Dental Implants in Fort Worth, TX

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants are artificial tooth roots that can support fixed restorations such as a crown or bridge. Your body will treat them as natural teeth due to their biocompatible design.

The implant’s shape is similar to a natural tooth root and can be placed alongside your natural teeth. Implants are strong enough to be used in pairs to support multiple-tooth prosthetics.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Missing teeth can have a profound impact on your life. Tooth loss can have devastating and lasting consequences on your appearance, oral health, and overall health.

What happens if missing teeth aren’t replaced?

• Could experience bone loss over time
• Exposed gum tissue can increase the chance of developing an infection.
• It is possible for the surrounding teeth to shift or move out of their place.
• Could experience chronic pain
• Inability to chew foods could lead to malnutrition

Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement solutions, offering a durable and aesthetic alternative to traditional dentures and bridges. Here’s why our patients love them:

Natural Appearance and Comfort

Dental implants are designed to mimic the natural structure of your teeth, offering not just the appearance but the feel and function of a healthy, natural tooth.

Durability and Reliability

With the proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are made from robust, biocompatible materials such as titanium and porcelain, ensuring reliability and longevity.

Improved Oral Health

Dental implants support jaw health by preventing bone loss, a common issue following tooth loss. Plus, they don’t require altering neighboring healthy teeth, thereby preserving your overall oral health.

Enhanced Quality of Life

With dental implants, you can talk, eat, and laugh without worry. Say goodbye to denture adhesives and the inconvenience of removable dentures.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Why Dental implants are a better option than traditional tooth replacement methods:

• Built to last a lifetime
• Non-invasive to adjacent teeth
• Restore as many or as few teeth as you need
• Highly predictable
• More durable than natural teeth
• Beneficial to the overall function of your mouth
• Supportive of your natural facial profile

Who Should Get Dental Implants?

Dental implants can be a transformative solution for a variety of individuals who experience tooth loss or severe dental decay. However, specific factors can determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants:

Missing Teeth

If you are missing one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or disease, dental implants can be an excellent option for you. They not only restore the aesthetic of your smile but also prevent potential future oral health issues such as shifting teeth and bone loss.

Denture Discomfort

For individuals who are dissatisfied with their dentures — whether due to discomfort, poor fit, or the inconvenience of removing and cleaning them — dental implants provide a permanent and more comfortable alternative.

Adequate Oral Health

Ideal candidates for dental implants should be free from periodontal disease and have sufficient bone density to support the implant. However, even if there is bone loss, options such as bone grafts can potentially make dental implants viable.

Good General Health

Overall health also plays a role in the success of dental implants. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, or heart disease, and habits such as smoking can impact healing and the success of the implant.

Remember, Dr. Lala will conduct a thorough evaluation during your initial consultation to determine your suitability for dental implants.

Dental Implant Preparation

A jawbone graft is recommended for patients who are seeking dental implant placement and have insufficient jawbone structure due to prolonged tooth loss, severe gum disease, or other factors. A bone graft is a procedure that strengthens the jawbone using a surgical graft. This will provide additional bone structure for your dental implant(s).

The Dental Implants Process at Centreport Smiles

Dr. Lala and her team at Centreport Smiles ensure each step of the dental implant process is performed with precision, patience, and your comfort in mind. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation

Your journey to a revitalized smile starts with an in-depth consultation. Dr. Lala will discuss your needs, evaluate your oral health, and review your medical history to determine your suitability for dental implants.

Planning and Preparatory Work

Next, Dr. Lala will conduct a thorough examination using advanced dental imaging technology. This ensures accurate placement of the implants and may involve preparatory procedures such as bone grafting, if necessary.

Implant Placement

During the implant placement procedure, Dr. Lala will carefully place the implant into your jawbone. Local anesthesia ensures comfort throughout the process.

Healing and Osseointegration

After implant placement, a healing period is necessary for the implant to fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration.

Abutment and Crown Placement

Once healed, an abutment (a connector piece) is attached to the implant. Finally, a custom-made crown is placed on the abutment, completing your smile transformation.

How to Care for Your Dental Implants

Dental implants may replicate the function and aesthetics of natural teeth, but it’s important to remember they still require conscientious care. Here’s how you can ensure their longevity:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Just like your natural teeth, dental implants should be brushed at least twice a day. Flossing daily is also crucial to remove any food particles or plaque around the implant.

Use the Right Tools

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the implant. Interdental brushes can also help clean hard-to-reach areas.

Avoid Damaging Habits

Avoid habits that can damage your dental implants such as chewing on hard items (like ice or hard candy), using your teeth to open packages, or grinding and clenching your teeth.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular check-ups with Dr. Lala are crucial in maintaining the health of your dental implants. These appointments allow for professional cleanings and early detection of any potential issues.

Remember, while dental implants are designed to be long-lasting, their lifespan can be significantly impacted by how well they are cared for. Adopting a meticulous oral care routine will go a long way in maintaining the health and aesthetics of your dental implants.

FAQ on Dental Implants in Fort Worth, TX

1. How long does the dental implant process take?

The total process can take several months, primarily due to the healing period required for osseointegration. However, each patient’s case is unique and Dr. Lala will provide a more precise timeline during your consultation.

2. Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure comfort. Post-operative discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and subsides within a few days.

3. Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Ideal candidates for dental implants have good oral health and sufficient bone density in the jaw. However, even if you have bone loss, preparatory procedures like bone grafts may make implants a viable option.

4. How do I care for my dental implants?

Dental implants should be cared for just like your natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups will help ensure their longevity.

5. Will dental implants affect my speech?

Unlike dentures, dental implants are fixed and do not slip, so they should not affect your speech once you’ve adjusted to them.

6. Can dental implants fail?

While rare, dental implants can fail due to infection, lack of osseointegration, or overloading. However, with careful planning, precise placement, and proper care, the success rate is very high.

7. Do dental implants look natural?

Absolutely. Dental implants are designed to mimic the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth. Your new teeth will be indistinguishable from your natural ones.

8. Is the cost of dental implants covered by insurance?

Some insurance plans cover part of the cost of dental implants. It’s best to check with your provider. Our team at Centreport Smiles is happy to assist with your insurance queries. We also have various financing options available.

Begin Your Smile Transformation Today

Discover the difference dental implants in Fort Worth, TX can make in your life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lala at Centreport Smiles and start your journey towards a healthier, more confident smile. We look forward to rejuvenating your smile!

We are proud to serve Euless, Fort Worth, Arlington, Irving, Bedford, and surrounding communities.