Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss. You can use this treatment alone or in conjunction with other dental treatments to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile. Here’s what you need to know about the safety of dental implants, who should consider getting a dental implant, and how to decide if implants are right for you. If you have more questions about finding a Houston Dentist, contact 832-617-5531 to reach Lovett Dental North Heights.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth that is anchored to the patient’s mouth with a screw-like device. Unlike dentures, flippers, or bridges, a dental implant is designed to be permanently fixed into place. The implant procedure usually takes several steps, including the placement of the implant hardware, followed by a healing period before the porcelain crown can be placed. Sometimes, same-day implants can be done. Once the procedure has been completed, the patient has a natural-looking tooth that functions equally as well, if not better.
What Are Dental Implants Made Out Of?
A dental implant is comprised of multiple different components. The part you see is a porcelain crown, similar to temporary crowns fitted over broken or chipped teeth. Underneath the crown is an abutment, which is connected to the dental implant hardware. This hardware is made of biocompatible materials like titanium or surgical stainless steel and is implanted deep into the jawbone where a natural tooth root would sit.
Safety of Dental Implants
The safety of dental implants is highly rated, and the treatment is well-established in the dental care industry. The procedure has extremely high success rates. Our team designs your implants to look, feel, and work just like a natural tooth. In fact, many people who get an implant forget over time that the tooth is a prosthetic. Because the materials for the procedure are compatible with the body, the risk of infection or implant rejection is extremely low in patients who are good candidates.
Who Can Get a Dental Implant?
Dental implants may be recommended for patients who have lost one or more of their permanent teeth. However, not all patients are good candidates for a dental implant. Contraindications for implant therapy may include:
- Poor bone quality: Is the bone underneath the missing tooth is weak? If so, a bone graft may be necessary. In some cases, even a graft cannot improve bone quality enough to be suitable for implant therapy.
- Converging tooth roots: A patient who has had a single missing tooth for some time may experience the convergence of the two nearby tooth roots, making it impossible to place an implant without damaging the root structures of the adjacent teeth.
- Allergy to anesthesia: Dental implant procedures typically require a sedation dentist. If a person is allergic to anesthesia or has difficulty waking after being put under general, another dental procedure that requires only light sedation or no sedation may be recommended.
- Chronic health conditions: Some health conditions make it more dangerous for a patient to have a dental implant. Have you had a recent heart attack? Additionally, conditions such as immunodeficiency, a history of valvular prosthesis surgery, and osteoporosis make this process more complicated. Furthermore, if you are taking blood thinners or biphosphate medications, like Fosamax or Boniva, you may need to talk to your dentist.
In addition to dental implants, we offer a variety of other dental services in Houston’s North Heights. These services include the following:
Comfort and Quality at Lovett North Heights
We provide a friendly, comfortable environment that sets you at ease from the moment you step through the door. Our friendly staff will get to know your family members by name, and we will do our best to make everyone feel comfortable as possible. Houston families agree that Lovett North Heights is an excellent office to come to for any dental procedure. Whether you are looking to have a complicated procedure that requires multiple appointments, like getting dental implants or routine cleaning, Lovett Dental North Heights has you covered. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to find out of dental implants will be a good fit for your individual situation. Replacing a missing tooth is easier than many people realize.
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implant therapy may be the right solution for you to get the beautiful, functional smile you want. At Lovett Dental North Heights, we can help you learn more about the dental implant process and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. We’ll discuss your available options and answer any questions you have about getting a dental implant, from cost to what to expect during oral surgery. Contact us today at 832-617-5531 to book your dentist consultation.
