Does a missing or severely damaged tooth make eating or talking a chore instead of a joy? Are you self-conscious about smiling in public?
Our dentists at Bell Dental can bring back your smile and help prevent future tooth loss with expertly placed dental implants.
A dental implant is a small post, typically titanium, that is inserted into the jaw to act as an artificial tooth root. Dr. Brian K. Bell uses advanced scanning and imaging technology for long-lasting results at our Lake Jackson dental office. Once a dental implant has been surgically placed, your own body secures it in place naturally by growing bone around it. The implant is then topped with an abutment, or connector piece, so it can support a restoration.
Dental implants can support an individual crown to replace a single tooth, a bridge for multiple teeth in a row, or dentures for a full arch of natural teeth. After our lifelike restorations are secured to the implant, they function just like the real thing. Denture wearers are especially thankful that they won't have to worry about their teeth slipping and embarrassing them. For patients, it's like having their natural teeth back again.
To replace a missing tooth, a titanium dental implant is placed in the jaw and topped with a connector piece called an abutment. Once the dental implant has fused with the jawbone, a natural-looking dental crown is then attached to create a complete prosthetic tooth, root to crown. Implant-supported crowns are the most trusted and complete tooth replacement solution in dentistry.
When teeth are lost, the jaw begins to shrink, which can affect the stability of other teeth and your facial features. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that helps prevent jawbone deterioration.
An implant-supported restoration replaces every part of your tooth, from root to crown. It's a complete solution that offers a natural look, fit, and feel. You'll be free to smile whenever you want.
While the visible "tooth" part of your restoration may need to be replaced at some point, the implant supporting it can offer decades' worth of benefits. When properly cared for, implants can last a lifetime.
Implant dentistry is a highly technique-sensitive procedure that requires advanced training. Dr. Bell, a life-long learner, has completed post-graduate studies at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI Global), an international institute that draws dentists from around the world.
Precise implant placement is essential for long-lasting results and requires the use of advanced technology to identify jawbone structures and assess bone density. Dr. Bell uses sophisticated 3D cone-beam imaging technology to pinpoint the best locations for implants. At the same time, he will identify the proper angle and depth for your implants.
Tooth loss carries a lot of emotional baggage for many patients. We show them that no matter how damaged their smiles are, we have techniques that can rebuild them and restore the freedom to smile confidently. Our team works hard to establish a relationship with each patient so they feel comfortable discussing their dental issues and mapping out a solution.
Dental implants require oral surgery, which we know concerns some people. We can assure you that our advanced techniques minimize discomfort. However, we understand that everyone perceives pain differently. If you are anxious or have difficulty sitting for long periods, Bell Dental in Lake Jackson, TX, offers sedation options for maximum comfort.
"We LOVE Dr. Bell! He knows his customers and truly cares that his work is good for his customers & that they are happy! I highly recommend Bell Dental."
Dr. Bell has more than 20 years of experience. In addition to his advanced training at LVI Global, he belongs to prestigious organizations that focus on implant techniques, such as the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. The dentists at Bell Dental have earned a reputation for superior restorative dentistry in Lake Jackson, TX, and throughout Brazoria County.
Working with an expert is important when considering dental implants. Dr. Bell will carefully assess your mouth and go over your health to ensure implants are the right choice for you. Some patients lack the necessary bone density to support an implant. Dr. Bell can usually overcome that obstacle by using advanced implant techniques or performing a bone graft to strengthen your jaw.
Dental implants offer patients a number of solutions for missing teeth. To learn which ones can restore your smile, we suggest requesting an appointment at Bell Dental. You can send us a message online or call:
Great service! Great work! Felt no pain
With a person with anxiety when going to the dentist, Dr. Bell was awesome. The staff was soooo friendly. I definitely would recommend
Traditional bridge placement requires altering nearby teeth. Instead, Dr. Bell might recommend capping an implant with an abutment and crown to replace a tooth.
If you are missing several teeth in a row, a dental bridge supported by dental implants at either end can fill the gap and effectively restore your bite.
Multiple implants can be used to support a full-arch denture. Unlike traditional dentures, an implant-supported one will never slip out of place when eating or speaking.
People who have been missing teeth for a while often discover that bone loss makes implant-supported dentures out of the question, but Dr. Bell at Bell Dental in Lake Jackson, TX, has a potential solution in All-on-4® dental implants. This advanced method uses strategically placed implants to make the most of the bone in your jaw.
Patients who lack bone mass are often told they will need a bone graft to qualify for dental implants, a procedure that adds time and money to their goal. With All-on-4 implants, our dentist can often eliminate this extra step entirely.
A typical fixed denture requires six to eight dental implants and abutments. The All-on-4 method uses just four implants, which are placed at strategic angles that maximize support for the attached denture.
Because just four implants are needed with the All-on-4 method, the procedure is less invasive than traditional dentures, which require six or more implants to be inserted into the jawbone.
While dental implants themselves are not covered by insurance, implant-supported restorations are eligible for coverage. We accept most forms of dental insurance and also accept financing through CareCredit®, which can help you comfortably afford treatment with a low- or no-interest loan.
Want to know if you are a candidate for dental implants? Here are a few factors our Lake Jackson dentists consider when determining if dental implants are right for you:
You must be free of oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. This ensures a healthy foundation for your implants and reduces your risk of complications such as infection and implant failure.
We'll always try to preserve damaged, unhealthy teeth. But if you are missing one tooth, multiple teeth, or all of your teeth, an implant-supported restoration is considered the gold standard for replacement. There are multiple options to fit your needs, fill the gap, and restore your oral function and appearance.
Dental implants require sufficient bone material. Your dentist will examine your jaw and determine if you have sufficient bone density to proceed with implant placement. If not, they will explore other options such as bone grafting or All-on-4 treatment.
Tobacco use is linked to a number of health concerns, including oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Tobacco is also linked to an increased risk of implant failure. It is best to cease all tobacco products before implant placement.
No. You will be thoroughly numbed using a local anesthetic before your treatment begins. Our Lake Jackson dentists also offer sedation for an extra level of comfort. Sedation is a great option for treatments such as dental implants and other types of oral surgery.
Because the implant and abutment are made of durable titanium, they are designed to last a lifetime. The restoration will wear over time and eventually need to be replaced. However, with proper care and maintenance, your implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture can last for up to 15 years or more.
It is impossible to give an accurate quote without an initial consultation. Dental implant treatment is fully customized to your specific needs. The cost will vary depending on factors such as if you need any preparatory treatment, the number of dental implants you need, and the type of restoration you require.
One of the many benefits of implant-supported restorations is that you treat them just as you would your natural teeth. Your restoration is secured to the implants, and it is not removable. Be sure to brush and floss at least twice a day, and visit our Lake Jackson dentists for regular exams and cleanings.
Have more questions about dental implants?
I had but been to the dentist in a very very very long time and was quite nervous. The entire staff were amazing. Kind, considerate, friendly and the office is cozy. Dr. Bell has a kind and caring personality and everything was great. I will be recommending them to everyone I know.
What a great experience! The staff are so warm and comforting. Dr. Bell has a wonderful bedside(chairside)manner, shows care beyond measure, and a painless experience.
Ready to learn more about dental implants at our Lake Jackson practice? Send us a message or call (979) 297-1201 today.
