REDISCOVER THE COMFORT AND CONFIDENCE OF A HEALTHY SMILE

Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are not just for replacing individual teeth but are also an effective way of replacing groupings of teeth with an implant bridge, or of replacing a whole arch and/or dentition with implants. There are various options to approaching such a significant transition, and Dr. Teitelbaum can discuss the benefits and draw backs to each option to find the best solution for your desires and needs.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

San Angelo periodontist and dental implant specialist, Dr. Teitelbaum, has received extensive training in Implantology. Through years of experience of successfully placing implants and through continuing education, Dr. Teitelbaum is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.

How do I know if dental implants are right for me?

A thorough evaluation will allow Dr. Teitelbaum to determine if dental implants are the right procedure for you. If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

What is the process for getting a dental implant?

Dental implants are metal screw-shaped anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are attached to the implant to provide stable anchors in the gums for replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves a surgical procedure. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors that include hardness of bone.

For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants gradually bond with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures if needed during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture that will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has integrated to the jawbone, the second phase begins. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implant. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure varies from three to nine months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Dr. Austin Teitelbaum specializes in providing dental implants to patients across San Angelo and surrounding areas. If you have any questions about dental implant surgery and procedures or if you are ready to schedule an appointment, call West TX Periodontics & Dental Implants today.