We understand that you may have questions about dental implants. Diamond Dental Family and Implant Dentistry has compiled answers to some of the questions we are asked most often. If you have further questions, or to make an appointment with Dr. Tom Supakorndej, please call our office at 512-351-9313.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small but strong clinically-supported device made of titanium or titanium-zirconium, which is inserted into the jaw bone in place of a missing tooth root. An implant acts as support for an artificial tooth crown or bridge, and is surgically placed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.

A missing tooth or teeth can take away from the smile that’s really you, but tooth loss can have many negative effects on your oral health, including:

• Bone loss
• Shifting and drifting teeth
• Bite changes and chewing difficulty
• Wearing down of remaining teeth
• Changes in the jaw joint

Why dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth:

• • Bone grows and bonds to the implant surface. A dental implant is simply an artificial root that merges with your bone and acts likes a natural tooth root.

 

• • Maintains adjacent natural teeth. Unlike bridges, a dental implant replaces a natural tooth root. This does not require that adjacent natural teeth be ground down to provide support. Thus, your remaining teeth stay intact.

 

• • Preserves jaw bone and facial structure. Implants transmit chewing forces to the jaw bone, which helps maintain bone and facial structure. If tooth roots are missing, these forces cease, and the bone may slowly recede. This causes shifting of teeth and facial shape changes.

 

• • Maintains adjacent natural teeth. Unlike bridges, a dental implant replaces a natural tooth root. It does not require that adjacent natural teeth be ground down to provide support, so your remaining teeth stay intact.

 

Why do people choose dental implants?

Implants are the most natural-looking and feeling replacement for your missing teeth. They do not slip or click when speaking or chewing, and help to maintain your jawbone so that you can have greater confidence in your day-to-day activities and in social situations.

Can any dentist provide a dental implant?

Dental implants require precise placement to avoid complications or failure of the restoration. For the best results, you should choose a dentist that has received the proper education and training in implant dentistry.

Are there any disadvantages to dental implants?

Like any oral surgery, there is a risk of infection, inflammation, and pain. Our dentist will discuss these risks and how they can be managed during your initial consultation and any subsequent appointments. You may also require a bone or gum grafting procedure before you can receive implants, which can increase the cost of your treatment.

What is the success rate of implants?

Success varies between individuals and with health and habits. For a healthy individual with good oral hygiene and good overall health, success rates are reported at or above 90-95%.

To learn more about the benefits of implant dentistry in Austin, Texas, and schedule your consultation with our dentist, contact our practice today.