Replace Your Missing Teeth
Dental Implants Austin Permanently Replacing Missing Teeth
If you searched for Austin Dental Implants or Dental Implants Austin, you found the right place. We have placed and restored missing teeth with dental implants for thousands of our patients. To answer the question: Are dental implants the right choice for me and more, please continue reading.
When it comes to teeth replacement, dental implants are widely considered the most reliable and successful option available today. Versatile in their use, implants can support a variety of restorations, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. Fortunately, Dr. Helen Ragsdale places and restores Austin dental implants at our practice. With over 25 years of experience, she is well-equipped to address a variety of dental needs in a friendly, comfortable, and informative environment.
Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. A metal screw made of either medical grade Titanium or Titanium Alloy is threaded into the jawbone and functions as the root of the tooth. A prosthetic tooth is then attached to the screw, and in about 3 to 4 months the bone will fuse to the implant in a process referred to as 'osseointegration.'
The Dental Implant
This screw-like device is made from biocompatible, medical-grade titanium and is surgically inserted into the jawbone. As it heals, the implant will fuse with the surrounding bone tissue, creating an incredibly strong support base.
The Abutment
After the implant has healed, the abutment is attached. This component will help stabilize the replacement tooth.
The Restoration
Restorations replace the visible portion of the missing tooth and include porcelain dental crowns, bridgework, partial dentures, and even full dentures that your Austin dentist secures to the implant and abutment. Restorations are highly realistic and constructed from durable materials.
Austin dental implant questions answered
What are dental implants?
Simply stated, dental implants are small threaded posts crafted from medical-grade titanium. They are designed to replace the roots of missing teeth and are placed into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. Generally, once implants are positioned in the jaw, a few months of healing is required. During this time, the bone will fuse to the posts in a process called osseointegration, providing a strong, sturdy foundation for your new restorations.
Why do I need to replace my missing teeth?
Every single aspect of your smile works in harmony for optimal oral health. When one element is missing or is not working properly, it can lead to further problems. When tooth roots are present, their micromovements send signals to the nerves within the jaw, keeping the bone dense and healthy. When a tooth is removed, the jawbone in that area no longer receives signals. As a result, bone deterioration occurs over time. If left untreated, this can cause noticeable changes in the facial features, such as hollowed cheeks or a gaunt appearance. More importantly, however, it can have a serious negative impact on your chewing function and overall oral health.
What are the benefits of Dental Implants?
Individuals who choose dental implants can enjoy numerous benefits. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants offers:
- Improved function: Because dental implants integrate with the natural bone tissue, they become one with the body. This strong foundation allows for optimal chewing function with restorations that will not shift, wobble, or slip out of place.
- Enhanced aesthetics: Today’s high-quality dental materials allow us to craft incredibly lifelike restorations. Whether you need a single dental crown, a bridge, or full-arch teeth replacement, dental implants can offer a natural-looking result you are sure to love.
- Bone retention: Dental implants are the first restorative option to replace the roots of missing teeth. This feature actively preserves your existing bone structure and prevents bone atrophy in the future.
Why should I choose dental implants over dentures?
Patients who have worn dentures for a prolonged period of time understand the many challenges that can accompany this type of prostheses. For example, because traditional dentures are supported by the gums and underlying bone ridge, the fit can loosen drastically over time as these structures change. As a result, conventional dentures can shift around or slip out of place during routine tasks such as chewing or speaking. Dental implants can be used to stabilize dentures or support fixed full-arch restorations. In fact, many of our patients have opted for this type of upgrade. The result is a beautiful, natural-looking prosthesis that will not move or wobble.
What is the cost of dental implants?
Choosing dental implants is a significant investment. The total cost of treatment will depend on a number of factors, including:
- Number of implants placed
- Preparatory procedures
- Materials used
- Experience and education of the surgeon
- And much more
Every single patient is completely unique. Therefore, treatment and cost can vary for everyone. During a consultation with Dr. Ragsdale, she can help you determine a treatment plan to fit your needs and budget.
We only use genuine Nobel and Straumann Dental Implants. A single dental implant starts at $3,900.
How to Make dental implants affordable in Austin
Most dental insurance companies do not cover dental implant surgery but for prospective implant patients, financing your procedure may be desirable. We want to help make your dental implants affordable.
CareCredit is North America's leading patient payment program. CareCredit lets you begin your treatment immediately then pay for it over time with low monthly payments that are easy to fit into your monthly budget. CareCredit offers a full range of No Interest and Extended Payment Plans for treatment fees from $1 to over $25,000.
With CareCredit, you will pay no up-front costs, no pre-payment penalties and no fees. In addition, CareCredit is a revolving credit line for additional treatment or add-on charges, without the need to re-apply. It only takes a few minutes to apply for CareCredit and you can receive an online decision in seconds! Apply now.
How to get dental implants in Austin
Dr. Ragsdale is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to every one of her patients. Implant dentistry is the perfect way for her to help you rebuild your smile. For a permanent tooth replacement solution, call our office today and see how we can help you attain a beautiful white smile without compromising your lifestyle.
Additional Information About Dental Implants
The American Academy of Periodontology provides additional information about dental implants.