How Have Dental Implants In The Woodlands TX Improved Through The Years?

It seems that missing tooth and even multiple teeth loss is fast becoming a common occurrence among Americans in recent years. According to statistics, almost 70% of adults aged 35 to 44 have at least one single tooth missing as a result of injury, gum diseases, tooth decay and other reasons. And imagine this. When they reach 74 years of age, about 26% of adults will completely lose all their teeth! In the past, patients with this dental issue were given very limited solutions. Fortunately, more options are made available in recent years like dental implants in The Woodlands which offer potential patients a long-term solution that come with a number of excellent benefits.

One of the best things about a dental implant treatment is that the replacement tooth is like the natural tooth in terms of appearance. It works and feel like the original, too. Plus, given that it has a secure and solid foundation, there’s no worry that it might move or shift or even fall off while you are talking or eating. The solid base can be attributed to the fact that the dental implant unto which the crown is affixed is surgically inserted into the jawbone area and has merged with the natural bone making it very secure in its place.

Another benefit of dental implants is that the procedure won’t harm or damage any adjacent teeth. This is because the implant can stand on its own unlike other dental alternatives like bridges, wherein there’s a need to prepare surrounding teeth for support. Plus, they are easy and convenient to care for. In fact, caring for them is the same way as you would care for your natural teeth. Aside from the diligent oral hygiene, you also have to visit your dentist regularly.

On the downside, despite having a very high success rate, a dental implant procedure can also fail. Also, there are complications that may come up during and even after the surgery which include among others infection, bleeding, nerve damage and nasal cavity injuries. Then again, these issues with early detection can be easily addressed. The cost of dental implants can be an issue as well. The procedure is not exactly cheap. In general, the cost of a single dental implant can range from $3500-$4000. And what’s worse about it is that most dental insurance plans won’t shoulder the cost of the treatment.

To sum up, even with and in spite of the cost of the treatment, dental implants are worth considering as a possible solution to address single or multiple teeth loss.

Can’t smile because of some missing teeth? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS at Northeast Houston Dental Implants & Periodontology today to see which dental option can put back the smile on your face.

Who Are Great Candidates For Dental Implants In The Woodlands TX?

Many people think that dental implants are just recent inventions, but they actually started way back in 1952. Of course, the implants that we have now, backed up with more than 50 years of continued research and studies, are the improved versions. Now, this treatment is considered an ideal long-term solution for patients suffering from single tooth or multiple teeth loss. If you are dealing with the same dental problem and are considering dental implants in The Woodlands TX as a possible option, it is a good idea to learn all you can about the treatment before anything else.

What is a dental implant?

In layman’s terms, a dental implant is basically a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into a patient’s jawbone and allowed to fuse with the natural bone within the next few months. This object will serve as a replacement root for the missing tooth. Then, when it is ready, a crown is attached on it. What is great about this dental procedure is that it doesn’t affect any adjacent tooth because the implant can stand up on its own. Also, since the implant itself has merged with the jawbone through a process called osseontegration, it provides a stable and secure foundation. This means that there’s no likelihood that the implant will move or shift at any time. And also, its solid foundation will ensure that it can stand up against any pressure exerted by the mouth. And the best part about it is that the replacement tooth mimics a natural tooth with practically the same look and feel.

Dental implants have impressive track record for successful procedures with a success rate of almost 98%. And while the procedure comes with some associated risks, the chances of failure, though is very low. In general, most of the complications that arise during or even after the procedure can easily be rectified.

When should you consider a dental implant?

Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth and even all of the teeth of a patient. The goal is not only to restore the function of the missing teeth but also to improve aesthetics. However, it may not be for everyone. There are factors to consider that will decide whether or not a patient is an ideal candidate. These include among others the location of the missing tooth, the patients overall health condition and the quality and density of the jawbone area where the dental implant will be attached. This is why a patient considering this treatment has to go through series of evaluation to determine whether or not a dental implant treatment is the most ideal option for him.

How much does a dental implant cost?

It is not easy to determine the exact cost of a dental implant because there are variables to consider like the place where you have the treatment, the type of implant used and who is performing the procedure. Broadly speaking, a single dental implant can cost anywhere from $3,000-$4,500 with the inclusion of the cost of the dental implant surgery and all the components as well as the crown itself. It is important to take note that not many dental insurance plans pay for the treatment. Those that do only help shoulder the price of the implant crown.

Are you suffering from low self-esteem because of a dental problem? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS or Northeast Houston Dental Implants & Periodontology today to see which dental solution can restore the confidence you lost. 

Why Dental Implants In Spring TX May Not Be For You

There used to be very limited options when it comes to addressing a missing tooth. Today, patients suffering from a single or multiple teeth loss are offered a number of alternative choices. One popular solution that is a cut above the rest is dental implant treatment. This sophisticated dental procedure has taken the field of dentistry to a whole new level of sophistication. However, if you are considering dental implants in Spring TX or elsewhere, it is important to take note that not everyone are ideal candidates.

The Risks

The success rate of a dental implant procedure is quite high but there are still risks involved. This is exactly the reason why you have to learn all you can about the treatment to know what to expect. Common complications are infection, damage to the surrounding teeth and even to the nerves. An implant can also fail. This means that the implant did not fuse with the bone as expected. When this happens, surgeons will give it another try. However, the procedure will not begin until the area has sufficiently healed which can take several months.

Are you an ideal candidate?

If you have missing teeth and considering dental implants, consult with your dental practitioner. If you are not confident with the diagnostic or the treatment option presented to you, you can always get a second opinion. In fact, if it is not at all urgent, it is smart to get multiple opinions. Dentists can have varying opinions mainly because they have varied educational background and even experiences in the field.

Broadly speaking, ideal candidates for dental implants should have a good health condition. He should also have sufficient bone density to support the dental implant itself. This is extremely important since having sufficient jawbone density will ensure that the implant will be able to withstand extreme forces that are exerted by the mouth such as when chewing, etc. Also, an ideal candidate should be committed to adhere to good oral hygiene all throughout the procedure and even after. Plus, he should not be suffering from any medical problems that could affect his ability to heal. Ideally, he should be a non-smoker, but if he is, he should refrain from smoking at least during the treatment process.

Recovery time

A dental implant treatment process can require several months to complete. This is due to the fact that it will take time for the bone grafting area to heal. And if it is healed, and the implant is placed, more time is again required before the replacement tooth is attached.

Do you have dental issues that are preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS or Northeast Houston Dental Implants & Periodontology today to help you decide which dental solution is right for your needs. 

Are Dental Implants In Spring TX Worth Their Price Tags?

Dental implants, just like anything else, have their share of pros and cons. This dental surgery, which has changed the face of the dental industry, offers a permanent solution to people dealing with tooth or multiple teeth loss. Its track record for successful dental implant surgery is quite remarkable. But as stated, there are potential risks involved. Thus, before considering dental implants in Spring TX or elsewhere, you should be aware of the possible complications not only during the surgery itself but even after the procedure.

What goes on during the surgery?

If you think about it, the chance of developing complications in a dental implant surgery is actually very low. Recent statistics says it’s less than 5%. On the other hand, there are a number of individuals that might be ideal candidates for the procedure. Accordingly, about 70% of adults aged 35-44 are suffering from at least one tooth missing due to trauma, gum diseases, tooth decay and failed root canal.

Basically, a dental implant treatment involves surgically inserting a titanium screw directly into a patient’s jawbone. This will be the base into which the crown or replacement tooth will be attached. What’s great about this dental solution is that the implant fuses with the jawbone providing a solid and secure connection. Unlike other dental options, there’s no worry that the implant will move, shift or fall off your mouth while you’re talking or eating. Also, the replacement teeth look and feel just like your natural tooth.

The Potential Risks:

While a dental implant procedure has a very high success rate, more than 95%, it is, however, not for everybody. Generally, they work best for patients with very good overall health condition. Common issues associated with this dental surgery include infection, insufficient bone mass, fractured implants, incorrect positioning, as well as damage to surrounding tissues and even overloading and reaction to anesthesia. The good news though is that most of these issues can be easily addressed. Then again, when ignored, even minor issues can lead to bigger health problems with long-term implications. Meanwhile, when a dental implant fails, a second implant is normally attempted. But you may have to wait for several months until the area has healed before the second procedure begins.

The Cost

One of the drawbacks of dental implants is that the procedure is usually expensive. Its cost is generally higher than other dental solutions. And what’s worse about it is that most dental insurance policies won’t cover its cost. Those who do will only pay for the cost of the crown which isn’t much. Fortunately, in recent years, dental implants are made more affordable allowing more and more individuals to reap all the benefits the treatment can offer.

Want to know if you’re an ideal candidate for dental implants? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS at Northeast Houston Dental Implants & Periodontology today for a professional assessment.

What Exactly Is An Oral Surgeon In Houston TX?

Nowadays, with the changes and advances in the field of dentistry as well as the evolution of specializations, finding the right dental expert to handle your specific issues has become tricky. For instance, there are cases that demand the expertise of an oral surgeon because they are more than what a common dentist can handle. This is when being informed comes in handy so you can make informed decisions that will enable you to get the best dental treatment that you deserve. If you are looking for a competent oral surgeon in Houston TX or anywhere else, here’s some information that will help you find a good one.

First of all, an oral surgeon is basically a surgical expert in the field of dentistry particularly in the oral and maxillofacial areas. To be an oral surgeon, a dentist has to undergo up to 4 years of hospital-based training. During this period, he will be trained in different fields like anesthesiology, emergency medicine, ICU, general surgery, plastic surgery and others. After the training, he will spend more time to develop his skills and knowledge and at the same time gain experience in other related fields particularly involving surgeries to the mouth, jaws and face. This extensive training will enable an oral surgeon to successfully perform surgeries involving the areas in the mouth, jaws and face.

While oral surgeons have offices that are similar to that of a general dentist, they however have equipment and tools that are more specialized and sophisticated to enable them to perform procedures in a quicker and more precise manner.

What To Look For In An Oral Surgeon:

When you’ve got dental problems that require the expertise of an oral surgeon, find one who is competent in his field. His skills and experience is a huge factor that can determine the success of the procedure. So how can you find a good one? First of all, you should verify that he is indeed an oral surgeon. Ask for papers that will prove that he is certified. You have to take note that not all are board-certified. To find someone competent to handle you case, it is best to find one that has achieved the highest credentials and met the standards set for the profession.

Before making a decision, set an interview and ask about his past experiences in the field especially in handling cases similar to yours. Ask if he encountered any problem and how he managed to deal with the situation. Make sure also to ask about his plans in case of emergency. Aside from making sure that you find a competent oral surgeon, make sure also that you get one who is caring and will be available for you in case problems arise later on.

Got dental issues that are more than what a common dentist can handle? Visit Northeast Houston Implants & Periodontology today to ensure a successful procedure. 

Crucial Information On Dental Implants In Houston TX That You Should Be Aware Of

Teeth loss has become a common problem for many people. Accordingly, 69% of American adults ages 35-44 have lost at least a tooth due to trauma, gum disease or tooth decay. Furthermore, by the time they turn 74, about 30 million adults will have complete loss of teeth in one or both of their jaws. Over the years, many options are made available to deal with this dental issue. However, it wasn’t until the introduction of dental implants that patients were offered an ideal solution that brings in a number of long-term benefits. It was actually because of this dental treatment that the field of dentistry has reached new heights. Thanks to improved technologies and constant researches, reliable dental implants in Houston TX and anywhere else across the country, have become an ideal option that gives patients the chance to live their life to the fullest.

Today, about 100,000-300,000 dental implants are placed into people’s mouths per year. This only shows how this dental procedure has become a common procedure over the years. This is not surprising because not only does it offer remarkable benefits, the treatment has also been made more affordable. It certainly helps that the success rate for dental implant procedures is 98%.

What are the benefits?

One major benefit of dental implants is that the replacement teeth are practically like your natural teeth in terms of appearance and function. A dental implant also provides a strong and stable foundation. It is also built to last which means that it can last a lifetime as long as proper care is observed. Dental implants don’t interfere with your eating, smiling, speaking and other day to day activities involving your mouth in general. And since you can count on their stability, there’s no worry that your replacement teeth will move, shift or worse, fall off your mouth anytime, a common occurrence with other dental options.

With dental implants, your facial structure is maintained. It is common knowledge that the loss of a tooth or multiple teeth can cause your face to sag and deform overtime. In addition, they can also help protect you against bone deterioration which in turn can lead to other serious health issues. A dental implant procedure is actually the only dental treatment available that promotes natural growth of the bone. Also, it promotes good oral health since cavities can’t occur in implant-restored crown. Then again, patients have to take care of their implants just like their natural teeth to keep it clean and long-lasting.

As a final point, with dental implants, adjacent teeth are protected since the procedure goes into the jawbone rather than grinding any healthy tooth for support just like with other dental options.

In general, dental implants are safe, effective and reliable. However, it’s not for everyone since its success relies on a patient’s overall health condition and bone quality. Before you decide to go through the procedure, make sure that it really is the right solution for you.

Have you got dental issues that prevent you from living your life to the fullest? Check out Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS or Northeast Houston Dental Implants & Periodontology today and see which dental solution is ideal for you.