Dental Implants and Oral Health

At The Dental Design Studios, dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace missing teeth. They are made of titanium, which is biocompatible and fuses with the jawbone over time. The implant itself is a small post that is surgically placed into the jaw. Once the bone has healed around the implant, an abutment is attached to the post, and a dental crown is placed on top. The result is a natural-looking replacement tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

There are two types of dental implants available: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. These implants are placed in the bone of the jaw, and they fuse to the bone over time. Subperiosteal implants are placed on or above the jawbone but under the gumline. This type of implant is typically used for patients with a shallow jawbone who cannot support traditional implants.

The Benefits of Dental Implants in Houston, TX

Improved Appearance

Missing teeth can cause your face to look sunken in, making you look older. Dental implants can help fill out your facial structure and restore your smile’s appearance.

Better Speech

Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak clearly. With dental implants, you can speak confidently without worrying about your teeth slipping out of place.

Easier Eating

Missing teeth can make chewing difficult or even painful. Dental implants allow you to eat your favorite foods without discomfort.

Improved Self-Esteem

Missing teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile. Dental implants in Houston, TX, can regain confidence and help you feel good about yourself again.

Improved Oral Health

Dental implants help to prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to other oral health problems down the road. They also make it easier to brush and floss your teeth properly, which is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.

The Procedure for Dental Implants

The dental implant procedure begins with a thorough examination and consultation. During this visit, our dentist in Houston, TX, will determine if implants are right for you. If so, they will create a treatment plan based on your needs. Next, the dentist will place the titanium post into the jawbone. This post will serve as the root for your new tooth. Once the post is in place, it must heal and fuse with the surrounding bone and tissue. This process can take several months. After it has healed, your dentist will place an abutment on the post. An abutment is a connector piece that will hold your replacement tooth in place. Finally, once your gums have healed around the abutment, a replacement tooth will be attached.

Maintaining Oral Health with Dental Implants

When it comes to maintaining oral health with dental implants in Houston, TX, there are a few key things to keep in mind. 

• Regular brushing and flossing remain essential even with implants. This helps prevent any buildup of plaque or bacteria that can lead to gum disease.
• Attending regular check-ups with our dentist in Houston, TX, is crucial. They can assess the health of your implants and make sure everything is looking good.
• In addition, a balanced diet plays a role in overall oral health. Eating nutrient-rich foods can help support the longevity of your dental implants.
• Avoiding harmful habits like smoking is also important for implant maintenance. Smoking can increase the risk of complications and hinder the healing process after implant surgery.

Practicing good oral hygiene habits and following our dentist in 77055's advice will go a long way in ensuring the success of your dental implants for years to come.

For more information, visit our office, The Dental Design Studios, at 8391 Westview Drive, Houston, TX 77055, or call (713) 468-5800.