Dental Implants in Del Rio, TX

A dental implant is a tooth replacement that looks just like a natural tooth. It comprises three main parts: the implant post, an abutment, and the crown. The implant post is made from biocompatible titanium and surgically placed into the jawbone. An abutment is then used to attach the implant to the crown or another tooth replacement.

Many of our patients at Cadena Dentistry choose implants because they’re a permanent solution for tooth loss and the next best thing to natural teeth. Dental implants provide a sturdy foundation for attaching tooth replacements such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. 

The Benefits of Dental Implants 

Improved Appearance 

Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are customized to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking smile. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur when teeth are missing. 

Enhanced Functionality 

Dental implants restore the full functionality of your mouth. Unlike dentures, which can slip or shift when you are eating or speaking, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone. This allows you to bite, chew, and speak with confidence, just as you would with natural teeth. 

Bone Health and Preservation 

When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone may deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping preserve bone density and prevent bone loss. This maintains the overall strength and structure of the jawbone. 

The Dental Implant Procedure 

Our dentists will evaluate your oral health, examine the area where the tooth is missing, and take dental X-rays or scans to assess the bone density and structure. Our dentists will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs based on the examination results. This plan will outline the number of implants required and the type of restoration suitable for you.

The first step in the dental implant procedure is the minor surgical procedure performed to place the implant into the jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. The dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone and then create a small hole in the bone to insert the implant. The gum tissue is then stitched back together. 

After the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration takes place. Over the next few months, the bone fuses with the implant's surface, providing a stable and secure anchor for the prosthetic tooth. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, minor surgery is performed to attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment is a connector piece that protrudes through the gum line and serves as a base for the artificial tooth.

Finally, after the gums have healed and the abutment is in place, a dental prosthesis (crown, bridge, or denture) is fabricated to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The prosthesis is then attached to the abutment, restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile. 

If you’re missing one or more teeth and are interested in dental implants, visit Cadena Dentistry at 606 N Bedell Ave, Del Rio, TX 78840, or call (830) 775-3322. We can assess your candidacy for the procedure and help determine the best restoration option to meet your needs and goals.