The Dental Implant Process

If you’re missing a tooth (or several), dental implants can do more than restore your smile—they can restore your confidence. At Balcones Family Dental in Austin, TX, Dr. Ross Maddox, Dr. Ahmed Sharaf, and Dr. Christopher Glecos help patients rebuild healthy, functional smiles every day using modern implant dentistry. But what exactly does the process involve? Here’s what to expect, step by step.

Step 1: The Consultation

It all starts with a conversation. During your consultation, your dentist will take detailed 3D scans and X-rays to evaluate your bone health and overall oral condition. This visit is also about your goals—how you want your smile to look and feel. Together, you’ll discuss your treatment options and determine if implants are the right fit.

If you’ve been missing a tooth for a while, you may need a bone graft before the implant is placed. This helps strengthen the jawbone so it can securely hold the implant for years to come.

Step 2: The Implant Placement

A dental implant is essentially a small titanium post that replaces a natural tooth root. Once the area is numbed and you’re comfortable, the post is carefully positioned in the jawbone. Titanium is biocompatible, which means your body accepts it naturally. Over the next several months, your bone will bond to the implant in a process called osseointegration—creating a strong, lasting foundation.

During this healing period, you may wear a temporary crown or bridge so you can eat and smile normally while the implant stabilizes.

Step 3: The Abutment and Crown

After the implant has fully integrated, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached. This serves as the link between your implant and your new custom crown. Using precise imaging and color matching, your dentist will design a crown that blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth—right down to the shape and shade.

The final result looks and functions just like a natural tooth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Healing and Aftercare

Mild tenderness after each stage is normal, but most patients are surprised by how smooth the recovery process is. Your dentist will give you easy-to-follow care instructions, including how to keep the area clean and what foods to avoid during healing. Once your implant is complete, you can treat it just like any other tooth—brushing, flossing, and coming in for regular cleanings.

With proper maintenance, dental implants can last decades, and many last a lifetime.

Dental Implants in Austin, TX

At Balcones Family Dental, our experienced team combines skill, precision, and compassionate care to help you feel comfortable through every step of the implant process. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or restoring your full smile, we’ll create a treatment plan designed around your needs and goals.

If you’ve been considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with our Austin team today. We’ll help you take the first step toward a smile that feels like your own again.

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Categorized in: Dental Implants