Questions For Your Belton Dentist?
At Lakewood Dental Trails, your concerns are our concerns. We want you to know that we are always more than happy to answer your questions so you can feel confident and informed about your oral health needs. Our dental team is highly experienced and knowledgeable about dentistry, and you can turn to any of them with your questions. They will either give you the information you need or find someone who can.
We've shared a few of the questions that our patients frequently ask. If you have others, don't hesitate to call us at (254) 206-3200 or email us using our convenient online contact form.
Dental Implants
Osseointegration is the process by which your jawbone fuses with a dental implant, creating a stable, permanent foundation for your replacement tooth. This biological fusing is what makes dental implants in Belton, TX, the most successful and long-lasting tooth replacement option available.
How Osseointegration Works
When your Belton, TX, dentist places a titanium implant into your jawbone, your body begins a remarkable healing process. The bone cells gradually grow around and directly bond to the implant surface, essentially making the implant a part of your natural bone structure. This fusion is what allows dental implants to function just like natural tooth roots and withstand the same biting and chewing forces without shifting or loosening.
Why Titanium Makes It Possible
Titanium is biocompatible, meaning your body accepts it without rejection. This same material has been used successfully for decades in hip replacements, knee replacements, and other joint surgeries. The body's ability to integrate with titanium is what makes modern dental implants so predictable and durable.
Individual Healing Timelines
Osseointegration times vary by individual, typically taking three to six months to complete. Factors like bone density, overall health, and whether bone grafting was needed can affect how quickly your implant fuses with your jawbone. Your dentist will monitor your progress and determine when your implant is ready to support your permanent crown.
Want to learn more about dental implants or schedule your next checkup? Call Lakewood Dental Trails at (254) 206-3200 to get started.
Dental implants are a fantastic way to replace one or more missing teeth, and although every patient’s treatment plan is different, the process from start to finish usually takes several months or more.
The Dental Implant Process Step by Step at Lakewood Dental Trails
Here are the steps to the dental implant process:
- Consultation — We’ll assess your oral health and take x-rays and scans.
- Implant placement — On the day of your procedure, we’ll surgically place a dental implant into your jaw.
- Healing — Over the next several months, the implant will fuse with your jawbone.
- Abutment placement — We’ll place a connector onto your implant. This will need to heal for a couple of weeks.
- Crown placement — The last step involves adding a custom crown to the abutment.
What Can Affect the Timeline for Dental Implants in Belton, TX?
Numerous things can affect your implant treatment timeline, including:
- Jawbone density — If you don’t have sufficient jawbone density, you may need a bone grafting procedure.
- Overall health — It may take longer for you to heal if you have uncontrolled diabetes or an autoimmune disorder.
- Smoking — When you smoke or use tobacco, it can slow your healing time.
- Gum disease — Active gum disease needs to be treated before dental implant placement.
- Tooth extraction — If we need to remove one or more teeth before the implant process, this extends your treatment time.
Dental Implants in Belton, TX
If you need a dentist in Belton, TX, we’d love to meet you! At Lakewood Dental Trails, we truly care about your oral health needs.
To schedule a visit with us, please don’t hesitate to contact our dental office at (254) 206-3200.