Not so long ago, dental implants in Arlington and elsewhere were an exception to the rule. They were available, but not commonplace.
That has all changed. A dental implant – a procedure in which a missing tooth is replaced by an artificial tooth attached the patient’s jaw – provides many critical advantages over a dental bridge or dentures:
Longevity – Dental implants are tough and permanent, meaning with proper care they can last ten years or more.
Seamless – Fabricated to have the same shape, size and color of the original tooth, an implant blends seamlessly with all the other teeth. If the original tooth had aesthetic issues, these can typically be repaired with the implant crown.
Function – A dental implant functions like a natural tooth allowing for normal eating and speaking.
Convenience – Unlike dentures, no adhesives, rinsing, or removal is needed.
Independent – A dental implant is treated individually. No damaging of adjacent teeth is required, as with dental bridges. Cleaning is easier than with most dental bridges which can require the threading of floss under and around the artificial tooth.
The tooth implant treatment plan
For his Arlington, TX-area patient missing a tooth, Dr. Stephen Ratcliff carries out an exam. If it is determined that the patient is a good candidate for the procedure, the process begins.
Plaster dental impressions of upper and lower plates are taken. Dr. Ratcliff will precisely place the titanium implant, which looks like a dark screw, into the bone of your jaw. Over the next couple of months, the bone and implant will bond to form a new root for your new tooth.
After enough time has passed, an extension (called an abutment) is placed on top of the initial implant post. This extension is capped with a temporary tooth. Meanwhile, the team of professionals at our lab will tailor a new, permanent crown.
Finally, Dr. Ratcliff puts the beautiful permanent crown on top of the full post. This tooth will match the other teeth to create an extraordinary new smile. You will find that the comfort is the same as a natural teeth, to the point that you may even forget which tooth is the implant. The upkeep is the same, with brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups necessary.
To find out whether a tooth implant is the right option for you, or to find out about other procedures at Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, give our office a call. We look forward to meeting you!
Contact Stephen Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry:
817-274-7875
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
909 W Mitchell St
Arlington, Texas
76013
