Dental Implants in Rosenberg, TX

What Are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, designed to replace missing teeth. They are surgically placed in the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for a dental restoration.

A dental implant is usually composed of multiple parts:

• Implant Fixture or Post: This is the main component of the implant surgically placed into the jawbone. It is typically made of titanium or zirconia and serves as the artificial root for the replacement tooth.
• Abutment: The abutment is a connecting piece that attaches the implant fixture to the crown or prosthetic tooth. It sits on top of the implant fixture and protrudes through the gum line.
• Prosthetic Tooth or Teeth: This is the visible part of the implant that resembles a natural tooth. It is typically made of porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of materials to mimic the appearance and function of a real tooth.
• Abutment Screw: This small screw secures the abutment to the implant fixture, providing a stable connection between the two components.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Some of the many benefits of implant restorations include the following:

Improved Appearance and Confidence

Dental implants provide a natural-looking solution for missing teeth, enhancing your smile and boosting confidence. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, allowing you to smile, speak, and eat with ease.

Enhanced Ability to Chew and Speak

With dental implants, you can enjoy improved chewing efficiency and speech clarity. The stability and strength of implants allow for comfortable and efficient chewing of a wide variety of foods, as well as clear and articulate speech.

Preservation of Facial Structure

Dental implants help preserve the natural contours of your face by preventing bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing. By integrating with the jawbone, implants stimulate bone growth and maintain facial support, preventing the sunken appearance that can result from bone resorption.

Long-lasting Solution

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Unlike traditional fixed bridges or traditional dentures that may need to be replaced periodically, dental implants offer a durable and permanent tooth replacement option.

No Need to Alter Adjacent Teeth

Unlike traditional bridges, which require the alteration of adjacent teeth for support, dental implants stand independently, preserving the integrity of neighboring teeth. This helps maintain the health and structure of adjacent teeth, avoiding unnecessary alterations and potential complications.

Improved Oral Health

Dental implants help stabilize the remaining teeth by filling in gaps and preventing shifting or tilting of adjacent teeth. This helps maintain proper alignment and occlusion, reducing the risk of issues such as misalignment, tooth decay, and gum disease. By promoting overall oral health, dental implants contribute to a healthier and more functional smile.

Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?

You may qualify for dental implant solutions if any of the following apply to you:

• Individuals with one or more missing teeth
• Patients with sufficient jawbone density to support implants
• Those with good overall oral health and committed to proper hygiene
• Non-smokers or individuals willing to quit smoking
• Patients without uncontrolled chronic conditions that may affect healing
• Individuals with adequate space for implant placement
• Those with a commitment to following post-operative instructions

Types of Dental Implants

Ceramic Implants

Ceramic implants, made from zirconium oxide (zirconia), offer a metal-free alternative for patients with metal allergies or preferences. Zirconia is a biocompatible and highly aesthetic material that closely resembles the natural color of teeth. These implants are particularly suitable for those seeking a natural-looking and hypoallergenic solution.

Singular Implants

Also known as single-tooth implants, these are designed to replace individual missing teeth. A singular implant post is surgically placed in the jawbone, and once it has been integrated, a customized dental crown is attached, creating a stable and long-lasting replacement tooth. Singular implants are an excellent option for restoring both function and aesthetics for isolated missing teeth.

All-on-4 Implants

The All-on-4 implant technique is a streamlined solution for those requiring full-arch tooth replacement. Instead of individual implants for each missing tooth, just four strategically placed implants are used to support an entire arch of replacement teeth. This approach often eliminates the need for bone grafting, making it a more efficient and cost-effective option for many patients.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures combine the stability of dental implants with the convenience of removable dentures. Several implants are placed in the jawbone to serve as anchors for the denture prosthesis. This approach provides a secure and comfortable fit, enhancing chewing ability and preventing the slipping or movement commonly associated with traditional dentures.

Implant-Supported Bridges

For patients missing multiple teeth in a row, implant-supported bridges offer a permanent solution. Two or more implants are strategically placed to serve as supports for a fixed bridge of artificial teeth. This option replaces the need for conventional tooth-supported bridges, preserving the health and integrity of the remaining natural teeth.

The Dental Implant Process

Consultation

During the initial consultation, our Rosenberg implant dentists will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health, including taking X-rays and 3D scans. This allows them to assess the density and quality of your jawbone, as well as the condition of your existing teeth and gums. 

Dr. Collins or Dr. Hatcher will discuss your goals, concerns, and any medical conditions that may impact the next treatment plan. They will explain the various implant options and help you determine the most suitable solution for your needs.

Treatment Planning

Using advanced imaging techniques like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), our team will create a highly detailed, three-dimensional model of your jaw and teeth. 

This virtual representation allows us to meticulously plan the placement of your dental implants, ensuring precise positioning for optimal function and aesthetics. We will also determine if any supplementary procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, are required to create a sturdy foundation for the implants.

Preparation

If necessary, preparatory procedures will be scheduled before the implant placement surgery. Bone grafting may be recommended if there is insufficient bone density or volume to support the implants. For a bone graft, biocompatible material is used to augment the existing jawbone, creating a solid base for the implants to integrate successfully. Tooth extractions may also be required to remove any compromised teeth that could interfere with the implant placement or healing process.

Dental Implant Placement

On the day of your implant surgery, we make sure you’re calm and comfortable by administering a local anesthetic or offering sedation dentistry options, depending on your preference. Once the area is numb, our skilled implant dentist will make a small incision in the gum to access the jawbone. 

Using precise surgical techniques, they will carefully create the space for the implant and then insert the titanium or zirconia post into the predetermined position. The incisions will be closed with sutures, and you will be provided with detailed post-operative instructions to aid in the healing process.

Dental Implant Aftercare

Proper dental care and maintenance are essential for the long-term success of dental implants. Our team recommends the following:

1. Follow post-operative instructions carefully. Your Rosenberg implant dentist will provide specific guidelines for caring for the surgical site and promoting optimal healing.
2. Take any prescribed medications as directed, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, to prevent infection and manage discomfort.
3. Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days after the implant placement surgery. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the surgical site.
4. Apply cold compresses to the outside of your face near the implant site to reduce swelling and discomfort in the initial days following the procedure.
5. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the area clean and promote healing.
6. Avoid drinking through a straw, smoking, or consuming alcoholic beverages, as these activities can disrupt the healing process.
7. Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, but be gentle around the implant site to avoid irritation.
8. Attend all follow-up appointments with your Rosenberg implant dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure proper integration of the implant.
9. Avoid biting or chewing on the implant site until your dentist gives you the go-ahead, typically after the healing and integration process is complete.
10. Consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an oral irrigator (water flosser) to clean around the implant area effectively without causing trauma.
11. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms, contact us immediately for guidance and potential intervention.
12. Maintain regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to maintain the long-term success and health of your dental implants.

Financing Dental Implants

We offer several financing options to make affording a fuller smile with dental implants a reality for more patients. Learn more about how we can help you afford your dental implant solution with this helpful guide.

• Insurance: For patients with dental insurance coverage, Rosenberg Dental and Implant Center will work with your provider to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs for your dental implant treatment.
• Cash: Patients without insurance or those who prefer to pay out-of-pocket can take advantage of our affordable cash prices for dental implant procedures.
• Credit Cards: We accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, to make paying for your dental implant treatment more convenient.
• CareCredit: CareCredit is a healthcare financing option that allows you to pay for your dental implant treatment over time with convenient monthly payments and special financing options.
• Lending Club: Lending Club is a personal loan provider that offers competitive rates and flexible terms for financing dental procedures like dental implants.
• Proceed Finance: Proceed Finance is a healthcare financing company that provides a variety of payment plans and options to help make your dental implant treatment more affordable.
• Sunbit: Sunbit is a buy-now, pay-later financing solution that allows you to spread out the cost of your dental implant treatment over time with flexible payment options.
• Cherry Payment Plan: The Cherry Payment Plan is a patient financing option that offers interest-free payment plans for dental procedures, including dental implant treatment.