Dental implants are permanent replacements for broken or missing teeth. The implant procedure involves replacing the missing tooth or teeth with metal posts that are screwed into the jawline. While some people consider implants a form of cosmetic dentistry, dental implants are a medical necessity for some patients. Implants look and function like your own natural teeth. Implants are a welcome change to uncomfortable bridges or dentures that can slip and cause painful blisters on the gums. At Lovett Dental Beaumont, we offer dental implants accompanied by sedation dentistry.

a handful of dental implantsWhy Do People Get Dental Implants?

Patients may have implant surgery for a variety of reasons. One of the top reasons patients choose implants is convenience. Implants are surgically attached to the patient’s jawbone. They feel and function like the root found in natural teeth. Made of titanium, the implants fuse with the patient’s jawbone and are permanently fixed in place.

You may want to consider implants or other cosmetic dental services if your dental picture fits into the following criteria:

  • Missing teeth
  • Difficulty chewing your food or speaking
  • You do not suffer from chronic medical conditions that inhibit bone healing
  • Don’t want or cannot tolerate bridges or dentures 

Replace a Broken or Missing Tooth With a Dental Implant

The dental implant procedure involves replacing the missing tooth or teeth with metal posts that are screwed into the jawline. Because implants are affixed directly in your mouth, they won’t slip like bridges or dentures, nor do they ever have to be removed for cleaning.

The way the surgery is performed is based on a set of variables, including the condition of the patient’s jawbone, the number of implants, and the patient’s overall health. Typically, dental implant surgery or emergency dental services is tiered, meaning that it involves more than one procedure.

Suitable Implant Candidates

Suitable candidates for implant surgery should be in good health overall. They should also have proper oral health, excluding missing teeth. They should not smoke or abuse alcohol or illicit drugs. Furthermore, suitable candidates need to understand that the process of dental implantation takes time. It will require several visits to the dentist to complete. They will also have to maintain proper oral health and hygiene until the procedure is complete. Patients suffering from mouth infections or gum diseases are not considered good candidates. The underlying source of infection will have to be resolved before starting the implant process.

Types of Dental Implants in Beaumont, Texas

There are two common types of implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are comprised of metal screws and are surgically implanted into the patient’s jawbone. The implant can house one or more prosthetic teeth. Subperiosteal implants are placed on the jawbone’s top, with the metal posts protruding out of the gum. This type of implant is used when patients have reduced bone height.

What to Expect With Dental Implants At A Neighborhood Orthodontist

Implant surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. It’s a staged procedure, which leaves enough time in between for adequate healing. The steps of undergoing implants are as follows:

  • Consultation
  • Tooth removal (if necessary)
  • Jawbone preparation
  • Implantation
  • Recovery 

At your initial consultation for dental implants in Beaumont, Texas, your dentist will determine whether implants are right for you. If so, he or she will then remove any damaged teeth and prepare your jawbone for placement. 

You will return for the actual implant placement. You will then be allowed enough time for adequate healing, which can take up to six months. During this time period, a temporary crown will be placed over the metal stud. Afterward, you will then undergo abutment placement and, then, final artificial tooth placement. 

After the entire procedure is complete, it’s important to continue with proper dental follow-up. In addition to your regularly scheduled dental exams and teeth cleaning, your dentist will want to ensure that you’re not having pain or they are loosening. 

Contact Lovett Dental Beaumont in East Houston, Texas

Implants are only one of the cosmetic dental services we offer. At Lovett Dental Beaumont, we offer:

If you’ve been considering implants to improve your smile but aren’t sure if they’re right for you, contact Lovett Dental in Beaumont at 409-924-8100 to schedule a consultation.