Dental Implants in Texarkana, TX
Implant Benefits | Dental Implant Process | Types of Implants | Dental Implant FAQs
Dental implants are dental prosthetics designed, fabricated, and placed to replace missing teeth. The term “dental implants” is typically referred to the entire restoration. However, the implant itself is actually the titanium or zirconia post or screw that is surgically placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. The tooth restoration, which may be a crown, bridge, or full arch of replacement teeth resembling a denture, is then attached to the implant.
Teeth implants and their restorations are the only solution for missing teeth that is considered permanent, as the implants in the jawbone can last 30 years or longer and often last a lifetime. The restorations of the visible portion of the tooth may last 20 years or more, and if broken or damaged, can usually be repaired without disturbing the implant to which it is attached.
“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”
For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Better Oral Health
With dental implants, you no longer have to worry about getting cavities, and your implants prevent jawbone deterioration. Dental implants are also easy to clean, making it easier to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. You can eat healthier foods, especially crunchy fruits and vegetables.
Improved Aesthetics
A complete smile with realistic, natural-looking teeth can make a major difference in your appearance, and nothing else feels or looks as natural as teeth implants. The restorations are carefully matched to the color and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless look, or we can make your new teeth lighter, close gaps, and improve their alignment.
Comfort
Dentures can slip, shift, and make eating difficult. Dental implants are stable and fixed permanently in your mouth, so they never move and feel like a natural part of your mouth. You can chew, speak, and laugh in comfort without worrying about the fit or function of your dental implants. You also do not have to remove them to sleep at night, eliminating any potential embarrassment.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Anyone missing one or more teeth who is looking for a permanent and realistic solution in appearance is a candidate for dental implants, provided they are in good health with no underlying health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes, immune diseases, or a blood-clotting disorder. Implant placement is an invasive surgery, so Dr. Arnold evaluates each patient individually to determine whether they are a suitable candidate.
Ready to Replace Your Missing Teeth?
Dr. Arnold offers a number of dental treatments to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Contact us today!
Our Dental Implant Process
Dental Implants Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
When you are comfortable, Dr. Arnold makes a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone, creating space using special instruments, and then inserts the titanium or zirconia implant. The top of this implant is often visible through the gum. Sometimes it is better in the early stages of healing to have the implant covered by the gum tissue.
Now the healing begins. The length of time varies from person to person, depending on the quality and quantity of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed. We will advise you on follow-up care and timing. After the initial phase of healing, I put an abutment (support post) or a healing cap on the implant during a brief follow-up visit. This allows gum tissue to mature and provides access to the implant.
Occasionally, impressions are made at the time the implant is placed. This enables the crown to be ready when the implants have healed. The length of time your mouth needs to heal is determined by several factors. Follow-up care (one to four appointments) is usually required to ensure that your mouth is healing well and to determine when you are ready for the restorative phase of your treatment.
Whether it’s one tooth or all of your teeth that are being replaced, Dr. Arnold will complete the restoration by fitting the replacement tooth crown or teeth (a bridge or arch of replacement teeth) to the dental implant.
In rare cases, the implant placement may be too complex for Dr. Arnold or require bone grafting. In these situations, he will refer his patient to an experienced oral surgeon. The surgeon will place the implants in the jawbone, and Dr. Arnold will create and place the restorations.
Dental Implant Options
- Single Dental Implant: A single tooth implant can be placed without harming the adjacent teeth.
- Multiple Implants: If you are missing several teeth that are not in a row, we may replace each one with an individual implant and crown.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: When several teeth are missing in a row, a customized bridge with replacement teeth can be supported by two strategically placed implants.
- Full-Arch Dental Implants: When an entire row of upper or lower teeth is missing, full-arch dental implants can replace a whole arch of teeth supported by a limited number of implants (typically between four and eight).
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These are dentures that are securely attached to implants placed in the jawbone. Fixed implant-supported dentures are not removable but suspended just above the gums so you can clean beneath the denture. Removable implant-supported dentures snap into place on posts or bars attached to the implants in the jawbone. These can be removed when you are sleeping and for cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
How long do implants take to heal?
Initial healing typically takes one to two weeks. During this time, you will be on a soft diet and must be cautious with your oral hygiene routine. By the end of the first two weeks, any discomfort, swelling, and bruising should be gone.
The most crucial healing phase is osseointegration, when the dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone, creating a stable base for your restorations. This process typically takes between three and six months. Still, it does not disrupt your life in any way and is not uncomfortable or noticeable. It is best to avoid smoking, spicy foods, and strenuous activities that could impede healing during this time.
Can I get dental implants if I currently wear dentures?
In most cases, yes. However, if you have been wearing dentures for any length of time, you may need a bone grafting procedure or specialized implant placement due to bone loss. Dr. Civils can determine whether you have sufficient bone density to support implants at your consultation.
Who performs the implant surgery?
Dr. Arnold performs the implant surgery for many of his patients. He has been placing dental implants for his patients in Texarkana since 2014. If a patient requires bone grafting or the case is more complex, necessitating specialized skills, he will refer the patient to a trusted oral surgeon with whom he will work closely to ensure the success of the dental implants.
Are dental implants painful?
For the first week after implant surgery, you can expect to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which typically peak around day three and then begin to subside. Most individuals can manage these with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs for the first 48 hours, switching to warm compresses after that. If your pain is unmanageable, Dr. Arnold can provide you with a non-narcotic prescription pain medication. After two weeks, you should feel back to normal.
How do I care for my dental implants?
The beauty of teeth implants is that they are easy to care for, with no special requirements. Brush twice daily, floss every night, and see us every six months for a checkup and professional teeth cleaning. Using an antimicrobial or antiplaque mouth rinse can help keep plaque from building up and minimize the risk of gum disease.
Am I too old for dental implants?
There is no age limit. As long as you are fully grown and your jaw is fully developed, you can get implants. Patients in their 80s have expressed their satisfaction and stated that they wished they had gotten implants years ago.
Do dental implants sound like the right choice for you? Then it is time to call Dr. Arnold’s office at Robert S Arnold DDS Phone Number (903) 838-5263 to schedule your initial consultation. Soon, you’ll be smiling like you haven’t smiled in years!