Dental Implants

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically positioned into the jawbone. It is designed to mimic a tooth root and support tooth replacements that look and function like natural teeth. When in place, the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Dental implants can be used to support a bridge, crown, or denture. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

A dental implant is a medical-grade titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to support one or more artificial teeth such as dental crowns or bridgework. The “root” portion of the implant fuses with the surrounding bone, creating a stable foundation for the restoration above. The metal implant is designed to mimic the function of a natural tooth root and an abutment is typically used to connect the implant to the restoration.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants? 

When you lose a tooth, bone loss can occur in the area where the tooth used to be. The jawbone can start to deteriorate because there is no tooth root to stimulate new bone growth. This can cause your cheeks and lips to appear sunken. Dental implants can help prevent this from occurring by replacing the tooth’s roots. As they fuse with the jawbone, the implants provide the necessary stimulation for natural bone growth and prevent any further deterioration. 

Another advantage of dental implants is their durability. With proper maintenance, they can last a lifetime. In addition, the success rate for implants is more than 95 percent! Implants are made from titanium, which is biocompatible with the body, so you do not have to worry about your body rejecting the implant. Also, because implants will never decay, you never have to worry about cavities forming around the crown part of your implant.

You also do not need to worry about your adjacent teeth shifting when you replace missing teeth with an implant-supported restoration. The only thing you have to keep in mind is to stick to a strict oral hygiene routine. You will need to brush twice a day, floss once per day, and maintain regular appointments at our office for cleanings and exams. 

In short, the benefits offered by dental implants are the following: 

• They look, feel, and function like real teeth 
• They can replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth 
• They provide stability that allows you to eat, speak, and smile naturally 
• They can support a bridge or denture, keeping them in place
• They help maintain the shape of your face and smile 
• They are a long-term solution for tooth loss 

To learn more about our dental services or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Russell, call Russell Family Dentistry at (281) 351-5458 or visit us at 29210 Quinn Road, Tomball, TX 77375.