Losing a tooth can feel overwhelming. It affects how you smile, how you chew, and ultimately, how you feel about yourself. If you are looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth, dental implants are widely considered the gold standard in restorative dentistry. But is this treatment right for you?
At Oak Hills Dentistry in Spring, TX, Dr. Reagan Smith and his team specialize in restoring smiles with high-quality dental implants. As one of the area’s top dentists, Dr. Smith brings exceptional expertise to every procedure. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health School of Dentistry in San Antonio and has dedicated his career to providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
If you are considering this life-changing procedure, here is a checklist for success to help you determine if you are a prime candidate.
The Candidate Checklist: Are You Ready?
A worthy dental implant candidate typically has good oral health, sufficient jawbone density, healthy gums, and a commitment to maintaining excellent dental hygiene post-procedure
While most adults can safely undergo the implant procedure, specific criteria determine the long-term success of your new smile. Dr. Smith evaluates three main pillars during your initial consultation.
1. Healthy Gums are Essential
The foundation of a successful implant is healthy gum tissue. Periodontal disease (gum disease) can cause the bone around the implant to recede, leading to failure. Before moving forward with surgery, your gums must be free of infection. If you have active gum disease, don’t worry—Dr. Smith can help you treat it first to prepare your mouth for implants.
2. Sufficient Bone Density
Implants work by fusing directly with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This provides the stability needed to chew and speak confidently. If you have been missing a tooth for a long time, your jawbone may have weakened or shrunk.
During your visit to our Spring, TX office, we use advanced imaging to assess your bone volume. If your bone density is low, you might still be a candidate after a bone grafting procedure to strengthen the area.
3. Good Overall Health
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, so your general health matters. Chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease can affect healing. Additionally, habits like smoking can slow down the recovery process and increase the risk of implant failure. Being honest about your medical history helps Dr. Smith create the safest treatment plan for you.
Understanding the Dental Implant Process
Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety about the procedure. At Oak Hills Dentistry, we guide you through every step of the journey.
- Consultation & Planning: It starts with a conversation. Dr. Reagan Smith examines your mouth, takes 3D scans, and discusses your goals.
- Implant Placement: The titanium post (the implant) is surgically placed into your jawbone. This acts as the new “root” for your tooth.
- Healing Phase: Over the next few months, the bone heals around the implant, locking it in place.
- Abutment & Restoration: Once healed, a connector piece called an abutment is attached. Finally, your custom-made crown is placed on top. This crown looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
Take the Next Step for Your Smile
You don’t have to live with gaps in your smile. With the right preparation and expert care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dr. Reagan Smith is committed to helping patients in Spring, TX regain their confidence and oral function.
Ready to find out if you qualify? Schedule your consultation with Oak Hills Dentistry today and start your journey toward a complete, healthy smile.
Contact Oak Hills Dentistry:
281-350-8852
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2525 Louetta Rd, Ste 100, Spring, TX
Spring, Texas
77388