Dental Implants in Houston
What Are Dental Implants?
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.
Time is allowed for the bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.
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Surgical Advances
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Moya or Dr. Maida is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
We are currently living in the best possible time for dental implants. Houston Oral Surgery Associate’s diagnostic and treatment equipment allow us to be precise and non-invasive making the procedure short, predictable and the recovery very simple. Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are currently the best standard of care for tooth replacement. They are designed to provide a foundation which look, feels and functions just like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved so they can smile with confidence.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Drs. Moya or Maida performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Dental Implants Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
Dental Implants Patient Testimonials
Houston Oral Surgery Associates
Patient Review By Bernie B
Patient Review By Bernie B I needed a dental procedure that required surgery and was referred to Dr. Maida. I was scheduled consultation appointments with Dr. Maida that resulted in my realizing I wanted him to perform the surgery. He is extremely patient and has no problem answering any number of questions. He and his surgical staff eventually performed the surgery and did an excellent job. Several follow up visits were scheduled to monitor the healing process which is going well I am extremely satisfied with the complete experience......... I highly recommend Dr. Maida. Words about the entire staff, they all are very professional, friendly and accommodating. I feel as if I am part of a family when I am there which is a wonderful feeling. Houston Oral Surgery Associates is a great place for dental procedures.
- Bernie B
Patient Review By Amanda M
I initially came to Dr. Moya to have my wisdom teeth extracted and have since had another tooth extracted, a bone graft, and an implant. From scheduling to dealing with insurance, the staff is always very easy to communicate with and things are done in an efficient manner. I appreciate that there are people on staff that have been there for several years, it makes me more comfortable in my treatment. The office is well located and comfortable to be in, and appointments move quickly. They are very mindful of your time and I have never had a long wait time in the office. I tend to have a lot of anxiety surrounding dental procedures and Dr. Moya explains things well and puts me at ease. And over the years I have never had a problem with pain or recovery in any of my procedures.
- Amanda M