How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dental Implants?

Dental Implant Process

When you decide to invest in dental implants to restore your smile, you want to make sure you find the perfect dentist. Quality dentistry you can count on is important to ensure your implant procedure is successful.

There are many things to look out for when choosing a dentist in your area. Dentists should have proper training and years of experience in implant dentistry. It is important that the dentist you choose is heavily involved in continuing education. This ensures they are staying on top of the latest trends and techniques available in the dental industry. If you need a source or list of dentists in your area, you can visit the American Academy of Implant Dentistry website to locate an implant expert.

What Are Tips To Consider When Choosing My Dentist?

  • Complete research on your own and find out what services your dentist offers, and how many years they have been treating patients.
  • Check on their continuing education experience to ensure your dentist is providing the highest level of care and technology to all patients.
  • Research or ask questions about the dentist’s experience and background on implant dentistry, and how many patients they have treated successfully.
  • Ask friends or neighbors that have had implant surgery, and have them provide feedback on the procedure and recovery process.
  • Look for a full-service practice that can handle the entire process from start to finish. You don’t want to have to visit multiple offices when you are going through an extensive process like dental implant surgery.
  • Talk to your dentist about sedation options and what may work best for you. It is important to feel comfortable about the dental implant process, and your dentist should want to help choose the best option for sedation that works for you.

At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, we are a full-service practice, and our passion is restoring smiles for our patients. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have broken or cracked teeth, our team can help. We have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients restore their confidence with a brand-new smile.

Don’t live with a smile that causes you to be embarrassed around others. Implants offer a permanent solution, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Dental implants are durable, and can function just like our natural teeth.

Looking for a Dental Implant Specialist in Your Area?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants today. Our staff would love to welcome you to our practice, and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dental implants are a big decision and can be life changing. Let our doctors get you started with our dental implant consultation process today.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Popcorn Bad to Eat if you have Dental Implants?

Popcorn and Dental Implants

Dental implants are an investment, and after you go through the process and finally have that perfect smile, it is important to care for them properly. Watching what you eat or chew on helps to ensure your implants stay in great condition. There are certain foods patients should avoid with their dental implants to help keep them looking and feeling great.

At North Houston Periodontics, we specialize in implant dentistry, and our team is trained to work with each patient throughout the entire process. We prepare our patients on what to expect, and discuss how to care for your implants at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is always key to ensure you keep your implants clean and free of harmful plaque.

Can I Eat Popcorn?

Popcorn is one of the foods that should be avoided if you have dental implants. Any food that is a seed can be dangerous, and can cause you to have potential issues. Popcorn specifically can get stuck between the teeth and gums, and damage your implants. If you chew on an un-popped kernel, this can put stress on your implant, and can cause the implant to become weak or unstable. Implants are durable, but in some cases, they can break or crack if they are not treated with care.

We always recommend patients treat their implants just like their natural teeth. Keeping your dental implants clean and healthy can avoid unnecessary or painful trips to the dentist. After investing in your smile, you want to avoid the need for repair. There are plenty of snacks and foods that are softer, and are safe to eat with dental implants.

Looking to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they can benefit you, contact North Houston Periodontics today to schedule your appointment. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and we provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients.

If you are unhappy with your smile, and are looking to restore the functionality of your teeth and mouth, North Houston Periodontics can help. Let us get you started with the process towards a smile you can be confident to show others.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Houston Periodontics, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What is Considered a Dental Restoration?

a Dental Restoration

If you have teeth that are decayed, injured, or missing you may require a dental restoration. Common types of dental restorations include crowns, fillings, implants, dentures, and bridges. Never hesitate to call the dentist if you have an issue with your tooth. In many cases our team can save your tooth with a restoration before the tooth damage progresses. It is always important to address any issues with your teeth promptly, or more serious complications may develop.

What Are Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations are various ways your dentist can help restore your teeth. If you are missing parts of your tooth, have an injury, or decay, restorations can help restore your tooth and prevent further damage. If you have a portion of your tooth missing due to decay, or have an old restoration that is in need of replacement, dental restorations can help fix these issues. 

Following a good oral hygiene routine at home can help keep your teeth and mouth healthy and prevent decay. We recommend attending your regular exams twice a year to ensure your teeth and mouth look healthy. During your regular visits our doctor will check for cavities, and make sure we don’t see any serious issues.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Restorations?

  • Fillings: Fillings are the most common type of dental restoration and can help save teeth from decay. There are many filling types from tooth colored composite fillings, to silver amalgam, and composite fillings. Depending on the size of the cavity and location, will determine what type of filling material is used.
  • Crowns: Crowns are a cap that is placed over a tooth. Crowns restore the shape and size of a tooth, and are matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Crown are used with dental implants, or after a root canal to restore the functionality of a tooth.
  • Bridges: Bridges are false teeth and help to bridge the gap for missing teeth. Bridges are used along side crowns, and cement is used to permanently secure the bridge into place.
  • Dental Implants: Dental Implants are similar to a screw that is placed into the jaw. Implants are posts that are made of titanium and attached to a connector or abutment. The implant is then covered with a crown. Implants are permanent and are highly durable, lasting upwards of 15 years.
  • Dentures: Dentures are made of acrylic resin combined with metal and are a removable replacement for missing teeth. If you still have some of your natural teeth, partial dentures can be used to help bridge the gap and give a natural look.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations provide many benefits and help restore your smile. If you are missing teeth or have decay, and are looking to get that perfect smile back, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants to help. Dental restorations can help you speak and eat easier, and give you a smile that restores your confidence.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Restorations?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental restorations contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants. Our doctors have years of experience in dental restorations, and love to help patients get the smile of their dreams. Your oral health is important to us, and we make our patients a priority, and always have your best interests in mind. Let our team get you on the road to a great smile!

To schedule your appointment with us contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

If you are looking for that perfect smile and want a permanent solution to broken, missing, or cracked teeth, then dental implants may be the perfect choice. Dental implants are built to last, and give patients a permanent solution that restores your smile. Implants can help build confidence, and if taken care of can last upwards of 25 years.

At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, our passion is creating beautiful smiles. Our doctors have years of experience in implant dentistry, and love to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams. During our detailed implant process, our doctor will complete an evaluation of your teeth and mouth and create a customized treatment plan. We work directly with the patient to choose a treatment that best fits your needs. Our staff is available every step of the way to answer questions and support our patients through the implant process.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants provide long lasting results, and allow patients to speak and eat normally like they would with natural teeth. Implants are comfortable and are attached to the tooth’s roots, providing a strong base for the crowns that are attached to the implant. Dental implants have a success rate of 95%, and can be life changing. Implants are just as strong as our natural teeth, and in most cases can withstand more pressure. Bone grafting can be done if the patient requires additional support in the jaw area prior to your implant procedure.

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Patients should continue to practice good oral hygiene habits at home with brushing and flossing to keep your dental implants looking and feeling great. At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants your oral health is our priority, and patients should never live with a smile they are embarrassed of. Let our team help you take control of your oral health, and get you started towards a new smile!

Interested in Finding Out More About the Benefits of Dental Implants?

If you are ready for a new smile, and would like to explore the benefits of dental implants, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants. Our doctors have done thousands of implant procedures helping patients achieve that perfect smile. Our practice is equipped with state-of-the-art technology in a welcoming and relaxing environment. We are accepting new patients, and we welcome you to join our dental family.

To schedule your implant consultation, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Do All on 4 Implants Take a Long Time To Heal?

If you are looking at dental implants and want the process to be quick, then All-On-4 dental implants may be right for you. All-on-4 implants are also known as Teeth in a Day, and can be placed in a single appointment. All-on-4 implants are a fixed denture that is implant supported typically by 4 dental implants.

How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?

All-on-4 dental implants can provide patients with dental implants in just one visit to our office. The implants are strategically placed in the top and bottom of the mouth. The benefit of this type of implant is that an implant is not needed for every tooth, making the process easier compared to traditional implants. All-on-4 dental implants are reliable and can last for years. During the healing process the implants fuse to the bone and this creates a stable base.

How Does the Healing Process Work?

Many patients wonder how the healing process works with All-on-4 implants compared to other options. The good news is the healing time is quicker with All-on-4 compared to traditional implants. Patients should still plan for a few months of healing as the implants fuse to the jawbone. Patients can experience the benefits of implants, and restore their smile in one day.

Once the implants are placed, we do recommend a liquid diet as the area heals. Patients can slowly incorporate soft foods into their diet, and be careful while chewing. Gradually patients can add normal foods back into their diet as your mouth heals. Patients are required to return for follow up visits to our office. This ensures the implants are healing properly, and allows our doctors to spot any potential issues. We also want to make sure the implants feel comfortable in the mouth, and listen to feedback our patients have about their new smile.

Interested in Finding Out More About All-On-4 Dental Implants?

If you are ready to take that next step towards a beautiful smile, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants. Our doctors have years of experience in implant dentistry, and love to give patients a smile they can show off. Dental implants restore confidence, and allow you to speak and eat normally. Implants are life changing, and can help you feel better about yourself and your smile. Let our team help you move towards that smile you have always wanted!

To schedule your implant consultation, or to find out more about the benefits of All-on-4 dental implants, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Can You Get Dental Implants After Having Dentures For Years?

Dental Implant

If you have been using dentures for years and are ready for a change, dental implants may be the perfect solution. You may be wondering if you can switch from dentures to implants, and the good news is that this is an option. Many patients get frustrated with dentures, but in the beginning they were the easier choice. Dentures are easier to get and do not require the recovery time that implants require. Cost is much lower and this attracts patients to dentures.

Patients tend to get frustrated with dentures over time, and do not like the slipping or clicking that comes with them. Dentures have to be taken out and cleaned, adding another item to your oral hygiene routine. Over time our faces tend to sag, and dentures do not provide the support that implants do.

Why Should I Switch to Dental Implants?

Dental implants can improve your dental health, and can give you a better quality of life. Implants are permanent and last for years restoring your smile. Patients do not have to worry about slipping or clicking, and can eat the foods they love without worrying their device will fall out. Implants are comfortable and feel like natural teeth. You don’t have to worry about sore spots or raw gums, and patients can feel confident around others.

Taking care of dental implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Following a good oral hygiene routine at home can ensure your dental implants always look and feel great. You will feel like you have your natural teeth again with dental implants.

Is Bone Grafting Needed?

In some cases when patients switch from dentures to implants, they may need a bone graft. Over time your jawbone shrinks, and you may not have enough bone to support the implants. As part of the evaluation, we will check to see if you have sufficient bone in the jaw. If needed bone grafting can be done to provide the support needed prior to you starting the implant process. The recovery period for a bone graft is a few months, and this can vary between patients.

Ready to Find Out More About Switching to Dental Implants?

The majority of patients are great candidates for dental implants, and our team at North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, strives to help patients achieve a smile they love. You don’t have to suffer with dentures, and implants can give you a permanent solution that lasts for years.

Our doctors have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Let our team at North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants help you start the implant process today!

To schedule your implant consultation contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What are All-on-4 Teeth Implants in Dentistry?

All-on-4 Teeth Implants

All-on-4 implants provide patients with dental implants in just one appointment. These implants can be placed by dentist while the patient is comfortably sedated. This type of implant process is also known as Teeth in a Day, and is a fixed denture that is typically supported by 4 implants.

All-on-4 implants are placed strategically, and implants are not required for each tooth making this an easy process. Implants are a permanent restorative solution that lasts for years. Implants fuse to the jawbone, and create a stable base allowing them to withstand more pressure than our natural teeth. We provide our patients with many restorative options, and help them choose which option best fits their needs.

Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-4 Implants?

Any patient can be considered for All-on-4 implants and scheduling a consultation with us is the first step towards beautiful teeth. Typically candidates for All-on-4 implants are missing some or most of the teeth along the dental ridge. Other candidates may be struggling with their dentures and are looking for a quick solution.

During our examination process our dental implant specialist will check to make sure the patient has enough gum tissue and jaw structure to support the implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to provide the additional support required. All-on-4 implants are a great option for patients that want a quick restoration solution to improve their smile and overall mouth function.

What Can I Expect During the Healing Process?

Patients can expect a one to two month healing process after their All-on-4 procedure. With All-on-4 implants the healing process tends to be quicker compared to other options. The healing period gives the implants time to fuse to the jawbone. After your implants are placed we recommend patients follow a liquid diet for the first few days. Patients can move to a soft food diet, and eventually resume normal activity. We do require patients to return to our office for periodic follow up visits. This ensures the implants are healing properly.

Looking for ALL ON 4 IMPLANTS Near You?

Our team of doctors and staff can help you get that perfect smile you have always wanted. We provide our patients with many restorative options, and help you choose the option that best fits your needs. Our patients are our priority, and our team will go above and beyond to make your experience the very best.

If you are interested in finding out more about all-on-4 implants near you, contact us today and our friendly staff will be happy to set up your initial implant consultation.

What Are the Benefits of Mini Dental Implants?

Mini Dental Implant

Mini dental implants are similar to traditional dental implants, but they are used for narrow or smaller spaces. This type of implant is perfect for patients that naturally have smaller teeth. Mini dental implants can be used for single tooth restorations or full arch restorations. The procedure for mini dental implants is typically less invasive compared to traditional implants, and is usually a less expensive option.

Traditional dental implants are made of two pieces. The first piece is a screw that acts like the tooth’s root, and the second is an abutment piece or connector that holds the crown in place. Mini dental implants only have one piece that is screwed down into the jawbone. The implant has a ball on top, and this is what allows the crown to affix securely to the implant.

If you have been recommended for mini dental implants there are many benefits to consider.

What Are the Benefits of Mini Dental Implants?

  • Mini dental implants are more affordable compared to other implant solutions.
  • Healing time tends to be reduced because the procedure for mini dental implants is not as involved.
  • The procedure is less invasive compared to other options.
  • Bone grafting may not be needed with mini dental implants even if the patient’s jaw has low bone density.
  • Provide a quality solution for single tooth restorations as well as smaller spaces.
  • Mini dental implants can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene at home.

Am I A Good Candidate for Mini Dental Implants?

Patients that tend to have bone loss are typically good candidates for mini dental implants. Other criteria we look at include patients that do not smoke, grind their teeth, or have gum disease. If patients smoke or have other medical conditions, this increases the chance of implant failure.

During our detailed consultation process we will discuss what the requirements are, and take a good look at your teeth and mouth. This will allow our team to recommend which restorative solution is best for you.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about mini dental implants and if they are the right choice for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. This will give us the opportunity to take a detailed look at your mouth and teeth, and determine what solution is right for you. Taking that next step to a beautiful smile is easy, and our team is here to help.

To schedule your implant consultation please contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

How Painful is the Dental Implant Process?

Dental Implant Process

Patients that choose to move forward with the dental implant process wonder how painful the procedure will be. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and are a great restorative solution for those that have missing, cracked, or broken teeth. Our customized treatment plans work for each patient’s needs, and we work closely with our patients every step of the way.

Overall, the implant process is not painful. Many patients say that the dental implant process is less painful than having a tooth pulled. To keep patients comfortable we use local anesthesia and numb the gums around the implant area. Our team also checks to make sure each patient has enough bone present in their jaw to support their new implants. If necessary, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required in their jaw. This is an extra step in the process and does require additional healing.

How Is the Implant Healing Process?

The healing process for dental implants takes between 4-6 months. Antibiotics may be recommended to patients, as well as pain relievers to help with the healing process.

After Your Implant Procedure You May Have the Following

  • Minor bleeding that should subside after a day or two.
  • Minor swelling or bruising around the face and implant area.
  • Some pain or sensitivity around the implant area.

If patients notice any pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, or gets progressively worse we encourage you to contact our office immediately. You will need to be seen in our office as soon as possible. During the healing process soft foods are recommended, and patients should stay away from foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.

Dental implants can last up to 25 years or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. The pain associated with the dental implant process can be kept at a minimum by following the at home care instructions. Implants are a great choice for patients seeking a beautiful smile that is permanent and will last for years.

Interested in Finding Out More?

To find out more, scheduling your implant consultation is the first step towards a beautiful smile. Our team is available to answer any questions, and our detailed consultation process allows our team to take a close look at your mouth and teeth. We will build a customized treatment plan and get you on the road to a beautiful smile.

To schedule your implant consultation contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What are the Types of Dental Implants?

Dental Implant

If you have been recommended for dental implants you may be overwhelmed with all of the implant choices available. Our team can help you choose which implant works best for you and discuss what your options are.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are similar to an artificial tooth root that is placed in the jaw bone. The implants serve as a base for one or many artificial teeth or crowns. Implants can be used to help patients with missing teeth and can be personalized to fit each patient’s needs.

What Are The Types of Dental Implants?

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant used today. This type of implant acts like an artificial tooth root that is placed in the jaw bone. These implants create a base for one or many artificial teeth or crowns that are affixed on top. During the implant process healing time is needed for the implant to fuse to the jawbone. This type of implant is durable, long lasting, and a popular choice.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are a good alternative to endosteal implants. This type of implant sits on top of the jawbone, but is still under the gum line. Using a metal frame the post is attached and the gum then heals around the frame. This allows the implant to be held securely in place. Artificial teeth or crowns are then placed on top of the poles that are in the gum area. In many cases this type of implant is used if patients do not have enough jawbone to support endosteal implants. Bone grafting can be done to provide the additional bone needed, but some patients choose to not go through that process.

What Are My Alternatives?

If a patient’s jawbone cannot support dental implants there are techniques available to help rebuild the jawbone and create a stable foundation for implants.

  • Bone Augmentation – This procedure helps to restore or regenerate bone in the jaw when a patient does not have enough to support an implant. This process is very successful, and many patients choose this process in order to get those implants they have always wanted.
  • Sinus Lift – A sinus lift can add bone below the sinus cavity to help that area if bone has deteriorated.
  • Ridge Expansion – Bone grafting material can be added along the top of the jaw or small ridge to help make your jaw wide enough to support dental implants.

What Are Other Dental Implant Options?

  • Mini Dental Implants – Mini dental implants are similar to traditional dental implants, but they are used for smaller spaces. Patients that have naturally smaller teeth may find that mini dental implants fit them best. This procedure is less invasive and tends to be less expensive compared to other options. Mini dental implants are made of one solid piece that is screwed into the jawbone. Each implant has a ball on top and this allows the crown to be secured.
  • Immediate Load Dental Implants or Teeth In a Day – This type of implant process allows the placement of the crown or temporary tooth at the same time as the dental implant. Patients that have sufficient bone structure in the jaw are good candidates for this option.
  • All-On-4 Implants – All-on-4 implants provide patients with implants in just one appointment. With this option implants are not required for each tooth. Four implants are placed, and this makes the process easier and less invasive. Bone grafting is not needed with this option, and temporary teeth can be placed that same day. With this option there is a healing process while the implants fuse to the bone. Once the healing process is complete, permanent teeth can be placed.

Are You Interested in Learning More About Dental Implants?

Our staff is here to help you choose which dental implant option works best for you. With our high-end technology and implant surgical software, the implant process is faster and more efficient. Our team provides the very best care to our patients, and we are here to support you throughout the implant process.

To find out what dental implant option is best for you, contact our office and our friendly staff can schedule your consultation. Let us help you take that first step to a beautiful smile!