Dental Implants, Sugar Land, TX

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Dr. Stephen Watson has received extensive training in Implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1994 and through continuing education, is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.

Dr. Watson uses Straumann dental implants. They utilize a one-stage surgical procedure, which saves precious time and the discomfort of a second surgery. You can visit the Straumann website.

Implant Dentistry Evaluation in Sugar Land, TX

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.

Dental Implant Procedures

Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves only one surgical procedure. Implants are placed within your jawbone and then allowed to heal for the first three to six months following surgery. An immediate implant is when the implant is placed in an extraction socket the same day of the extraction. The implants are capped right at the surface of the gumline.

During the healing period (usually around 3 months), the implants are gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. After the healing period is over, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

Your general dentist  will now be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes 3-4 months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Mini-Transitional Dental Implants

With Mini-Transitional Dental Implants, our patients can have teeth immediately following surgery. You don’t have to endure the embarrassment you face by not having teeth or removable temporary restorations during the lengthy osseointegration period. These mini-transitional implants are placed at the same time as the permanent implants and are able to be used immediately (unlike the permanent implants-which require a 3 month healing period). They are much smaller (diameter) than permanent implants and are easily removed at the end of the three month healing period. Your general dentist can use these mini-implants the day of your surgery with either a fixed or removable denture (to hold it in place while the permanent implants are healing).