Clint A. Clements, DDS
Clint A. Clements, DDS
303 E. Hildebrand Ave., Ste. 3
San Antonio, TX 78212
ph: 210-828-6357
fax: 210-828-7460
dr_cleme
Implants
Dental implants are an artificial means of tooth replacement used to counteract tooth loss. They are among the most reliable and successful restorations done in dentistry today.
Implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss. They can be used for single tooth replacement, serve as an anchor for an implant supported bridge and even used to stabilize dentures.
Dental implants are osseointegrated, meaning the bone adheres to them making them very stable. The bone reacts as though the implant is an actual root and maintains itself to help hold the implant in place. People who do not replace missing teeth WILL have bone loss in that area. This could become a major problem as they age and the bone "melts away". A dental implant will cause the bone to stay and not deteriorate away.
The placement of an implant is a team effort and is coordinated through and placed by a periodontist to get the best outcome possible. The periodontist will place the actual implant and monitor it until it is ready to be restored by us. We work with only the most talented and respected periodontists in San Antonio. We will not send you to anywhere we would not send our own family.
How long do implants take from beginning to end?
A: Actual placement takes about an hour. The healing time is usually about 3-4 months from placement to restoration.
Do they hurt?
A: No, Absolutely NOT! Dental implants are very comfortable when placed. Different sedation techniques can be used depending on how anxious or nervous you are. Typically, implant placement feels like a bunch of vibrations in your mouth and many people are sedated using local anesthesia only.
How reliable are implants?
A: Implants are meant to be a permanent means of tooth replacement. With proper care and maintainence, they could and should last a lifetime. Implants are in fact the most reliable thing a dentist can place in the mouth.
Why should I get an implant over a bridge?
A: An implant solely depends on itself and not other teeth. If something goes wrong with an implant, you treat it accordingly. Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth because neighboring teeth are not altered nor do they support the implant. If something goes wrong with a bridge, you might have to redo the whole bridge. Also, an implant will help maintain your bone in that area where a bridge will not.
Am I a candidate for an implant?
A: The ideal candidate for an implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone and healthly gum tissue is needed to support the implant.
Clint A. Clements, DDS
303 E. Hildebrand Ave., Ste. 3
San Antonio, TX 78212
ph: 210-828-6357
fax: 210-828-7460
dr_cleme
