What are dental implants?
Implants are biocompatible titanium posts placed in the jaw that can secure dental crowns in place. They are used to replace one or more teeth. Dental implants are usually the ideal replacement for natural teeth because they are very durable. For the patient, they can also look and feel just like your natural teeth. If you need to replace a tooth, our doctors will review your case to see if you are a good candidate for a dental implant.
How do you plan out the implant process?
First, our doctors will do an exam usually take some x-rays to determine if a dental implant is the best choice for your particular case. We might also take a CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) scan, which scans the bones and soft tissues for your entire mouth in 3D. This way we can see the implant site from every angle and lets us determine if an implant would work well for your situation. The doctors also use the 3D image to plan exactly how the implant will be placed, if appropriate.
A CBCT scan is very quick process (the scan takes than a minute), uses minimal radiation, and is totally painless. It also an important tool that allows us to plan our your treatment with the best possible outcome.
What to expect when getting an implant crown:
If our Doctors decide you are a good candidate for an implant, we will walk you though the procedure of having the implant post placed, having a checkup and coming in for your replacement crown(s). After you have your metal post placed properly and the site will be given time to heal so that the area can recover and be ready to receive your implant crown, which is the visible part of the implant.
We will check in with you during this period to make sure that the area is healing properly and when you are ready, we will schedule you for your implant crown placement.
The implant crown will be placed directly over the top of the metal post and remains securely in place when you chew, talk and brush your teeth. You won't notice any difference between your implant and your natural teeth. We offer same day crowns that are milled with our CEREC right in our McKinney dental office.
Dr. Sieng or Dr. Swope will also walk you through this process in more detail so you know what to expect when having an implant crown placed. We will make sure your new teeth are just right for you!
For more information, please contact our office and our friendly staff will be more than happy to help you with any questions or help you schedule a consultation!