Maintaining Dental Implants: 5 Tips for Long-Term Success
In a perfect world, everyone would love to keep all their natural teeth intact. However, tooth loss affects millions of Americans, disrupting…
Continue ReadingWhen teeth are lost or must be removed due to irreparable decay/damage, it can leave behind a big space in your smile – as well as a lack of confidence and a poor self-image in addition to the emotional toll that tooth loss takes on our patients in Austin, Texas, problems with speaking or eating may only get worse with time. You are taking the first and right steps by considering Walden Dental as your partner in restorative dentistry. Our highly skilled and experienced dentist, Dr. David Frank, offers complete dental implant care, a top-of-the-line method to replace missing teeth.
In addition to the above-mentioned complications, teeth tend to shift toward the empty space. Plus, you may depend on other teeth more due to the loss of a single tooth. This can result in “over-use” or damage to other teeth. Imbalances in the smile can also result in TMJ symptoms, such as facial and jaw pain and chronic migraines. Last but not least, tooth loss promotes the destructive process of bone loss. The jawbone can actually shrink due to a lack of stimulation from the teeth. The loss of facial structure can “age” you and also have a considerable negative effect on chewing and other functions.
The dental implant “mimics” the structure of the roots of the teeth. It is made from a biocompatible (tissue-friendly) material like titanium. Due to their biocompatibility, implants are designed to naturally grow or join the surrounding bone once positioned in the jaw. The implant can then properly “anchor” the prosthetic tooth, like a natural root.
Implants are the method of tooth replacement that best “mimics” or replicates the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. That’s because they are the only option that replaces both the root and the crown or part of the tooth visible above the gum line when you smile. Conventional bridges and dentures only replace those visible parts of the teeth, the crowns, and (in the case of dentures) the gummy tissue. Due to the presence of artificial tooth roots (the implant itself), your bone also remains strong. The effects of bone loss are avoided.
Many different types of patients have and are continuing to enjoy their new implant teeth for years after they were first placed! With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. However, all treatments start with a consultation/full evaluation. Notably, we need to assess the condition of your jawbone. If bone loss is present, no worries. Dr. Frank will explore options like bone grafting to build a solid foundation for implants and, later, the restorations visible in your smile.
Implants may be restored at other dentists’ offices in Austin, TX, and beyond, but they cannot be placed. At Walden Dental, we provide all steps in the implant process, from planning and placement to restoration and post-treatment needs. This comprehensive care ensures that you are in good hands throughout your implant journey, leading to a convenient, hassle-free, and cost-effective experience. Start the process today by scheduling a consultation. Call Walden Dental at to speak with a member of our team.
They are the tooth replacement method that looks, feels and functions most like natural teeth. They allow you to eat, laugh, and talk naturally without slipping, sliding, or clicking, like most replacement methods. They also help maintain your jawbone, so your face structure won’t change.
If you are in good health, you should be able to get implants. Your dentist will determine your suitability by assessing your oral health and the quality and amount of your jawbone.
The success of implants depends mainly on the quality and amount of jawbone you have. If you don’t have sufficient bone, your dentist may first perform a bone graft.
They are made of bio-inert titanium (root) and ceramics (crown).
You need to take care of your implants the same way you care for your natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups are vital. With proper care, your implants can last for life.
Cecilia knew there was a problem with a wiggly front tooth that had a root canal years prior. Unfortunately, the last meal that included bread was the final straw and her entire crown and post came out the day before her weekend travel to a wedding.











Pre-op Xray of fractured root and missing crown











Post-op of same day extraction, implant placement, and maryland bridge for immediate same day temporary fixed front tooth.







Same day result with extraction, implant placement, and temporary fixed bridge.







Final implant crown after healing for 3 months and removing temporary bridge






