The most commonly used restorative dental procedures include dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple ones. The idea behind an implant is that we place a titanium screw into your jawbone, then wait for it to become stable before we apply the false tooth to the screw. Implants function like natural teeth, which are also attached to your jawbone.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, aren’t attached to your jawbone. They’re fixed in place, relying on teeth adjacent to that space. Damage to these supporting teeth can lead to deterioration and instability of the bridge.
At OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics, we can’t give you a guarantee that implants last a lifetime, but they commonly do when taken care of properly. A dental bridge usually lasts up to 15 years if well maintained before it needs replacement.
One of the greatest things about implants is that they look almost identical to natural teeth. No one should be able to tell that one of your teeth is an implant. They might be noticeable in the interval between applying the screw and applying the false teeth.
In some cases, the false teeth can be applied in the same visit where we apply the screw. Usually, however, the screw needs some time to settle in before we can add the false tooth to it.
During that interval, you might be able to use dentures to cover the appearance of the screw. Dentures are removable and should be easy to use. We’ll provide you with all the instructions you need during each visit.
Implants might take some time, and you might find them troubling at the start. Within a few days, after everything is over, you’ll forget you got them in the first place as they blend in perfectly with the rest of your teeth.
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term, often lifetime solution. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the implant itself can last 25 years or longer. The crown placed on top typically lasts 10–15 years, depending on care and wear.
You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:
A comprehensive consultation and exam will determine if implants are right for you.
Yes, dental implants are very safe and highly successful when placed by an experienced dentist or oral surgeon. They are made from biocompatible titanium that naturally integrates with the jawbone. Success rates typically range from 95–98%.
Most patients report that implant placement is easier than expected. During the procedure, the area is fully numbed, so you should feel no pain—only mild pressure. Afterward, temporary soreness or swelling is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
The implant process occurs in stages:
While the full process takes several months, most of that time is dedicated to healing rather than office visits.
In Houston, a complete dental implant typically costs $3,000–$6,000. At OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics:
Total cost: $4,000 for one complete dental implant
Final costs may vary based on bone grafting, extractions, or crown type.