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Dental implant restoration process

So, you’ve made the decision to get dental implants. But what comes next? The experts at Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston can help guide you through the process. We provide the next step: dental implant restoration.

Dental implant surgery replaces the roots of your missing or damaged teeth with medical-grade titanium rods. These rods act as an anchor for replacement teeth our prosthodontists in Houston provide, which are specially designed to match your existing teeth. The implants won’t slip, make noise, or cause bone damage like traditional dentures and bridges, and are sturdy enough to last a lifetime. Getting dental implants can positively impact your life, but the process can take months. There are four steps to the procedure: preparation, surgical implantation, healing, and tooth replacement.

Your Experience with Dental Implant Restoration

Preparation for Dental Implants

The process of getting dental implants requires a variety of specialists, including a doctor specializing in the bones of the face and jaw (a maxillofacial surgeon), a dentist specializing in the treatment of teeth and gums (a periodontist), and a doctor who designs artificial replacement teeth (a periodontist). You may even need other specialists, such as an Ear Nose and Throat doctor or an anesthesiologist. You will receive a thorough evaluation prior to surgery, including a comprehensive dental exam with 3D imaging and x-rays as well as a review of your medical history. We will also have models made of your teeth and jaw. Finally, we will review your treatment plan and schedule you for surgery at our outpatient treatment center.

Before and after dental implant procedure

Complex and more extensive cases require several phases of therapy to provide you with healthy implants and tooth restorations.

Surgical Implantation

On the big day, you will arrive and receive instructions for the day. Once you are taken into the treatment suite, you will be given local or general anesthesia to make you comfortable. The surgeon will remove any failing teeth, before surgically inserting one or more titanium posts into your jawbone, replacing the roots of the teeth you are replacing. After you wake up, you will be able to go home, usually with pain medications and instructions for a soft diet.

Healing After Dental Implants

After your procedure, your jawbone will start to heal, growing around the inserted metal post and fusing with it in a process called osseointegration. This process forms the stable anchor used later to attach the replacement teeth. This process takes time – often months – depending on your general health and hygiene as well as the number and type of teeth being replaced.

Real Patients, Real Experiences.

 

Temporary & Final Dental Implant Restoration

While you are healing from the surgery, the prosthodontist crafts replacement teeth made of porcelain, high-quality acrylic, or a tooth-colored substance called zirconia, made to replicate the size, shape, and color of your remaining teeth. Once the anchor is stable, replacement teeth are placed. These replacement teeth – whether that is a crown, an implant-supported denture, or the All-on-4 prosthetic – are usually made of zirconium or porcelain, and will match your existing teeth in shape, size, and color.

Every implant is different. Depending on your unique anatomy, bone structure, and the number and type of teeth being replaced, you may be able to get the procedure done all in one day, or it could take as long as a year. If you are interested in getting dental implants, contact the experts at Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston for an in-depth consultation. Call +1 (281) 389-2057 or use our online form to book an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implant Restoration in Houston, TX

  • What happens after dental implant surgery before the final tooth is placed?

    After surgery, the implant goes through a healing phase called osseointegration, where it fuses with the jawbone. During this time, temporary teeth may be placed so you can maintain appearance and basic function while your permanent restoration is being prepared.

  • Is dental implant restoration painful?

    Most patients do not feel pain during the restoration phase because the implant is already integrated into the bone. You may feel slight pressure or sensitivity during crown placement, but it is generally a comfortable and quick procedure compared to surgery.

  • What types of restorations are used on dental implants?

    Depending on your case, dental implant restorations may include single crowns, implant-supported bridges, or full-arch prosthetics like All-on-4 restorations. These are custom-designed using materials like zirconia or porcelain for durability and a natural appearance.

  • Can I eat normally after my dental implant restoration is completed?

    Yes. Once your final restoration is placed and fully adjusted, you can typically return to a normal diet. Dental implant restorations are designed to function like natural teeth, allowing you to chew comfortably and confidently.

  • Why does the dental implant process take so long?

    Dental implants require time for proper healing and integration with the jawbone. This biological bonding process is essential for long-term success. Rushing this stage can increase the risk of implant failure, which is why careful timing is important.

  • What if my implant crown feels uncomfortable or doesn’t fit right?

    If your implant crown feels uneven or uncomfortable, your implant dentist in Houston can make adjustments. Minor bite corrections are common and ensure your restoration feels natural, balanced, and fully functional.

  • How do I care for my dental implant restoration?

    Caring for your restoration is similar to natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are essential. Your dentist may also recommend special cleaning tools to protect both the implant and surrounding gum tissue.

  • Can a dental implant restoration be replaced if it gets damaged?

    Yes. While dental implants themselves are highly durable, the crown or prosthetic attached to them can sometimes wear down or become damaged over time. In such cases, the restoration can be replaced without affecting the implant post.

  • Who performs dental implant restoration in Houston, TX?

    At Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston, dental implant restorations are performed by experienced specialists working with prosthetic experts to ensure precise fit, function, and aesthetics. This collaborative approach helps deliver long-lasting and natural-looking results.