Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular option for men and women missing one or more natural teeth, offering results that feel and look more comfortable and secure than bridges or dentures. Gunda Gayathri, DDS, and her team of dental professionals at Trinity Dental Care in Bedford, Texas, are leading providers of durable, attractive, state-of-the-art dental implants. If you're missing one or more teeth, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic that’s used to replace a missing tooth. The implant itself is a metal post made of the same type of metal that’s used to create artificial joints. The post is implanted into the jaw bone where it serves as an artificial root, securing a strong dental crown designed to look and feel just like a natural tooth.

Implants are far more secure than dentures or bridges. They can help prevent bone resorption following tooth loss that can lead to additional tooth loss in the future.

What happens during a dental implant procedure?

Dental implants usually require two or three separate visits. Once the patient is considered a suitable candidate for an implant, an impression is made and sent to a lab where the implant crown will be constructed.

The metal post is implanted into the jaw bone during a procedure that’s usually performed using sedation. The metal post requires a certain amount of jaw bone to ensure stability. If the jaw bone is too thin, a bone graft procedure may need to be performed to augment the existing bone.

Once the implant post is in place, several weeks will pass before the second appointment. During this time, the post will fuse with the natural bone tissue, a process called osseointegration. Once the post has fused with the jaw bone, the patient will return to the office, and the crown will be attached using a special piece called an abutment. The crown will be skillfully shaped and tinted to blend in with the surrounding teeth, so it looks completely natural.

How should I care for my implant?

Implants can be cared for just like natural teeth, with regular flossing and brushing and twice-yearly dental checkups to ensure the gums surrounding the implant remain healthy. Although the tooth itself cannot decay, the gums can still become infected. As with a natural tooth and root, gum disease can weaken the bone surrounding the metal post. Consequently, checkups and cleanings are essential to prevent gum disease and ensure the longevity of your implant.

If you're ready to replace your missing tooth with a dental implant, call Trinity Dental Care or request an appointment using the online booking tool.