Losing a tooth can affect more than your smile. It can change how you chew, speak and maintain your oral health. Dental implants provide a long-lasting solution for replacing one tooth, several teeth or a complete arch with a stable, natural-looking restoration.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small, screw-like posts that serve as artificial tooth roots. They are usually made from biocompatible titanium that fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Once integrated, an implant can securely support a crown, bridge or denture.
The Dental Implant Process
- Initial consultation: We evaluate your oral health, take digital images and determine whether your gums and bone can support an implant.
- Implant placement: The titanium implant is placed in the jawbone and allowed time to integrate.
- Abutment placement: Once healing is complete, an abutment connects the implant to the restoration.
- Final restoration: A custom crown, bridge or denture completes your smile.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
- Natural appearance: Your restoration is designed to match your natural teeth.
- Long-term durability: With proper care, implant posts can last a lifetime.
- Improved function: Implants restore stable chewing and speaking ability.
- Bone preservation: Implant stimulation helps reduce jawbone loss.
- No damage to neighboring teeth: Implants do not require adjacent teeth for support.
Who Is a Candidate?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth may be candidates. Adequate bone density and healthy gums are important. If bone loss has occurred, grafting may be recommended before implant placement. Health conditions, medications and smoking are also reviewed during your consultation.
Caring for Dental Implants
Care for implants much like natural teeth: brush twice daily, floss or use an approved water flosser, and maintain regular examinations and professional cleanings.
Call 281-666-9912 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Olagoke Masha or Dr. Jennifer Ogbuehi and learn whether dental implants are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, implant posts can last a lifetime. The crown, bridge or denture attached to the implant may eventually need replacement because of normal wear.
Do dental implants require special care?
No special maintenance is usually needed beyond brushing, flossing and routine dental visits. We may recommend interdental brushes or a water flosser for easier cleaning.
Can I get implants if I have bone loss?
Often, yes. A bone graft may first be used to rebuild the jaw and create a stronger implant foundation.
Are dental implants covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Some plans cover the restoration or preparatory procedures even when implant surgery is excluded. Our team can help you review financial options.
