A missing tooth can cause significant havoc with your smile. They may cause the neighboring teeth to move and disturb your bite and alignment. At University Oaks Dental in Houston, Texas, we offer dental implants that will prevent these problems and reinstate the look and function of your smile.
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth replacement. It is the root portion of the prosthetic tooth and is shaped like a screw. The implant is composed of titanium and inserted into the bone socket of the missing tooth root.
The bone then naturally grows around the implant and becomes part of the jawbone. Once this process is complete, a connecting piece is placed over the implant and finally topped with an artificial tooth. Dental implants behave just like a natural tooth as they get integrated with the jawbone.
Dental implants serve like your natural teeth and help to:
During your preliminary consultation, we will perform a complete dental exam, besides X-rays and CT scans, to determine the availability of sufficient bone mass to support the restoration. Once that is concluded, the process involves four steps:
Placement
With minimal disruption to the gums, the titanium implant is drilled down into the missing tooth's socket.
Osseointegration
During this stage, the bone grows around the implant screw and completely integrates with it. This can take anywhere between four to six months.
Abutment
Once the implant has grafted appropriately with the surrounding bone, we attach a tiny connector piece called an abutment. We then allow the adjoining gum tissue to heal for about another six weeks.
Dental Crown
The last step is to secure the prosthetic tooth crown onto the abutment. This crown tooth is fabricated at our dental lab, and we ensure that it matches your existing natural teeth. Finally, you are ready with your new smile.
With dental implants, you will regain all the functions of your natural teeth. You can once again eat all your favorite foods without any restrictions. But at the same time, avoid biting or chewing on hard objects. However, it is imperative to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent harmful bacteria accumulation, which may cause further problems.
To learn more about dental implants, visit our office, University Oaks Dental, at 6363 San Felipe St #200b, Houston, TX 77057. You can also reach us at (713) 461 8012.
MON - TUE 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
WED - THU 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed
