Missing teeth can affect how you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. If you’re searching for a permanent tooth replacement solution, dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking option that can restore both function and aesthetics to your smile.
At Olympia Hills Family Dental, Dr. Hafen and his experienced team provide advanced dental implant placement for patients throughout the northeast San Antonio area, including Live Oak, Universal City, Schertz, Cibolo, Selma, and Randolph Air Force Base. Our practice combines modern technology with personalized care to help you regain the smile you deserve.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant integrates with your bone through a process called osseointegration, a custom crown is attached to complete your restoration. This creates a stable, long-lasting replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
The implant procedure typically involves several phases. First, we evaluate your oral health and bone density to determine if you’re a good candidate. After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months allows the bone to fuse with the implant. Finally, we attach your permanent restoration, giving you a fully functional tooth.
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even support full dentures. The versatility of this treatment makes it an excellent option for patients with varying degrees of tooth loss.
Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants
Dental implants provide numerous advantages over traditional tooth replacement methods. They preserve your jawbone by stimulating it just like natural tooth roots, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs after tooth extraction. This helps maintain your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance associated with missing teeth.
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades. Research shows implants have success rates ranging from 95% to 98%, making them one of the most reliable options in restorative dentistry. Unlike dentures, which can slip or require adhesives, implants remain securely anchored in your jaw.
Implants also protect your remaining natural teeth. Traditional bridges require grinding down adjacent teeth for support, but implants stand independently without compromising healthy tooth structure. You can brush and floss around your implant just like you would a natural tooth, making maintenance straightforward.
The Implant Process at Olympia Hills Family Dental
Your journey begins with a comprehensive examination. We use advanced dental technology to assess your bone quality and plan precise implant placement. Our team takes time to explain each step of the process and answer all your questions.
During the surgical phase, Dr. Hafen places the titanium implant into your jawbone with precision and care. We offer sedation dentistry options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within a few days.
After your implant heals and integrates with the bone, we fabricate a custom crown that matches your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. The final result is a seamless restoration that blends perfectly with your smile. Our cosmetic dentistry expertise ensures your implant looks as good as it functions.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Maintaining your dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria that can cause complications. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the restoration.
Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your implant and the surrounding tissues. During these visits, we examine the implant for any signs of issues and perform professional cleanings to keep your gums healthy. Studies show that at the implant level, the cumulative survival rate at 10 years is 96.8% when patients maintain proper oral hygiene and attend routine appointments.
Avoiding habits like smoking and teeth grinding helps protect your investment. If you clench or grind your teeth, we can provide a custom nightguard to prevent excessive force on your implant. These simple precautions help ensure your implant remains functional for many years.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
At Olympia Hills Family Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care that improves your quality of life. Our team takes pride in creating a welcoming environment where patients feel like family. We serve individuals and families throughout the northeast San Antonio area with comprehensive dental services designed to meet your unique needs.
Dr. Hafen brings extensive experience in implant dentistry, combining skill with the latest techniques to deliver outstanding results. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we can develop a customized treatment plan that fits your goals and budget. We work with various insurance providers and offer flexible payment options to make dental implants accessible.
Ready to restore your smile with dental implants? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We’ll evaluate your oral health, discuss your options, and create a personalized treatment plan. Join the many patients who have trusted us with their dental care and discovered the confidence that comes with a complete, healthy smile.