Everything to Know About Replacing a Tooth With An Implant Replacing a tooth with an implant is a common, long-lasting way to restore your smile. This article explains what replacing a tooth with an implant means, who is a good candidate, the step-by-step process, benefits, risks, costs, and what to expect at your consultation. You’ll also learn why Dental Specialists & Implant Center in The Woodlands, TX offers advanced options if an implant is right for you.
What is replacing a tooth with an implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium or ceramic post placed into the jaw to act as a tooth root. An abutment connects the implant to a crown, which looks like a natural tooth. Together, the implant, abutment, and crown replace both the root and the visible tooth, restoring chewing and appearance.
Who is a good candidate?
Good candidates are generally healthy adults with enough jawbone to support an implant and healthy gums. Factors that affect candidacy include overall medical health, uncontrolled diabetes, active gum disease, smoking, and some medications that affect bone healing. Your dentist will review your health history and mouth to decide if implants are safe for you.
When bone grafts or extra care are needed
If you’ve had a missing tooth for a while, bone may shrink. Bone grafts, ridge augmentation, or a sinus lift (for upper back teeth) can rebuild bone so an implant fits securely. These steps add time to treatment but help ensure long-term success.
Step-by-step: the implant process
First is a consultation with imaging and medical review. Next, the implant is placed into the jaw during a short surgical visit. After placement, you wait for healing, called osseointegration, when bone bonds to the implant. Finally, the abutment and custom crown are attached to complete the tooth.
What happens during healing
Healing usually takes 3–6 months, depending on bone quality and location. Signs of good healing include minimal pain after a few days, stable gum tissue, and no persistent swelling or fever. Your provider will monitor progress with follow-up visits and X-rays.
Benefits of replacing a tooth with an implant
Implants are durable, feel like natural teeth, and restore chewing power. They preserve jawbone by stimulating bone, which prevents shrinkage. Implants also avoid altering adjacent teeth, unlike bridges, and generally look more natural than removable dentures.
Comparison with bridges and dentures
Bridges are faster but require cutting healthy teeth and don’t stop bone loss under the missing tooth. Dentures are less expensive short-term but can slip and need replacement. Implants cost more up front but often last longer and protect oral health.
Risks, complications, and recovery
Common risks include infection, minor bleeding, and implant failure if bone doesn’t integrate. Rare complications include nerve injury or sinus problems. Recovery is usually mild with over-the-counter pain control and short rest.
Aftercare and long-term maintenance
Brush and floss daily, avoid hard foods at first, and keep regular dental visits. Smoking and poor oral hygiene raise the chance of failure. With good care, implants can last decades.
Cost, insurance, and financing basics
Costs vary by location, implant type, need for grafts, and lab work. Insurance sometimes covers part of the crown or related procedures. Many practices offer payment plans or third-party financing to spread costs.
What to expect at your implant consultation
Expect a medical review, digital X-rays, and often CBCT imaging to map bone and nerves. A personalized plan will outline steps, timeline, and costs so you can choose the best option.
Why choose Dental Specialists & Implant Center?
Dental Specialists & Implant Center in The Woodlands, TX uses CBCT imaging, an in-house lab, laser tools, and biocompatible ceramic implant options. These technologies help deliver precise, comfortable care and predictable results.
Meet Dr. Adriana Wells
Dr. Adriana Wells is a board-certified periodontist with advanced implant training and education at Harvard. She focuses on minimally invasive, evidence-based care and whole-body health.
Ready to talk about replacing a tooth with an implant?
If you’re considering replacing a tooth with an implant in The Woodlands, TX, schedule a consultation to learn your options and get a personalized plan. A short visit can answer questions and set the next steps.
