In the last 20 years, dental implants have been able to successfully replace a missing tooth to complete and enhance a smile. However, in recent years, dental implant technology has advanced, making it possible to replace more than one tooth with dental implants. This is likely because they can now anchor a dental bridge or dentures.
To begin treatment, Dr. Jason Roe will take a series of X-rays of the areas that need the implants. Generally, when replacing more than one tooth, multiple areas need dental implants. With the help of the X-rays, he will know how much available bone structure you have underneath the gums. This is important because sometimes gum disease and tooth decay deteriorate the underlying bone and make it hard to support a dental implant. If this is the case for you, your dentist might recommend a bone graft treatment.
Placing the implants is usually performed on an outpatient basis and usually requires deep sedation. This means Dr. Roe will refer you to an oral surgeon to have your implant posts placed. At that appointment, you will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after the treatment.
The oral surgeon will create a channel in the underlying bone during your appointment and will place a titanium abutment in that channel. If you are replacing more than one tooth, your surgeon will do the same in another part of your mouth. For dentures, this step can be repeated four to six times.
Once the titanium posts fuse to the underlying bone, Dr. Roe will create a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture that is right for you. Once it’s created, he will secure it on top of the abutment(s). This will give you a full and beautiful smile!
If you have any questions about dental implants in Dallas, Texas, or if you would like to see if this treatment is right for your smile, please call 972-931-1777 today to schedule an appointment. You can also schedule online by clicking here. We invite you to learn more about dental implants by clicking here.