Dental implants are the top choice for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Jacob Grapevine provides full implant dentistry services at his Plano, Texas, dental office. Our dentist in Plano, TX partners with skilled local oral surgeons to handle the surgery. Then he personally finishes the implant restoration in our modern office.
Many people with missing teeth are choosing dental implants over traditional dentures. Dental implants are now the gold standard for tooth replacement. They can help replace one, several, or even all missing teeth, giving you a smile that looks and feels like natural teeth.
New improvements in how implants are placed and the materials used have made them look better and last longer. These advances also mean more people can benefit from them.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post placed in the jaw bone. This serves as the artificial root for a fake tooth. The implant gets topped with a dental crown, usually made of porcelain.
Once in place, the root can support crowns, bridges, and permanent dentures. Dental implants can also anchor braces and other treatments.
The modern dental implant began in 1952, and in 1969, the first US patent for these implants was filed. Today, implants look like small screws. The dentist can place them right after pulling a tooth, with success rates similar to those placed in healed bone. Your dentist will choose the best option based on how much dental work you need.
What To Expect: Implant Dentistry
Before placing dental implants, your dentist will take X-rays and sometimes a CT scan. They will then drill small holes into your jawbone using a high-speed drill, and may use a guide to ensure correct placement.
Your bone needs time to grow around the implant before adding a crown or bridge. This keeps the new tooth stable.
Healing time can vary, but it generally takes two to six months. Some modern implants can be placed and used on the same day as the tooth extraction.
Implants are a permanent solution and don’t need special cleaning. They don’t slip like dentures can. However, you need to have a strong jawbone to support implants. Your dentist will determine if you’re a good candidate.
Though some think dental implants are a big operation, they are actually a minimally-invasive procedure with an easy recovery. There is no more natural or lasting option for missing teeth than dental implants. Dr. Grapevine and his team are happy to answer any questions and will make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Placing the Dental Implant
The first step in the dental implant process is to place the dental implant. Typically this is done at the same time the tooth is removed. Dr. Grapevine coordinate treatment with a local oral surgeon or periodontist to specify the location of the dental implant placement to ensure optimal results.
Patients typically experience some tenderness a the implantation site in the days following the dental implant placement. The initial healing is quick and the extended healing where the dental implant integrates with the bone, called osseointegration, takes about 3 to 6 months.
Preparing the Final Restoration
While you’re healing, Dr. Grapevine will take an impression of your surrounding teeth to make a dental crown that will attach to your implant. This crown will act as your new tooth.
If needed, he might place a temporary crown on the implant while you heal. This temporary tooth will fill the space and help the gums heal properly.
The final crown will consist of porcelain and created by a special dental lab that makes crowns for implants.
Final Placement
Once your implant has healed and fused with the bone, Dr. Grapevine will place the final crown in his Plano, TX office. He will securely attach the crown to the implant for a permanent fit.
Dr. Grapevine will use a T-Scan Digital Bite Analysis to check how the crown fits and how it feels when you bite down. This step helps make sure the implant is placed correctly, which is key to avoiding problems. This careful planning helps make sure that Dr. Grapevine’s implant work is very successful.
Caring for Dental Implants
One of the greatest benefits of dental implants is that they look, function, and can be cared for just like natural teeth. Dental implants last a lifetime. You don’t have to worry about getting cavities in dental implants, plus, you can eat and floss normally with dental implants.
Types of Dental Implants
Dr. Jacob Grapevine offers many different options for dental implants and can help you choose which is best for your case. Dental implants can replace one, several, or all of a person’s missing teeth.
Dental implants can support a dental bridge, partial or full denture. Mini dental implants are also an option for some patients with multiple missing teeth.
Learn More About The Dental Implant Services We Offer:
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Implant Dentures
- Multiple Dental Implants
- All-On-Four
- Dental Implant FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants depends on how many you need, where the missing tooth is, and the type of restoration you choose. We want to help you get the treatment you need at a price you can afford. Dr. Grapevine can help you figure out the best option for your budget.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
Most dental insurance plans do not cover dental implants. However, we will check with your insurance company to see if any part of the cost might be covered. If you don’t have dental insurance or need extra help with payment, we will offer financing options like CareCredit.
How Long is the Dental Implant Process?
One common worry is how long you might be without teeth. Often, we can place the implant and put on a temporary crown on the same day. The implant usually takes about 3 to 6 months to fully heal before we can attach the permanent crown. In some cases, you might get the permanent crown on the same visit.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
If you’re missing one or more teeth, come see us in Frisco or Plano, TX. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Grapevine to talk about your oral health concerns to find out if dental implants are right for you.