Dr. Graves, Dr. Wilkinson, and Dr. Gonzalez Aguilar take the time to make sure that every patient feels cared for, which includes educating patients about their treatment options. When patients come to Amarillo Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants to explore their options for tooth replacement, dental implants are a popular solution. There are three parts to a dental implant: the screw or post, the abutment, and the crown. The post is made of medical-grade titanium and acts just like a natural tooth’s root. The abutment is the connecting piece that attaches the crown to the post, and the crown is custom-made to look just like a natural tooth. Dental implants can also be used to support a full arch of teeth with 4-Hour Smile.
4 Benefits of Dental Implants
A dental implant replaces the root of the tooth. Just like a natural tooth’s root, a dental implant post stimulates the jaw bone and prevents bone loss from occurring around the missing tooth site. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift out of alignment. Dental implants can prevent this shifting process and preserve the integrity of the rest of the teeth. Many people with missing teeth find it difficult to smile and laugh with confidence. Restoring a smile with dental implants restores confidence for many patients.
Dental implants are easy to care for—just brush and floss regularly.
Dental Implant Placement Procedure: What to Expect
Dental implant placements are usually a joint effort between an oral surgeon and a dentist. During your first visit, we will discuss your anesthesia and sedation options and take 3D CBCT scans of your teeth to determine the right dental implant treatment option for you.
After the anesthesia has been administered, your oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum and place the dental implant into the empty tooth socket. If a tooth is extracted, the dental implant may be placed during that same procedure. The connecting abutment is either added now or further along in the healing process, and you may be given a temporary tooth to wear. Your jaw bone will fuse with the implant post over time; when you are ready, your dentist will place the custom-made crown.
X-Guide™ Dynamic 3D Navigation
Our state-of-the-art office is equipped with advanced technology, including the X-Guide navigation system, developed by X-NAV Technologies. This revolutionary system extends beyond the capabilities of a CBCT scan and creates a 3D roadmap for dental implant placement, providing turn-by-turn guidance and improving the accuracy of implant position, angle, and depth. Your surgeon has a 360-degree view of the drill position and your anatomy during surgery, which provides them with more control and information during procedures. Learn more about this advanced implant navigation technology on the official X-NAV website.
Types of Dental Implants
Zirconia Implants
A zirconia dental implant is an alternative to traditional metal implant posts and is made of non-metal materials. This is a great option for patients with titanium allergies and offers all the same benefits as traditional dental implants.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are placed directly into the zygomatic bone, or cheek bone, instead of the upper jaw. This is an option for patients who have insufficient bone in the upper jaw and are not candidates for bone grafting and offers all of the same great benefits as traditional dental implants.
Costs of Dental Implants and Other Questions
Your specific dental implant costs will depend on your needs as a patient. The number of implants being placed, the need for additional procedures, the type of anesthesia, your insurance coverage, and other factors can all contribute to the cost. Contact our office for a consultation and an accurate cost estimate. For other questions, take a look at our Dental Implants FAQ page.
Hear From Our Dental Implant Patients
Our dental implant patients have shared their stories with us, and we encourage you to listen to them to hear about the positive experiences others have had at our practice.
Denture Replacement With Dental Implants
Dental implants are a healthy and long-term solution to missing teeth, but some patients choose dentures because they are cheaper upfront and do not require surgery. However, the cost of replacing dentures every few years and having them professionally fitted can add up. Dental implants are an investment in your smile that you benefit from for many years.
If you currently wear dentures, you may qualify for a 4-Hour Smile procedure, which provides you with a brand new implant-supported smile in just a few hours. With a denture attached to dental implant posts, you eliminate the need for moving parts and make it easy to eat and speak with a fully functioning smile. Learn more about your options for denture replacement in Amarillo, TX, by contacting our office.
Hear From Dental Implant Patients
These patients can tell you about the firsthand experience undergoing dental implant treatment at our office.
Other Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions about a procedure, financing, or anything else, please reach out to us at any time. Our team is here to help, and we look forward to caring for you and your loved ones.