The 411 On Dental Implants

Are you missing a tooth? Have you been told you have a tooth that is not repairable? If so, you are likely a good candidate for dental implants. An Austin dental implant is the gold standard for tooth replacement. A dental implant functions, chews and feels more like a natural tooth.

The procedure of placement is usually surprisingly simple with minimal discomfort. Patients consistently report the discomfort is no different than simply having a bad tooth removed. Prior to placement of an implant, a sophisticated image called a CBCT may be taken. This image allows our surgeons to accurately plan the procedure knowing exactly where the implant will reside. With proper planning this procedure is safely performed producing a very esthetic result. In many cases a tooth can be placed immediately on top of the implant at the time of surgery while sometimes a healing period is required. If healing is required, Dr Cash and his team have several short-term tooth replacement options available during the healing process ensuring you never have an empty space where a tooth was!

Patients often ask if conditions such as diabetes, gum disease, smoking or other conditions disqualify them as a candidate for implants.  Patients with any of the above and many other health conditions have a proven history of implant success. Implants are a preferred tooth replacement method over fixed and removable bridges.

Fixed bridges require treatment of surrounding teeth for support of one or more missing teeth. If a fixed (non-removable) bridge chips, breaks or is affected by tooth decay, all involved with the bridge require additional treatment.

Removable bridges or “partials” slightly move during chewing and speaking making them less comfortable. Removable bridges also require the support of your other teeth putting those teeth at risk.

If you have a missing tooth and are considering dental implants, we would be happy to discuss the benefits with you. Many dental insurance carriers understand the long-term benefits of dental implants and provide coverage for the procedure. If you are a patient with dental benefits, we provide and e-file all of the necessary documents to administer your coverage. If you are one of our many patients without dental benefits, we provide several options to make implant treatment more affordable.  If you have questions regarding implants or other dental treatment options, we would be happy to discuss them with you.  Call our office today to see if you are a candidate for dental implants!