What are implants and how do they work?
Implants are essentially a titanium post that is placed in the bone to replace the root of a tooth that you had to lose. It's a great alternative if you're missing a tooth, to replace that tooth in the most conservative way. The implant anchors a new tooth into the bone, looks and chews and functions much like a natural tooth.
Who is a good candidate for implants?
Some people ask who's a good candidate for implants, and that's really anybody who has adequate remaining bone that wants the best option with the longest duration of time. As long as you don't have any contraindications for medical reasons or what have you, which are very few people, most people would qualify as a good candidate for dental implants.
What is the difference between a mini and a full implant?
What's the difference between a mini implant and a traditional normal implant? Mini implants are much smaller, thus the name mini. They are usually placed as a transitional type implant. If somebody is going to be having all their teeth replaced with a denture, for example, they want to have implants to support that denture. Sometimes while the implants are healing, the doctor might place mini implants to support the denture during that time period. Mixed reviews on mini implants, and that's why they've typically gone to more of a temporary type solution. Because of the small size and the amount of force that's placed on them, they typically have a higher failure rate. In our office, we use them more as a temporary solution rather than a long-term solution.
What is the process of having an implant from the beginning to placing one?
Okay. So the process of having an implant done from start to finish, obviously the bad tooth that can't be saved needs to be removed. Either at that time or at a future date, the implant is placed in the bone. That is usually allowed to heal for a few months, usually two or three months, before we attach a tooth to go on there permanently. If you include the extractions, there are really three steps. Take the tooth out, place the implant, and then attach a tooth to that implant.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can actually last your entire lifetime. We quote studies in dentistry when we're talking about how long things last. The most recent large studies show that implants last 95% to 96% of the time, at least 10 years. It's hard to track implants longer than a large group of people for longer than 10 years. But chances are, if you can keep your implant for 10 years, 98% of people do, you'll keep that implant your whole life. There's a few maintenance requirements that we teach you how to clean around an implant to keep the gum healthy. Keep the gum healthy. Keep your implant your whole life.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium screws that are implanted or put into the bone to simulate the root of a lost tooth. It gives us something to attach a new tooth to replace the one you lost.
Why would I need a dental implant?
There are several reasons why you might need a dental implant. You may have lost a tooth due to a large cavity or gum disease, or perhaps an existing bridge has failed. Other reasons could include bone loss due to gum disease, teeth grinding, or a tooth splitting right down the middle. If you're missing several teeth due to decay, gum disease, or neglect, dental implants could be a solution for you if you're not open to removable options such as dentures.
What are dentures?
Dentures are a replacement solution for someone who is missing all their teeth or who will soon be missing all their teeth. Dentures are a piece of plastic with teeth on it that covers the roof of your mouth. However, they can cause discomfort and may limit the types of food you can eat. Over time, they can also result in a decline of the jawbone.
What are the advantages of a dental implant compared to other solutions?
One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they stimulate the bone, which helps prevent it from dissolving away over time. Dental implants also allow you to floss and clean around them like you would a natural tooth. They reduce the worry about pressure or pain from chewing, allowing you to eat anything you want.
Can I just take the tooth out and leave it?
While some people choose to do this, it's not advised. Teeth naturally want to be in contact with other teeth, so if a tooth is removed, the remaining teeth may lean or drop down, causing various problems such as food impaction, decay, bone loss, and bite problems.
What's the process for getting a dental implant?
The process for getting a dental implant typically takes seven to eight months. First, the tooth is extracted and we usually grow bone in the hole where the tooth was. After a few months, we put the implant in the bone. In another three months or so, you have a tooth.
How long do implants last?
Implants can last your whole life if properly cared for. Studies show a 95% success rate over 10 years, meaning only 5% of people lose their implant after a decade. Just like with natural teeth, you need to take responsibility for brushing and flossing to ensure the longevity of the implant.
Dental Implants
Change Your Life with Implants
- Replace one or many teeth with our implant options. You’ll enjoy the feel and function of a strong bite and better
jawbone health. - Rely on a dentist with over 26 years of experience treating patients. He focuses on building quality relationships with patients, so you can trust his care.
- You won’t need to see another doctor for any part of your procedure. Dr. Hardcastle places and restores implants and offers advanced options like Hybrid treatment.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants in Dallas
If you are missing teeth, life isn’t quite the same anymore. You can’t enjoy your favorite meals as you used to, and you probably feel embarrassed about showing your smile. With our dental implants in Dallas, you’ll find a solution that will give you back what you’ve been missing. This procedure will:
- Restore chewing power similar to natural teeth
- Secure dentures without slippery adhesive
- Protect your oral health and improve jawbone health
- Make you look younger and healthier
- Allow you to eat what you want again
- Give you a boost in confidence
We’d love to show you how implants can transform your life. Call (972) 992-5223 for an appointment. You can save money on implants by joining our VIP Club.
Discover a Long-Term Solution With an Implant Procedure
We know how important your smile is to you. It’s what people notice about you first, and it’s often part of the lasting impression you leave on others. Acting as artificial tooth roots, implants will restore the strength of your teeth and give you a lifelong foundation for your new smile. Dr. Hardcastle will work with you on identifying your best implant option, according to your oral health and personal needs.
He may recommend:
- A Single Crown With an Implant – If you’ve lost a single tooth, we can replace it with a porcelain crown that will blend in naturally with your smile.
- Implant-Supported Bridge – Instead of anchoring a bridge to healthy teeth, we can use implants to support it instead. It’s a great way to replace several missing teeth in a row.
- Implant-Supported Dentures – Keep your dentures in place with implants. You’ll have a more secure set of teeth and be able to enjoy the crunchy foods you’ve been avoiding. Best of all, no more adhesive!
- Hybrid Implants – Restore your smile with an implant procedure that uses fewer implants to replace a full arch of teeth. It takes less time, so you can have your new smile in weeks rather than months.
- All-on-6 Implants – We can use six implants to replace your missing teeth and secure your new smile for better oral function.
- Full Mouth Reconstruction – When you need to rebuild your smile, whether it’s due to severe disease or tooth loss, we’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that uses implants to restore your best feature.
There’s no reason to be nervous about implant treatment. We have dental sedation through laughing gas that gives you a sense of calm. Or you can choose oral sedation with a small pill to take before your appointment. If you choose oral sedation, you’ll need to arrange for a ride home.
In addition, we offer amenities to help you feel comfortable. You can cozy up with a warm towel, blanket, or pillow. You can even watch TV to distract yourself during the appointment. We don’t mind!
If you’re ready for a fully functioning smile with dental implants in Dallas, call (972) 992-5223 for an appointment. You can also request an appointment online.
We Use Technology to Plan Your Successful Implant Procedure
Technology not only makes your appointments quicker, it also makes treatments less stressful. Plus, we use state-of-the-art equipment to plan procedures like dental implants. Some of the technology we use includes:
- Digital X-rays – We prefer digital X-rays because they use 90 percent less radiation compared to traditional X-ray equipment. Since it’s faster, you’ll spend less time in the dentist’s chair.
- Intraoral Camera – They say a picture is worth a thousand words. With this tiny handheld wand camera, Dr. Hardcastle can show you the inside of your mouth so you know why we’re suggesting certain treatments.
- 3-D Imaging – When we’re planning implants, we need a complete view of your bone health and mouth to plan your procedure. This 3-D technology scans your entire mouth to ensure the success of your procedure.
- Soft Tissue Lasers – Whether we are reshaping your gumline or treating gum disease, this laser technology means faster healing and quicker procedures.
By combining modern technology with up-to-date patient treatment techniques, your experience with us will exceed your expectations. Call (972) 992-5223 today to schedule your consultation to learn more about dental implants in Dallas.