Find Out If You’re A
Candidate For Dental Implants
"*" indicates required fields
Dental Implant Benefits
Dental implants are a great and long-lasting solution for those missing teeth. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they can help improve chewing ability and provide better oral health. Here are some more biggest benefits of getting dental implants:
01
Improved Appearance
Dental implants look and feel incredibly natural. They also help improve facial symmetry, giving you a more youthful appearance.
02
Durable & Reliable
Dental implants are designed to last for many years; with proper care, they will stay in place for decades without any issues.
03
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants can help restore the strength of your bite, making it easier to chew food and preventing other issues such as jaw pain or TMJ disorder from developing.
Why Dental Implants are The Best Treatment Option To Replace Missing Teeth
Statistics show that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth due to an accident, gum disease, periodontal disease, a failed root canal, or tooth decay. Furthermore, by age 74, 26% of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth. Twenty years ago, people had no other alternative except for a fixed bridge or removable denture to restore their ability to eat, speak clearly, and smile.
Implant Dentistry has revolutionized dentistry over the last 25 years, and we have changed hundreds of people’s lives with dental implants. The practice of implant dentistry requires an experienced dental professional team to provide patients with the very best care. Dr. Velasco has decades of experience with this consistently evolving dental surgery procedure. His special training and experience in prosthodontics allow him to quickly recognize the signs of dental implant failure and provide a solution. Dr. Velasco and our staff continue to advance our knowledge every time there is a new discovery in dental implants.
What Is Dental Implant Surgery?
A dental implant is a surgical procedure that replaces the root or roots of a tooth. Like tooth roots, implants are integrated into the jawbone to secure dental crowns (the parts of teeth seen in the mouth), bridgework, or dentures. Implants are made of titanium, which is lightweight, strong, biocompatible, and not rejected by the body. Titanium and titanium alloys are the most commonly used metals in both dental and other bone implants, such as orthopedic joints. Dental implants have proven to be highly successful when placed securely by specially trained dentists.
What to know about dental implants: they can improve your confidence and overall oral health.
Varieties of Dental Implants
Choosing the right type of Implant Dentistry is crucial for a successful and comfortable tooth replacement. The various types of dental implants have their own unique features and benefits.
Endosteal implants
- Most common type of Implant Dentistry
- Placed directly into the jawbone
- Screw or cylinder-shaped
- Provides a strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth
Subperiosteal implants
- Placed on top of the jawbone
- Metal framework sits beneath the gums
- Suitable for patients with minimal bone height or those who cannot wear dentures
Zygomatic implants
- Used when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw
- Anchored to the cheekbone (zygomatic bone)
- Stabilizes and supports dental restorations
Mini dental implants
- Smaller in size compared to traditional implants
- Less invasive procedure
- Suitable for patients with limited bone density or those who want immediate tooth replacement
All-on-4 dental implants
- Four implants strategically placed in the jawbone
- Provides a full set of teeth with minimal implant placement
- Suitable for patients with multiple missing teeth or edentulism
Choosing the right type of dental implant depends on various factors such as bone density, oral health, and individual preferences. Consulting with a qualified dentist is essential to determine the most suitable implant option for each patient.
Ideal Candidates for the Dental Implant Procedure
No matter the age of a person, there is a dental implantation solution for you, a single implant. This dental procedure is the ideal solution for people of all ages, even those with existing medical conditions, gum disease or problem teeth, currently wearing partials or dentures, smoking habits, or bone loss. Implant tooth replacement in children is usually deferred until jaw growth is complete. There are, however, some instances when a dental implant may be appropriate, such as when it is part of the child’s orthodontic treatment plan. Here are some benefits of this procedure
- Teeth in an HOUR
- Cosmetic Single Tooth Dental Implant Replacement
- Fixed Implant Dentures
- Removable Implant Dentures
- Full Mouth Reconstruction
Other dental factors to consider
The dental implant specialist will consider other oral health factors when determining a patient’s eligibility and will examine the health of your gums and teeth. Ideally, a candidate should have no untreated dental issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. If such issues are present, you will have to get these treated before proceeding with an implant procedure.
Another factor is whether the patient engages in frequent teeth clenching or grinding. Tooth loss is a common sign of these activities due to the stress placed on the teeth. Patients who grind their teeth are not the best candidates for implants. This is because implants can become damaged or cracked due to the pressure caused by teeth grinding/clenching. But still, these implants are resistant and can last many decades of use.
Even if you think that you may not be a good candidate for an implant procedure, you can schedule a consultation to get an idea of how the implants will look and any steps you can take to be a good candidate. Dental implant specialists can, in many cases, provide solutions for the issues that may otherwise prevent you from receiving implant treatment. Don’t hold yourself back from the many benefits of implants, such as their duration and natural-looking results.
Dental Implant Cost
The average cost of tooth implants, also known as teeth implants, typically fluctuates based on the intricacy of the case, the positioning of the implant, and other factors. Additional costs may include anesthesia, medications, oral surgery, and more. The best way to get an accurate estimate of your dental implant cost is to speak with a dental implant specialist who specializes in implant treatment as well as dental insurance coverage providers.
Depending on your health insurance plan, your insurance company may cover some or all of the costs related to dental services such as implant treatment. Check with your insurance provider before beginning your implant treatment or opting for a partial denture so that you are aware of any out-of-pocket expenses.
Dental Implant Possible Risks
Although dental implants in general can safely and effectively replace missing teeth, there are some risks associated with the procedure. For example, implant patients may experience swelling, bruising, soreness in the surgical area, and minor bleeding or oozing.
The patient may need additional procedures to ensure proper placement of the implants and avoid further complications. Additionally, infection can occur either during or after the implant surgery if the patient does not maintain proper hygiene throughout the implant journey. Therefore, implant patients must follow their doctor’s instructions and take good care of their oral health after they have undergone an implant placement surgery. Failure to do so could lead to further problems and even loss of the dental implants altogether.
When Dental Implants Are Needed
If you have failing or missing teeth, dental implants are the best teeth replacement option and are a permanent solution for missing teeth reason. They are constructed of titanium or titanium alloys and replace the root of a tooth. Once the oral surgeon places the implants, they will fuse to the jawbone through the process of osseointegration. The surgeon will then secure a durable zirconia crown that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth to the implant through a device called an abutment. Dental implants can restore a single tooth, numerous teeth, or even all teeth in the complete upper or lower jaw.
Dental Implants Recovery
The recovery process for dental implants is relatively straightforward. After the procedure, patients should rest and follow the instructions from their dentist or oral surgeon regarding pain relief medications, ice packs, and eating soft foods. It is important to care for your tooth implants properly during the healing process to ensure optimal health and successful osseointegration of the implant into the jawbone. This involves upholding proper oral hygiene by brushing two times daily, engaging in regular flossing, and arranging routine dental check-ups at your dental clinic. Eating healthy foods and keeping up with a consistent schedule of dental care will also help maintain healthy teeth and gums. With proper care, your dental implant can last for many years to come!
What Our Patients Have to Say
For 2 years I walked around with this horrible Brown front tooth. Afraid a dentist would make it worst or couldn’t match my two front teeth. I was in a wedding decided to give Dr. Velasco a try I couldn’t take picture with a brown tooth. Dr. Velasco and his staff were amazing. The first day of service Dr. Velasco said he would make my teeth beautiful for the wedding and that’s exactly what he did. Now I have a perfect smile I get so many compliments on my teeth. You can trust Dr. Velasco he will make your teeth beautiful!
Dental Implants FAQs
With appropriate positioning and attentive maintenance, dental implants remain functional for many years. Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: brush, floss, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups, so your implants will be fine over time.
Dental implants, which have been used for half a century, are safe and effective; however, as in any medical procedure, there can be a risk of complications. Choosing a knowledgeable, well-trained implant dentist will help minimize complications and ensure skillful handling of any problems, should they arise. Dr. Velasco and his team at Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry will review your health history and any habits which could affect the success of your future implants, and based on this, they will recommend special care for your complete treatment. Also ask any questions needed to your dentist and get deep learning about your implants.
There are several different types and levels of bone grafts. They are based on the severity and amount of bone that has been lost. Dr. Velasco and his team will carefully explain to you the type of bone graft you need and the possible success rates associated with your treatment. However, the success rate for bone grafts for the purpose of dental implants is very high. There is a small chance that a bone graft will fail, and the failure rate is higher in smokers and those with certain medical conditions. In the event of a failure, the failed graft will be removed, and a second graft can be attempted once the area has healed.
The price of dental implants varies on a case-by-case basis. Our patients can receive an accurate quote by scheduling and attending a free consultation. Uptown Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry also offers different dental financing options to fit everyone’s financial budget. We often tell people not to let the cost of dental implants hold them back from changing their lives. A healthier, happier, and more beautiful smile may be closer than you think.
Every dental plan is different, with different coverage options. Some will, and some will not cover implants. Once you schedule an initial consultation with our office, you will have the opportunity to provide us with your dental coverage information so that we may be able to verify your dental benefits to determine if there is any coverage for your services needed. Benefits given by an insurance representative are not a guarantee till a claim is processed.
The dental implant is a fixture that integrates into your jaw bone, they are fabricated of several different materials. The most widely known and accepted implants are manufactured of Titanium or a titanium alloy. There is a new type of dental implant manufactured of Zirconium, these implants are completely white and have a very specific use in dental treatments. The state-of-the-art technology that we have at Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry makes it possible for these implant-supported replacement teeth to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Since dental implants are completely biocompatible, it is perfectly safe, but sometimes it does not make sense to have too many implants placed. At Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Velasco and his team will develop a plan that best fits your needs. Yes, it is safe to have dental implants next to each other. There are many options available for teeth replacement. Our specialists will develop a plan that will best fit your needs.
Dental implants are sophisticated dental devices that must be placed carefully to minimize complications or implant failure. For the best results, it is important that you choose a dental implant expert who has the proper education, training, and competence in implant dentistry. Dr.Velasco is a prosthodontist who specializes in teeth restoration and replacement and will give you the highest level of success rate and customer satisfaction.
With the sedation techniques available at the time of treatment and helpful instructions for home care, many people report that they feel better than anticipated. Often, they return to work and daily activities the next day. While there may be some discomfort and bruising, with proper care, the recovery process typically lasts only a short time.
The entire dental implant process usually takes about two to nine months, depending on your treatment plan. There are two main phases: First, the implants have to heal by fusing to the bone, and then the tooth replacement restorations have to be fabricated and attached.
Depending on your treatment and the number of dental implants that you receive, the diet restrictions are different for every case. In some instances, there are no restrictions, and in other cases, there is the need to maintain a soft diet for some time. Dr. Velasco and his dental team will carefully put together your complete dental treatment and explain all post-operative instructions related to home care and diet specific to your individual case.
After you receive the final implant crown, you may resume eating normally. Your dental implant crown will look, feel and function better than the decayed and damaged teeth that have been replaced.
Yes! At Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we have multiple financing options available to fit every patient’s need allowing them to make monthly payment plans to the lender used to finance their plan.
Every case is different, but in general, placing one dental implant is always better than involving adjacent teeth that were otherwise perfectly healthy in making a bridge. There are many different opinions on this topic. From a dental health perspective, it is always better to be less invasive; a tooth implant is a more conservative treatment.
On every case you will always receive local anesthesia (injection) to numb the area in which the procedure will be done. On the other hand, depending on how big or long your procedure is you can chose one of three different levels of anesthesia. For patients that are very apprehensive, or just don’t want to be fully awake during the procedure, the first option is IV sedation (twilight sedation). This type of anesthesia is performed at Dr. Velasco’s office by a certified anesthesiologist ensuring a safe and pleasing experience. If you are the type of patient that just feels a little un-easy with the procedure to come, oral sedation can be your choice, or if you just want to be a little relaxed, Nitrous Oxide (NO2) can be safely administered in our office providing you with a very safe experience. In any case, here at Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Velasco and his team will put together a comprehensive treatment plan for you and will explain all your different options, including anesthesia.
Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation Today!
Interested in learning more about our cosmetic dentistry procedures? Call (713) 636-5325 to schedule your consultation today! Our practice serves Houston, Texas and nearby areas.
Dental Services
Quick Links