Missing teeth impact more than your appearance—they can affect how you eat, speak, and feel each day. At our Wichita Falls, TX dental practice, we provide advanced treatments that restore function, comfort, and confidence. Dental implants are one of the most dependable and natural-looking solutions available.
Our dentists combine surgical expertise with restorative and reconstructive artistry to deliver beautiful, lasting results. Here’s what to know when deciding if implants are right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made from biocompatible titanium, placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Because they mimic the structure of natural teeth, implants allow you to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Why Choose Dental Implants Over Other Options
Dental implants offer distinct advantages over traditional dentures or bridges, making them a preferred choice for many patients.
Implants:
- Preserve jawbone health by preventing bone loss after tooth loss
- Look and feel natural, blending seamlessly with your smile
- Last for many years with proper care and maintenance
- Allow normal eating habits, including harder or chewier foods
- Prevent shifting of neighboring teeth and maintain bite alignment
Implants are often the most comprehensive solution for patients seeking both restorative function and a natural appearance.
Key Factors That Determine Candidacy
While implants are an excellent choice for many people, certain factors determine whether you’re ready for surgery now or may need preparation first. We evaluate each of these areas during your consultation.
Oral Health
Healthy gums and adequate bone density are critical for supporting an implant. Our in-office iCAT 3D imaging system assesses your jawbone’s volume, density, and structure. If bone loss is present, bone grafting can rebuild a strong foundation for your implant.
We also check for signs of gum disease. Treating issues like periodontitis before surgery is essential to protecting your investment and promoting healing.
Overall Health and Lifestyle
Your general health plays a major role in implant success. Chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should be well-controlled before surgery. Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure, so we recommend quitting before treatment.
We’ll also review your medications, immune system health, and healing history to ensure a safe and predictable outcome.
Missing Tooth Pattern and Goals
The number and location of missing teeth influence your treatment plan.
- A single missing tooth may need one implant and a crown
- Several missing teeth may be replaced with multiple implants supporting a bridge
- Full-arch solutions like All-on-X or Teeth-in-a-Day can restore an entire smile in fewer appointments
Your comfort, function, and appearance goals guide our recommendations, especially in complex reconstructive cases.
When You’re Not Immediately a Candidate
Not qualifying for implants right away doesn’t mean they’re off the table. Many patients become eligible after completing certain treatments or making lifestyle changes.
Common reasons for delay include:
- Insufficient bone density (may require bone augmentation)
- Active gum disease (must be treated first)
- Uncontrolled systemic health conditions
- Ongoing smoking or tobacco use
Our team can create a phased plan to address these issues so that you can confidently move forward.
How StarImage Dentistry Prepares You for Implant Treatment
We take a comprehensive approach to ensure your implant treatment is safe, comfortable, and successful.
Your journey begins with a full consultation, including:
- Clinical examination and detailed medical history review
- Digital X-rays and a 3D CT scan for precise planning
- Discussion of your desired results and restorative options
From there, we:
- Develop a customized surgical plan using computer-guided technology
- Explain sedation options for a comfortable, stress-free procedure
- Coordinate any needed pre-treatments such as bone grafting or extractions
- Handle surgical placement and final restorations in one convenient location
This streamlined process means you work with the same team throughout—from your first exam to your completed smile.
Why StarImage Dentistry Is a Leading Choice for Restorative and Reconstructive Implant Dentistry
Choosing the right provider can make all the difference in your experience and results. Patients choose us because:
- Dr. Dustin Van Tassell and Dr. Green have advanced training in implant placement and restorative design
- Our combination of surgical skill and artistic restorative work ensures both strength and beauty
- We use iCAT 3D imaging and guided surgery for accuracy and safety
- Sedation dentistry options make procedures more comfortable
- All surgical and restorative services are provided under one roof in Wichita Falls
This integrated approach allows us to handle complex restorative and reconstructive cases precisely and consistently.
FAQ: Dental Implant Basics
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Wichita Falls
Dental implants could be your answer if you’re missing teeth and want a solution that looks, feels, and functions like the real thing. As your experienced implant dentist in Wichita Falls, we combine advanced technology, surgical expertise, and restorative artistry to create lasting smiles.
Call us today at 940-322-2252 to take the first step toward restoring your smile with confidence.
