Ask Dr. Shatto: Dental Implants Edition [BLOG]
Millions of Americans suffer through each year without a complete set of teeth. This is an issue that can negatively affect a patient’s health, appearance, confidence, quality of life and more. If you have experienced adult tooth loss, you are probably less than excited about summer cookouts and other seasonal gatherings where folks are smiling, engaging in friendly conversation, eating corn on the cob and steaks off the grill, and so forth. We want you to know that we can help bring the excitement back with dental implants. Keep reading to see a few of the commonly asked questions we’ve answered at our Dallas, TX area dentist’s office, then call us at 214-340-4965 to begin your own transformative journey at American Family Dental.
What Exactly Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small rods, typically made of titanium, that resemble a screw. They are surgically inserted into your jaw and attached to replacement teeth to create a strong and stunning new smile.
Once implants have been inserted, they immediately begin to merge with the bone in your jaw and act as the roots of your teeth, which ensure that you don’t fall prey to bone and gum tissue loss.
Is The Surgery Painful?
No. Even if you are especially sensitive, we will do everything possible to make it a pain-free and pleasant experience for you. It really is an easy process with us because our team will help you determine which form of sedation dentistry will work best for you, given your anxiety level, the particular procedure, your medical history, and other factors. Dental sedation is great for soothing dental anxiety during procedures like placement of dental implants.
What Kind Of Implants Are Available?
A dental implant procedure can replace anywhere from one tooth to a whole mouthful of teeth. They can be restored with a crown , a bridge , or with modern dentures . So, you’ll have options. The best part is that Dr. Shatto can both place and restore implants in our office for less complicated cases like a single tooth implant. For more complex procedures such as full-mouth dental implants, he’ll refer you to a trusted local oral surgeon for implant placement and then restore the implants right here in our comfortable office.
Will These Replacements Feel Like Actual Teeth?
Absolutely! Our implants are crafted to feel like your natural teeth. The artificial tooth, or crown, is custom-made to fit your mouth. It will be the right size, shape, and color to blend in with the rest of your teeth. You will get used to them in no time.
Do Dental Implants Last Forever?
Our dental implants are designed to last for many years, maybe even a lifetime, but they will require some maintenance, just like your real teeth. We’ll be here to help you maintain that gorgeous grin along the way.
Are Implants The Right Choice For Me?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. We can tell you that the best-suited candidates for dental implant surgery are folks who are in good health overall. Your jaw bone must also be thick and tall enough to support the implant. We will explore your tooth replacement options in greater detail when you are here for your preliminary examination.
When Can I Get Started?
We are ready when you are! All you have to do now is call American Family Dental in Dallas, TX at 214-340-4965 or fill out our online form to schedule that first dental implants consultation appointment.