Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement and are now recognized as the standard of care in dentistry today. Unlike conventional dentures and bridges, implants permanently replace the missing tooth or teeth, allowing you to eat anything while enjoying a natural-looking smile. Get these at The Center for Oral and Facial Surgery in Katy.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are tiny titanium posts, surgically inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes and are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums, and these posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
The implant consists of three parts: the titanium post in your jaw, an abutment that connects to the post, and the crown that looks like your natural tooth.
Implant options we offer
We provide several implant solutions based on your needs:
- Single-tooth implants replace a single missing tooth without affecting adjacent teeth. Each implant supports its own crown.
- Implant bridges replace multiple missing teeth using two or more implants. This option works well when several consecutive teeth are missing.
- Full-arch implants replace all upper or lower teeth. The All-on-4 and All-on-X techniques utilize four to six implants to support a complete set of teeth. This approach often eliminates the need for extensive bone grafting to support implants.
Bone grafting & sinus lift
Some patients need additional procedures before implant placement. If your jawbone lacks sufficient density, bone grafting adds volume and strength. For upper back teeth, a sinus lift for upper molar implants creates space between your jaw and sinus cavity.
These procedures help guarantee your implants have proper support. They’re performed before or during implant surgery.
For denture wearers
If you currently wear dentures, implants can dramatically improve your experience. Implant-supported dentures snap onto posts in your jaw, preventing them from slipping while you eat or speak. You can choose between removable and fixed options, depending on your preference and budget.
Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Good candidates for dental implants typically have:
- One or more missing teeth
- Adequate bone density or willingness to undergo bone grafting
- Healthy gums free from periodontal disease
- Good overall health and no conditions that slow healing
- Commitment to excellent oral hygiene
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery
Age isn’t usually a barrier. Adults of all ages can successfully receive implants. If you are considering implants, Dr. Justin Brock or Dr. Christopher Morris will evaluate your jaw structure, bone quality, and medical history. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving the outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.
What to Expect Before and During the Procedure
Your evaluation & 3D planning
Your first visit includes a comprehensive exam and 3D imaging. This technology shows your bone structure, nerve locations, and sinus positions. Dr. Brock and Dr. Morris use these images to plan your implant placement.
You’ll discuss your goals, review options, and create a personalized treatment plan. If you need gentle extractions before implant planning, we’ll schedule those first.
Sedation and comfort
Most implant procedures use local anesthesia. Many patients also choose IV sedation for complete relaxation. Our surgeons perform implant surgery in a certified surgical suite designed for your safety and comfort.
You’ll feel no pain during the procedure. If you select sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
How dental implant surgery works
For most patients, dental implant placement involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the gum surface, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Our surgeons will uncover the implants and attach small posts that will serve as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily lives.
Recovery Timeline & Aftercare
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Expect mild swelling and discomfort for the first 48-72 hours. Over-the-counter pain medication usually manages any discomfort.
Stick to soft foods for the first week. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could disturb the surgical site. Follow our dental implant aftercare guide carefully.
During the months while your implant integrates, avoid chewing directly on the implant site. Attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing.
Results and benefits you’ll notice
Once your implant fully heals, you’ll enjoy teeth that feel entirely natural. You can eat whatever you want without worry. Your speech improves if missing teeth previously affected pronunciation.
Implants also preserve your facial structure. When teeth are missing, your jawbone gradually shrinks. Implants stimulate the bone in a manner similar to natural tooth roots, thereby maintaining bone volume and preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies tooth loss.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer advantages that other tooth replacement options can’t match:
- Natural appearance and function – Implants look, feel, and work like your own teeth
- Permanent solution – With proper care, implants can last a lifetime
- Bone preservation – Implants prevent jawbone loss that occurs with missing teeth
- Protect adjacent teeth – No need to grind down healthy teeth for a bridge
- Improved eating ability – Chew any food comfortably without slipping or discomfort
- Better speech – Speak clearly without the slurring that can occur with dentures
- Easy maintenance – Brush and floss normally, no special cleaning required
- No dietary restrictions – Enjoy all your favorite foods without worry
- Stability – Implants don’t slip, click, or move when you talk or eat
Costs, Insurance & Financing
Implant costs vary based on how many teeth you’re replacing and whether you need additional procedures, such as bone grafting. During your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed cost estimate based on your treatment plan.
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the implant process. We’ll review your benefits and maximize your coverage. We also offer financing options for implants to make treatment affordable with manageable monthly payments.
Investing in implants often costs less in the long term than other options. Bridges and dentures require replacement every 5-15 years, while implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
Why Choose The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery
Dr. Justin Brock and Dr. Christopher Morris are board-eligible oral and maxillofacial surgeons with advanced training beyond dental school. Their specialized expertise covers all aspects of implant dentistry, from simple single-tooth replacements to complex full-arch reconstructions.
Both surgeons use advanced 3D imaging and precise surgical techniques to achieve predictable results. They’ve placed thousands of implants throughout their careers, handling even the most challenging cases that require bone grafting or sinus lifts.
Our practice serves patients in Katy, Fulshear, and Richmond, focusing on personalized care. We take the time to explain your options and create treatment plans that align with your goals and budget. Read what others say in our patient testimonials.
Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions
Who actually performs the implant placement?
Implants are a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. While our surgeons perform the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary, the restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
What types of prostheses are available?
A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth; each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw.
The number of implants varies depending on which type of complete prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball in socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.
Our surgeons perform in-office implant surgery in a certified surgical suite, thus optimizing the level of sterility. Inpatient hospital implant surgery is for patients who have special medical or anesthetic needs or for those who need extensive bone grafting from the jaw, hip or tibia.
Why dental implants?
Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize there is a way to improve your life. When you lose several teeth, whether it’s a new situation or something you have lived with for years, chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself.
Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind. A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than thirty-five years ago. With his pioneering research, Dr. Branemark opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.
Why would you select dental implants over more traditional types of restorations?
There are several reasons, starting with why sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge a space? In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, and dentures that slip can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The majority of dental implants and bone grafts can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia.
Do implants need special care?
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. It means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and regular checkups. Your crown or bridge may need to be replaced after 10-15 years, but the implant itself remains functional.
Can I get implants if I have gum disease?
Active gum disease must be treated before implant surgery to prevent failure. Once controlled, you can move forward with implant placement.
Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking significantly increases implant failure rates because it impairs healing. Quitting several weeks before and after surgery greatly improves success rates.
How soon can I eat normally after implant surgery?
Most patients return to their regular diet within two weeks, starting with soft foods for the first week. You can eat anything without restrictions once your final restoration is placed and fully healed.
For more information on dental implants please visit: MyOMS.org.
Ready to Replace Missing Teeth?
Stop letting missing teeth limit your life. Dental implants restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with complete freedom. Dr. Brock and Dr. Morris provide expert implant care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment. Schedule your dental implant consultation in Katy at The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery today, with easy access from Fulshear and Richmond. Contact us to begin your path to a complete, healthy smile.
Meet Our Surgeons
Dr. Justin R. Brock
Dr. Brock performs all aspects of oral, maxillofacial and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Brock’s interests...
Dr. Christopher D. Morris
Christopher D. Morris DDS, MD, FACS is a board certified oral maxillofacial surgeon whose surgical...
Related Services
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the specialty of dentistry that includes the diagnosis, surgical, and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and esthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.
This comprehensive field of care also includes common procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions and dental implant placement, which help restore function, health, and aesthetics to the smile.
