Missing one or more teeth affects both function and appearance. When you can’t chew properly, speak clearly, or smile confidently, everyday activities become uncomfortable. Dental implants provide a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
At Olympia Hills Family Dental, Dr. Hafen and our team serve patients from Schertz and surrounding communities with advanced implant dentistry. We understand the impact tooth loss has on your quality of life. Our practice combines state-of-the-art technology with personalized care to restore your smile and confidence.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts that replace missing tooth roots. During a surgical procedure, we place the implant into your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant integrates fully, we attach a custom crown that matches your natural teeth in color and shape. This creates a complete tooth replacement that preserves bone structure and restores full chewing power.
Unlike dentures or bridges, implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Each implant stands independently, protecting the health of your remaining teeth. The titanium material integrates permanently with your jawbone, providing stability that traditional tooth replacement options cannot match. Research indicates that dental implant treatment achieves a 97% success rate at 10 years, making it one of the most reliable restorative procedures in dentistry.
Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants
Dental implants offer multiple advantages over traditional tooth replacement methods. The implant post stimulates your jawbone just like a natural tooth root, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs after tooth loss. This preservation of bone tissue maintains your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance often associated with missing teeth. Implants do not stain and can dramatically reduce bone loss over time.
Patients appreciate the natural feel and function of implant-supported teeth. You can eat your favorite foods without restriction, speak without slipping or clicking, and smile with complete confidence. We use high-quality zirconia crowns that match the appearance of your natural teeth, creating seamless results. Cosmetic dentistry techniques ensure your restored smile looks beautiful and natural.
The permanent nature of dental implants eliminates the ongoing maintenance required by dentures. You care for implants exactly as you care for natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. This simplicity makes implants the preferred choice for patients seeking a long-term solution.
The Dental Implant Process
Your implant journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. We assess your oral health, review your medical history, and take detailed imaging to plan your treatment precisely. Our practice uses advanced diagnostic technology to ensure optimal implant placement and long-term success.
The implant placement procedure takes place in our office under local anesthesia or sedation dentistry options if you prefer. Dr. Hafen has placed over 1,000 implants and brings extensive experience to every procedure. We place the titanium implant into your jawbone, then allow several months for complete osseointegration before attaching the permanent crown.
Throughout the healing period, we provide detailed post-operative instructions and monitor your progress closely. Once your implant has fully integrated, we create and attach your custom crown, completing your tooth replacement. The entire process ensures the strongest possible foundation for your new tooth.
Candidacy and Considerations
Most patients with good general health make excellent candidates for dental implants. Adequate jawbone density is necessary to support the implant post. For patients who have experienced bone loss, we offer bone grafting procedures to rebuild the necessary bone structure before implant placement.
Certain factors influence implant success. Patients who maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups experience better long-term outcomes. Smoking can interfere with healing and osseointegration, so we encourage patients to quit before undergoing implant surgery. Managing conditions like diabetes also supports successful treatment results.
We evaluate each patient individually to determine the best treatment approach. Some patients benefit from single tooth implants, while others require multiple implants or implant-supported dentures through our Secure Smile All-on-4 program. Dr. Hafen discusses all available options during your consultation and helps you choose the solution that fits your needs and goals.
Comprehensive Dental Care in Schertz
Olympia Hills Family Dental provides a complete range of dental services for patients throughout the Schertz area. Our practice culture focuses on creating enjoyable dental experiences in a friendly, professional environment. We take the time to understand your individual needs and explain every aspect of your treatment clearly.
Dr. Hafen and our dental professionals stay current with the latest techniques and technologies in implant dentistry. We invest in advanced equipment and continuing education to deliver the highest standard of care. Our patients appreciate the personal attention they receive and the excellent results we achieve together.
Experience the difference that quality implant dentistry makes in your life. Contact our office to schedule your consultation and learn more about dental implant solutions. We welcome patients from Live Oak, Universal City, Randolph Air Force Base, and surrounding communities to our practice, where we treat every patient like family.