Losing teeth can affect more than just the look of your smile. It can change the way you chew, speak and feel in social situations. If you’re weighing your options, it can seem like a natural place to start to see the best orthodontist in Katy TX, particularly if you’re worried about the alignment of your teeth too. At Katy Lakes Dentistry, patients can discuss their particular dental needs to find out if an implant, orthodontic treatment or alternative treatment is right for them.
Start With the Problem, Not the Procedure
When a tooth is missing, it is easy to think about replacing it right away. But the right treatment depends on why your tooth is missing, what condition the teeth around it are in and your gums’ and jawbone’s health.
Your dentist may recommend that you get an exam and the proper imaging before talking about your treatment options. This helps determine if the area can support an implant and if other treatment needs to be completed first.
What Makes an Implant Different?
A dental implant is not just an artificial tooth sitting above the gums.
The implant itself is placed in the jaw bone and acts as an anchor for a replacement tooth. Once the healing is complete, a crown or other restoration can be placed to provide a functional replacement.
When Might an Implant Be a Good Option?
Dental implants may be an option when a tooth is missing and the conditions of the adjacent tissues are suitable for treatment.
Your dentist may consider a number of factors including:
- Amount and condition of available jaw bone
- Gum health
- Status of neighboring teeth
- Your good oral hygiene maintenance ability
- Location of the missing tooth
- Your general dental and health considerations
If there is not enough bone support or there is an active dental problem, additional treatment may be needed prior to placing an implant.
Could an Implant Be a Long Term Solution?
Dental implants in Katy, TX are considered by patients because of their ability to provide a stable, long term replacement for a missing tooth.
But an implant is not maintenance free. Good brushing, cleaning between the teeth, regular dental examinations and professional care are still vital. The health of the surrounding gums and tissues can influence the longevity of the implant.
Patients should also understand that implant treatment includes a healing period. The final restoration can only be placed once the implant has had enough time to integrate with the surrounding bone.
What Are Your Alternatives?
An implant isn’t always the best solution for every patient.
Your dentist will discuss other options based on your situation such as a dental bridge or a removable partial denture. The recommendations you receive will depend on the number and location of your missing teeth, your oral health, your treatment preferences and your budget.
At Katy Lakes Dentistry, patients can get these options explained to them and learn the pros and cons of each so they can make an educated decision.
A Personalized Evaluation Matters
There isn’t a universally applicable answer to the question of whether or not dental implants are the best choice. The right solution will depend on the condition of your mouth and what you want to achieve with your treatment.
When you look for Dental implants in Katy, TX, a dentist will examine you to see if you are a suitable candidate and what the treatment will involve.
If you have concerns about the alignment of your teeth as well, you might want to speak with the best orthodontist in Katy TX to learn if orthodontic treatment should be part of your overall dental plan. At Katy Lakes Dentistry, patients can look at their options and make decisions about treatment based on their individual dental needs.