Coppell Dentist Answers Dental Implant FAQs

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are a restorative option that can replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures and bridgework that occupy the space above the gum line, dental implants are inserted into the jaw and become an integrated part of the natural bone tissue. Dental implants consist of two basic parts: the surgical implant itself and the prosthetic that your Coppell prosthodonstics expert, Dr. Heeje Lee, places on top of the implant. Crowns, bridges, and even full or partial dentures can be secured with dental implants to help restore the appearance, health, and function of your mouth.

What Happens During a Dental Implant Procedure?

This procedure requires two main phases:

• Planning and Implantation: Using state-of-the-art 3D imaging software, Dr. Lee can plan out the optimal positioning of the implant. After planning, Dr. Lee surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Because Dr. Lee is qualified to perform both phases of the dental implant procedure, you do not have to deal with the inconvenience of visiting a separate oral surgeon. Dr. Lee performs implantation in-house at Evergreen Dental.
• Prosthetic Placement: After allowing the implant to fully integrate with the jaw bone, a process requiring anywhere from 3-6 months, you return to the office for prosthetic placement. Dr. Lee creates many of his custom-fitted prosthetics in his onsite lab, saving you time. After securing your crown, bridge, or denture into place, you can enjoy the benefits of a full set of teeth immediately.

What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

Like any dental restoration, dental implants help correct gaps in the dental arch that could lead to serious problems such as an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease and problems associated with bad alignment, such as worn enamel, damaged cheek and tongue tissue, and the development of TMJ dysfunction. However, implants offer several advantages above and beyond traditional prosthetic restorations:

• Dental implants return optimal functionality to your mouth. Because they mimic the crown-and-root structure of a natural tooth, they provide the exact same stability of real teeth. In fact, most patients who have dental implants forget that not all their teeth are real.
• Dental implants help to maintain the health of your jawbone. When you lose a tooth, the bone structure underlying the gap begins to deteriorate, causing the soft tissues to sink inward and increasing your risk of developing osteoarthritis. Because dental implants take the place of the tooth root, the pressure needed to maintain healthy bone density remains stable and you do not experience bone loss.

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dr. Heeje Lee will base your treatment plan on several factors, including your general health, oral and bone health, lifestyle needs, and budgetary concerns. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee to discuss your options, call us at (972) 315-0811. Our Coppell dentist office provides service to patients from Lewisville, Grapevine, Flower Mound, Irving, and all surrounding communities.

Make Your Appointment Today

To experience the benefits of modern general dentistry and prosthodontics in Coppell, TX, contact Dr. Heeje Lee at (972) 315-0811. Evergreen Dental welcomes patients from Coppell, Lewisville, Grapevine, Flower Mound, Irving, and the nearby communities.