Dental implants are metal posts made of titanium that act as new roots for missing teeth. They attach to the jawbone and help hold a false tooth, bridge, or denture in place. Dr. Bassam Abazid in San Antonio, TX, uses dental implants to help patients with missing teeth.
Dr. Abazid can use implants to replace one or more missing teeth. Implants can hold a single crown, support bridges, or secure dentures. This helps avoid problems like slipping dentures. No matter how many teeth are missing, dental implants provide a strong and lasting replacement.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Here’s more about the benefits of dental implants:
- Better Look: Missing teeth can make you self-conscious. Implants support restorations that look like natural teeth. They fill in gaps and match your natural teeth’s color and shape.
- Improved Function: Implants help you eat and speak better. They act like real tooth roots, making it easier to eat and pronounce words clearly.
- Durable Results: Implants are permanent and can last for years. Although you might need to replace the restoration part, the implant posts will stay in place.
Dental implants are one of the best tooth replacement options for patients with one or more missing teeth. If you suffer from pain and embarrassment because of missing teeth, implants can help.
Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX
The cost of dental implants depends on how many teeth are missing, the type of restoration needed, and any additional treatments. Not everyone can get implants right away. You need enough healthy bone and good oral health for implants to work.
Dr. Abazid recommends implants for patients who are healthy and have missing teeth, but might need some prep work first. If you’ve lost bone in your jaw, we might suggest bone grafting to build up the bone. This is important because implants need solid bone to stay in place. We can use bone from a donor or from another part of your mouth if needed.
If you have gum disease or cavities, Dr. Abazid will treat those issues first. Good oral health is essential for the success of dental implants.
Dr. Abazid will use digital X-rays to check your bone and decide where to place the implants. Once you’re ready, he will start the implant treatment.
Getting Dental Implants
Our dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They consist of safe materials that blend well with your jawbone to replace missing teeth.
To begin the treatment, we will numb your mouth to make sure you’re comfortable. Then, the oral surgeon will place the implant posts into your jawbone.
Over the next three to six months, your jawbone will grow around the implants, making them stable. After this healing period, Dr. Abazid will attach a metal piece called an abutment to connect your final tooth restoration to the implants. We take impressions of your mouth to create a custom-fit restoration, in a trusted dental lab. The lab will make crowns, bridges, or dentures that match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Post-Op Care for Dental Implants
After getting your implants, Dr. Abazid might give you antibiotics to prevent infection and pain medication to keep you comfortable. For the first 24 to 48 hours, eat soft foods to avoid stressing the implants.
Smoking or using tobacco can harm your implants and slow down healing. Nicotine restricts blood flow, which can make it harder for your implants to heal.
You might also get an infection called peri-implantitis, which can loosen the implants. To prevent this, clean your mouth well. Brush twice daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. You can also use a water flosser or traditional floss to clean between your teeth.
Keep up with regular dental check-ups so we can make sure everything is healthy and your restoration fits well. Contact us if you notice any changes in how your restoration feels.
What are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
Full mouth dental implants can replace all your missing teeth. An implant-supported denture can replace both upper and lower teeth. Unlike removable dentures, which might slip or cause gum problems, implant-supported dentures are more secure and comfortable.
You don’t need an implant for every missing tooth. With the All-on-Four method, we can use just four implants to support a whole set of teeth.
What is “Teeth-in-a-Day”?
Teeth-in-a-Day means you get a temporary restoration on the same day as your implant procedure. Dr. Abazid works with oral surgeons who can remove problem teeth, place implants, and fit a temporary restoration in one visit. You won’t have to wait without teeth, and you can smile confidently while healing.
Request A dental Implant Consultation
If you need to replace missing teeth, ask us about dental implants in San Antonio, TX. Call Smile Land Family Dental at 210-939-9689 or book an appointment online with Dr. Abazid.
We serve patients in Dreamhill Estates, Apple Creek, and Oak Hills. If you have questions about dental implants, we’re here to help you find the best solution for you.