Are you missing one or more permanent teeth? Do you want to change the look of your smile? Restore your smile with dental implants. Dental implants are small, cylindrical posts made of durable titanium. We place tooth implants in the jawbone to support restorations like dental crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Treatment with dental implants in our Groesbeck, TX office restores the appearance and function of the smile, making it much easier for patients to eat, speak, and enjoy everyday life. We also provide additional restorative dentistry services to new and existing patients in Groesbeck, Texas.
Dental Implants in Groesbeck, TX
Before implant treatment, we take X-rays to determine which areas of the smile require treatment. We will also plan the exact implant placement from these X-rays. If patients require dental extractions, periodontal therapy, or other treatment before implant surgery, we will perform these treatments to ensure they are healthy. Some patients may also require bone grafting to add enough healthy jaw bone tissue to support the implant.
During implant treatment, we place the titanium implant posts in the jawbone and place a healing cap on top of each implant. Over 3 to 6 months, the implants will fuse with the jaw bone. We will take dental impressions for the prosthesis or restoration that the healed implants will hold in place. Then, once the implants are fully healed, we will attach the permanent crown, bridge, or denture to the implants.
Why Are Dental Implants Necessary?
Dental implants can be necessary for various reasons, primarily related to replacing missing teeth. Here are some of the most common scenarios in which dental implants are considered:
-
Replacing a Single Tooth: If you have lost a single tooth due to decay, injury, or other reasons, a dental implant can replace the missing tooth without affecting the surrounding teeth.
-
Replacing Multiple Teeth: Dental implants can support a bridge or partial denture when several teeth are missing, providing a more stable and comfortable solution than traditional dentures.
-
Supporting Full Dentures: For patients who have lost all their teeth, dental implants can secure full dentures, preventing them from slipping or causing discomfort.
-
Preventing Bone Loss: Tooth loss often leads to bone loss in the jaw, which can alter the shape of your face and lead to additional dental problems. Dental implants help to stimulate bone growth and maintain the integrity of your jawbone.
-
Improving Oral Function: Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew, speak, and confidently smile. Dental implants restore full functionality, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and speak clearly.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them a preferred choice for tooth replacement. Some of the key benefits include:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures attached to the implants blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring your smile and confidence.
- Durability and Longevity: Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike dentures and bridges, which may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, implants are a long-term solution that provides lasting stability and functionality.
- Improved Oral Health: Dental implants help preserve your jawbone and prevent bone loss, a common issue with missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require the reduction of adjacent teeth, preserving the integrity of your natural teeth.
- Enhanced Comfort and Convenience: Dental implants eliminate the discomfort and inconvenience of removable dentures. Since they are permanently fixed, there is no need to worry about slipping, clicking, or removing them for cleaning.
- Better Chewing and Speaking Ability: Missing teeth can make chewing food difficult and affect your speech. Dental implants restore full chewing power, allowing you to easily eat your favorite foods. They also help improve your speech by providing a stable surface for your tongue to form words correctly.
Aftercare for Dental Implants
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants. Here are some tips to help you care for your implants:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily to keep your implants and natural teeth clean and plaque-free. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the implant.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or sticky candies that could damage your implant or crown. These foods can also cause excessive pressure on the implant, leading to complications.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will monitor your implants’ health and ensure they function properly. Regular dental visits also allow your dentist to detect potential issues early on.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure by interfering with the healing process and reducing blood flow to the gums. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve the success rate of your dental implants.
- Address Bruxism: If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard to protect your implants from excessive wear and tear.
Restore Missing Teeth Today
With routine dental care and a good oral hygiene routine, dental implants can last for many years. Call Groesbeck Family Dental for restorative care with dental implants today at (254) 556-3973. You may also schedule a dental appointment with us on our website.