Living with missing teeth can feel like a daily struggle, from avoiding your favorite foods to hiding your smile in photos. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or have been living without one for years, dental implants offer a reliable and natural-looking way to fill the gap. In fact, they’re a life-changing solution that helps you reclaim a full, functional, and radiant smile.
If missing teeth have left gaps in your smile or made eating uncomfortable, you’re not alone. At Dr. Peter Hazim’s office, our providers and staff know how impactful tooth loss can be, both emotionally and physically. Located in Allen, TX, we’re here to help you rediscover the joy of smiling and living without limitations. Recognized as the Best Dentist six years in a row, our team takes pride in offering compassionate care that combines advanced technology with a focus on your comfort.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a replacement for lost or damaged teeth. Typically, the process of getting an implant requires long stretches of healing time, but the results are durable and longer lasting than other options. Part of the reason implants are so long-lasting is because they fuse with your jawbone, making the replacement as strong and stable as possible.
The implants are made of three parts: the titanium screw-like post placed into the jawbone, the abutment, and the crown attached to the abutment. The crown is large enough to cover up the abutment and post underneath but is sized, shaped, and colored to match the appearance of your natural teeth. Not only do they match the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, but they’ll also function remarkably similarly to your natural teeth, making eating and speaking easier.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
How long your dental implants last will vary depending on many factors, including the type of implant you get, what your health looks like, and how good you are at following an oral hygiene routine. Dental implants are made to last a long time, sometimes up to the remainder of a person’s life. Your implants may last up for many years as long as you engage in excellent care and check-ins with your dental provider.
How Long Does the Implant Process Take?
Your dental implant timeline may vary based on several factors. For example, patients who need a bone graft may not finish the entire process until nine or 12 months later.
However, according to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s essential to get an implant as soon as possible after your bone grafting is completed. If a bone graft is left alone, it may begin to shrink. If the bone graft shrinks, you’ll likely have to defer final treatment again and get another graft. You’ll want to speak with your dentist about rough timelines if you need any care before getting your implants, just to ensure that expectations and commitment requirements are clear.
Who Might Need Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent solution for many patients, including those who have lost a tooth or have a tooth affected by significant decay or damage. These may also be a good solution for those who don’t want dentures or who wish to avoid substantial bone or jaw loss. Patients with difficulty chewing or speaking correctly may also want to consider dental implants or another form of dental intervention.
Determining who is eligible and a strong candidate for dental implants can be complex. However, if you identify with the following statements, you are more likely to be a good fit for dental implants:
- If bone structures have deteriorated, you’re open to bone grafting
- You have strong jaw and bone structures to support the implants
- You have good overall health, oral hygiene, and a healthy oral cavity
- You do not have any health conditions that could affect bone health or the healing process, such as pregnancy, the use of certain medications, or a compromised immune system
- You do not smoke or use tobacco products
- You do not drink heavily
- Your jawbone has finished forming and growing
If you do not currently meet all of the requirements to be eligible for dental implants, there may be additional steps you can take to improve your candidacy. For example, patients open to undergoing bone and gum grafting where necessary, getting treatment for gum disease, or being willing to stop smoking may become more eligible over time. Please speak with our experienced Allen, TX prosthodontist today to learn more about your options and what you can expect moving forward with your care.
Want to Transform Your Smile? Talk to Dr. Peter Hazim’s Office About Dental Implants
Located in Allen, TX, we are committed to helping you regain confidence and functionality with dental implants. Dr. Peter Hazim and his staff have been trusted to provide comprehensive dentistry for over 20 years.
Whether you’re looking to replace a single tooth or restore your entire smile, our advanced techniques and compassionate care aim to deliver long-lasting results tailored to your needs. To schedule a consultation and learn more about your options, feel free to call (972) 727-5599 or complete our contact form. Let us guide you toward a brighter, more functional smile that enhances your quality of life.