Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants in Arlington, TX

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts designed to replace missing tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for attaching lifelike crowns that mimic natural teeth. This innovative solution stands as the preferred choice for tooth replacement due to its popularity and effectiveness in restoring oral function and aesthetics. Our quality dental implants in Arlington, TX, are permanent and function just like natural teeth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants involve a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Following this, a porcelain crown crafted to resemble a natural tooth is securely attached to the dental implant abutment. Functionally indistinguishable from a natural tooth, the artificial replacement restores both appearance and functionality, seamlessly integrating into the patient’s smile.

Dental implants consist of three main components: the implant post, abutment, and restoration.

• The implant post, typically made of biocompatible titanium, is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a sturdy foundation.
• Following osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone, an abutment is attached to the post, protruding above the gum line.
• Finally, a custom-made restoration, such as a porcelain crown, is affixed to the abutment, meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth, completing the functional and aesthetic restoration.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer several advantages over alternative restorative techniques, making them a superior choice for many patients with missing teeth.

• Unlike removable dentures, which can be cumbersome and may require frequent adjustments, dental implants provide a permanent solution that feels and functions like natural teeth.
• Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure over time, which is not possible with traditional dentures.
• They offer improved stability and comfort, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile confidently without worrying about slippage or discomfort commonly associated with dentures.

Overall, dental implants provide a long-lasting, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth, enhancing both oral health and quality of life for patients. Our implant dentist in Arlington will discuss your tooth-replacement needs and recommend the best treatment plan for you.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Implant technology has continued to advance and is now ultimately the best treatment for tooth replacement. Modern implant dentistry makes it possible to potentially have dental implants even if you don’t have adequate jaw bone or are suffering from other medical conditions. This is, however, dependent on your unique situation and will need to be evaluated and discussed with our specialist. 

Implants are the ideal tooth-replacement solution due to benefits such as:

• They behave and act exactly like natural teeth.
• They can last a lifetime if they are taken care of properly.
• Dental Implants prevent bone loss.
• They protect adjacent teeth.
• Implants can prevent premature aging and facial sagging.
• Dental implants immensely improve confidence.
• You can laugh, talk, and eat as you did with your normal teeth
• Dental implants can help maintain healthy gums and prevent disease.
• Dental implants are easy to maintain
• If placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist, dental implants have a success rate of 95-98%.
• Implants allow your mouth to function normally again.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Arlington, TX?

Prices for dental implants vary depending on your individual situation. A single-tooth implant can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000.

Multiple dental implants might be necessary. In this case, the cost of each tooth may be lower because some costs are only applied once. An implant-supported three- or four-tooth dental bridge can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. Full-mouth dental implant costs can reach up to $35,000 and more.

Call our dental office in Arlington, TX, for more information on dental implant costs. Our team will gladly answer all your questions.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Your cosmetic dentist will do all they can to ensure that you qualify for the dental implant procedure. During your evaluation, Dr. Hinkle will look for certain traits, such as:

• Your jaw bone density
• Your oral hygiene habits
• Your overall health and any pre-existing conditions
• The health of your gums

These are just a few patients that may not be eligible for dental implants:

• Smokers
• Anybody with any kind of medical condition that can affect bone mass
• People who are generally unwell
• Patients whose jaws are too small for implants

Before you can decide if dental implants are right for you, it is important to see our implant dentist in Arlington. Our team will be able to determine your eligibility after a consultation. They will answer all your questions and do all they can to help you get your smile back!

What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Implants?

Just as with any dental procedure, there are always potential risks. Depending on the case, here are some possible disadvantages of dental implants.

• Implants can be more costly upfront than other options for tooth restoration. Implants are more costly upfront in comparison to bridges and dentures, but the long-term cost of implants is lower since they are permanent. Dentures need to be replaced every few years, which adds up quite a bit financially.
• Multiple appointments may be necessary.  It depends on your bone growth rate and the type of implant treatment you need. You may need to return several times before the dental implants can permanently be fixed.
• Dental implant placement requires minor operations on the gum and jaw, whereas other tooth replacement options do not. The procedure will require either a general or local anesthetic.
• Even though dental implants are extremely successful, there is still the risk of complications such as damage to teeth, blood vessels, and nerves, gum infections, and sinus problems. These risks can be reduced by selecting a highly-trained cosmetic dentist like ours here at Pecan Park Dental.

Our doctor will be happy to consult with you about any possible risks associated with dental implants.

What Is the Dental Implants Procedure?

Dental implants can require several surgical procedures depending on your unique case. After a thorough examination, our cosmetic dentist will walk you through the steps necessary for your treatment.

Our doctor will review your medical history to create a personalized treatment plan. Dental implant surgery is usually performed in an outpatient setting to allow for healing between procedures. These are the steps for the dental implant procedure.

• The tooth that is broken or damaged will be removed
• If required, jawbone grafting will take place
• Surgical placement of the post
• Bone healing and growth
• Placement of an abutment
• Attachment of an artificial tooth

Can Implants Be Done in One Day?

A single procedure for same-day dental implants can be done in 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the case and how many implants are needed. While you won’t be able to have your permanent teeth placed, you can have a complete smile with your temporaries. That’s why this is often called “Teeth In A Day.”

Is The Procedure Painful?

The procedure for dental implants is not painful as you will be under anesthesia. As for the type of anesthesia, most dental implant procedures can be performed under local anesthesia. Patients with certain medical conditions may require conscious or general sedation.

For more information and to schedule a consultation, call our cosmetic dentist in Arlington, TX.

Alternative Tooth Replacement Solutions

Our doctors can advise you on the alternatives for dental implants if you are not eligible. These are some other options for teeth replacement:

• Implant-supported bridge
• Flippers
• Bridges made from resin-bonded materials
• Full dentures
• Partial dentures
• Implant-supported dentures
• Dental bridges

How do I care for my prosthetic teeth?

Proper oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of dental implants and restorations. To clean dental implants and restorations effectively, brush your teeth at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Pay close attention to the area around the implant and restoration, ensuring thorough removal of plaque and food particles. Floss daily, using dental floss or interdental brushes, to clean between teeth and around the implant post. Additionally, consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and plaque buildup.

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also essential to monitor the health of your implants and ensure any issues are addressed promptly.

Get Started On Your Journey to a New Smile!

Contact us today for more information about dental implants in Arlington. Our friendly, knowledgeable, and compassionate team will be happy to help you.

We look forward to getting to know you and being a part of your smile journey!