DENTAL IMPLANTS
Until recently, the only solutions dentists had for a missing tooth or teeth were bridges or some form of partial or full denture. For the patient, these options were less than ideal and often created other dental issues—like hygiene concerns, denture slippage (or falling out), loss of regular chewing ability, jaw bone atrophy, etc.
Things have changed—dramatically. The advancement of dental implant technology has enabled today’s best dentists to replace a natural tooth root with an implant made of a special alloy that effectively fuses with the jawbone. A beautiful and permanent restoration (crown or denture) can then be affixed to the implant. The result? A smile just as comfortable and capable as what nature produces.
Choose M.I. Dental Designs in San Antonio to make sure your dental implant is placed the right way the first time.
THE DRAWBACKS OF YESTERYEAR’S DENTISTRY
Healthy teeth are not just for appearances. They play a crucial role in your overall well-being. This is why in almost every case, it is always better to keep natural tooth structure. Crowns, inlays, onlays, and fillings are fantastic when that natural tooth root can be preserved.
In the past, when a tooth was lost it often signaled the demise of a person’s oral health and eventually overall health. Following is a brief explanation of the major issues with bridges and traditional dentures:
HYGIENE: The spaces between the prosthetic and natural teeth are prone to ensnaring food particles, leading to plaque accumulation, and consequently elevating the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
DENTURE SLIPPAGE: Traditional dentures lack secure anchorage beyond suction or adhesives, which leads to them slipping or falling out completely.
LOSS OF CHEWING: Because of the lack of stability chewing became a difficult task and some food items were removed permanently from the menu.
JAWBONE ATROPHY: Traditional dentures fail to stimulate the jawbone adequately, leading to resorption and atrophy due to the absence of natural tooth roots. This leads to the sagging cheeks associated with dentures.
Whether replacing a single tooth or an entire arch, Dr. Imam’s expertise and advanced training from the KOIS Center ensure exceptional results. Dental implants at M.I. Dental Designs restore not just your smile, but a piece of yourself.
WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS ARE SO DESIRABLE
Top-quality dental implants, placed by an experienced implant dentist like Dr. Imam, essentially eliminate all of the dangers and inconveniences of traditional bridges and dentures. This is because dental implants are securely and permanently anchored into the jawbone, mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth.
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Dental implants do not require alteration of adjacent teeth, allowing for easier maintenance and reducing plaque accumulation.
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Unlike dentures, implants are firmly anchored in the jawbone, preventing inconvenient slippage.
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Implants can withstand the tremendous forces involved in biting and chewing—enabling you to enjoy the same foods you always have.
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By stimulating the jawbone like a natural tooth root does, implants prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure.
Dental implants represent the best comprehensive and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. Choose dental implants from M.I. Dental Designs to optimize your oral health and quality of life.
THE EXAMPLE OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
BEFORE
AFTER
If you are interested in enhancing your smile with dental implants and improving your overall health, call us or book your consultation
THE DENTAL IMPLANT PROCESS
We leverage digital smile design technology to show you what your smile will look like before we ever start treatment.
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Begin with a thorough examination and discuss potential solutions to finalize a personalized treatment plan.
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Make a small, precise opening through your gums and bone to prepare for implant placement.
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Gently insert the implant, place the abutment, and close the surgical site, providing a temporary crown or denture.
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Allow a healing time of three to four months for the implant to integrate with the bone before the final restoration.
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Place your final crown or denture, completing the process and restoring full functionality and aesthetics to your smile.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR IMPLANTS
Tooth Implant
Typically fashioned from titanium, this screw-shaped component is surgically placed into the jawbone. It serves as a robust foundation, mimicking the strength and stability of a natural tooth root. Over time, it integrates with the bone, a process known as osseointegration, providing unparalleled durability.
Abutment
This crucial intermediary piece connects the artificial root to the dental crown. The abutment ensures a seamless transition and secure fit between the implant and the crown and functions as a sturdy anchor.
Dental Crown
Custom-designed to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, the crown is the visible part of the implant. It’s crafted from high-grade dental materials that reflect the light and texture of natural enamel, ensuring our patients’ smiles are functionally competent and aesthetically pleasing.
FREQUENTLY ASKED DENTAL IMPLANTS QUESTIONS
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Dental implants are widely recognized as a safe and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. As a practitioner dedicated to the highest standards of care, Dr. Imam ensures that every implant procedure at M.I. Dental Designs is performed with meticulous precision and attention to detail.
We use biocompatible materials, typically titanium, which are well-tolerated by the body and have a proven track record for safety and durability. Moreover, the procedure itself is conducted under strict sterilization protocols to minimize any risk of infection.
While any surgical procedure carries inherent risks, the success rate of dental implants is remarkably high, making them a reliable choice for tooth restoration.
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Good candidates for dental implants have the following characteristics:
Sufficient Bone Health: A good candidate for dental implants is typically someone with good overall health and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.
Good Oral Health: Ideal candidates should have healthy gums and be free from conditions that may impede bone healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain heart diseases.
Diligent Oral Hygiene Routine: It’s also crucial for the candidate to be committed to good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits.
Tobacco- & Nicotine-Free: Smokers or those with chronic disorders, such as diabetes or heart disease, may still be eligible for implants, but these factors may necessitate additional evaluation and consideration.
Each patient’s situation is unique, so Dr. Imam always conducts a thorough assessment to determine the most suitable treatment plan. At M.I. Dental Designs, we prioritize not only the aesthetic outcomes but also the long-term health and functionality of the implants for our patients.
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Dental implants, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. Their longevity is enhanced by good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts ten to fifteen years before it may need replacement due to wear and tear.
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Dental implant procedures with M.I. Dental Designs are painless. For the dental implant procedure, we offer three types of sedation—nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation—to ensure a pain-free and relaxed experience.
Each option caters to different levels of patient anxiety and procedural requirements, allowing us to tailor the sedation to your specific needs. This approach ensures that you remain comfortable and anxiety-free throughout the procedure.
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Caring for your dental implants involves a routine similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended to avoid scratching the surface of the implants. It’s also important to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings at M.I. Dental Designs to ensure the health of your implants and surrounding gums.
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