Questions About Implant Dentistry

Houston, The Woodlands, Kingwood, Spring, and Conroe, Texas

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a false tooth that is attached directly to your jaw and gums where the root of your missing tooth used to be. Dental implants are made up of two parts:

Titanium Post
Dental Crown

The titanium post is surgically implanted into your jaw bone, and once the bone has grown around it to make it secure, a porcelain dental crown is affixed and cemented to the post. When correctly performed, implant dentistry provides you with a false tooth that performs exactly like your natural teeth.

Is titanium safe to implant?

Titanium is a stable metal that is often used in many forms of internal surgery, and unlike mercury amalgam fillings, it does not leak any harmful substance into your body. Titanium was discovered as an orthopedic implantable metal by accident in 1952 by a Swedish orthopedist who was unable to remove titanium implants because the test subjects’ bone material had grown around the titanium, securing it in place.

Who performs implant dentistry?

Implant dentistry is performed by dentists who have completed implant dentistry training. Because it is a highly specialized branch of dentistry, it requires special care in execution. Houston implant dentist Dr. Scott Young has completed training in implant dentistry and performs all dental implants in our office.

Does a dental implant look like a real tooth?

Yes, when correctly implanted and crafted, a dental implant looks like a natural tooth.

How long will my dental implant last?

Because titanium and porcelain are both resilient materials, your dental implant has the potential to last as long as the jaw it is implanted into. However, like your natural teeth, dental implants require good dental hygiene and care in order for the surrounding gums and bone material to remain healthy. If it is not properly cared for, a dental implant may deteriorate, just like your natural teeth.

How should I care for my dental implant?

You should care for your dental implant exactly like your natural teeth, making sure to follow good dental hygiene practice by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. You should also remember to have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months, and to seek immediate attention if you notice any damage to your dental implant.

Read about Dental Implant Candidacy

To learn more about implant dentistry or to make an appointment for a consultation, please contact our Houston cosmetic dentistry office today. Woodlands Premier Dentistry serves patients in Houston, The Woodlands, and Kingwood, Texas, and the surrounding areas.