans, to determine the volume and mass of your jawbone. If you have experienced significant bone deterioration due to tooth loss or other factors, a bone graft (sometimes called a ridge augmentation) may be necessary before your implants can be placed.
Our dentist will also verify your oral and overall health. It is best to disclose your full medical history and lifestyle to your dentists to ensure you are the right candidate. Patients with leukemia, uncontrolled diabetes, neck or head radiation therapy, or who regularly smoke may not qualify for dental implants. Likewise, if you have severe gum recession or periodontal disease, you may not be a good candidate for dental implants.
When determining if a patient is eligible for dental implant placement, age does not determine candidacy.
The dentist may recommend bridges in place of implants as a restorative treatment. During your visit, Dr. Wallace will discuss and compare dental implants versus bridges with you to help guide you to the right decision.
Before receiving or electing for dental implants, meet with our dentist to review your medical history and ensure you fully understand the procedure, aftercare, cost, and risks of surgery.
Q. How long is the recovery process for dental implants?
The number of teeth being replaced and the extent of damage to your bone or gums will lengthen your surgery, which will lengthen the healing period in turn. On average, most patients will take 6-8 months to reach a full recovery.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene and a nutrient-rich diet as recommended by your doctor can help achieve a shorter recovery time and optimal results.
Q. What is the healing process like after the dental implant procedure?
The vast majority of dental implant procedures are ultimately successful, and these patients will have no complications. If you experience minor issues, it is best to contact the dentist or our office to resolve any issues.
Prior to your procedure, your dentist and nurses will create an aftercare plan that will work best with your health and lifestyle.
Q. What risks are associated with dental implants?
While dental implants are an effective solution for damaged or missing teeth, it may not be the right solution for everyone. The dental implant procedure itself is safe and quick, but it is essential to understand the risks of implant surgery before treatment.
We conduct a thorough health check in our office for the purpose of determining if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants. In some cases, we may determine that another procedure, like bridges, would work best.
While guiding you through the process, Dr. Wallace will inform you about risks and alternative procedures to help you make the best possible decisions for your treatment.
Q. What can I do if I have bone loss?
The fusing of the bone to the titanium implant screw, or osseointegration, is required for a dental implant to succeed and requires an adequate amount of bone in the jaw. If osseointegration is unable to occur, implant failure is virtually guaranteed.
To improve the quality and quantity of deteriorated bone, our surgeon offers ridge augmentation for applicable patients, allowing patients to receive dental implants when it would otherwise be impossible.
Schedule A Consultation
Trying to decide if a dental implant procedure is right for you? Give us a call at 214-363-9946 to discover your options and schedule a consultation today! |
