Tag Archives: missing tooth replacement

Revitalize Your Smile with Dental Implants at GPS Dental

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on August 27, 2024

When it comes to restoring a beautiful, functional smile after tooth loss, dental implants have become the gold standard in modern dentistry. If you’re in the San Antonio area, and considering this life-changing procedure, you’re on the right path to achieving a healthy, confident smile. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about dental implants San Antonio from the benefits and process to finding the right dental professional for your needs.

Understanding Dental Implants: What Are They?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials like titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants serve as a sturdy foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. The result is a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. They are designed to fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, providing exceptional stability and durability.

Why Choose Dental Implants San Antonio?

San Antonio is home to Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s dental office in the thriving community of Brooks City Base with an expert team of dental professionals who specialize in implant dentistry. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider dental implants if you have a missing tooth:

Permanent and Long-Lasting Solution: Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike other tooth replacement options that may need frequent adjustments or replacements, implants are a long-term investment in your oral health.
Natural Look and Feel: Implants are crafted to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance. They also function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently without worrying about slippage or discomfort.
Improved Oral Health: Dental implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, as bridges do. This preserves the health of your surrounding teeth. Additionally, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the natural structure of your face.
Enhanced Quality of Life: With dental implants, you can enjoy your favorite foods without restriction and speak clearly without the fear of dentures slipping. This leads to an overall improvement in your quality of life.
Convenience: The office of Gary P. Skrobanek, DDS at GPS Dental offers a convenient location for residents and those in surrounding areas and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and experienced professionals.

The Dental Implant Process

Getting dental implants is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and precision. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when pursuing dental implants with Dr. Skrobanek’s team of experts:

1. Initial Consultation and Examination

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with a dental implant specialist at our office in the San Antonio TX. During this visit, your dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your medical history, and take digital X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and surrounding teeth. This information is crucial in determining whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

Once the initial assessment is complete, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will outline the steps of the implant process, the timeline, and the costs involved. If you require any preliminary treatments, such as bone grafting or tooth extractions, these will be scheduled before the implant surgery.

3. Implant Placement Surgery

The next step is the surgical placement of the dental implants. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, although sedation options are available for patients who may feel anxious. During the surgery, your dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone, where the implant will be placed. The implant is then inserted into the bone, and the gum tissue is stitched back into place.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is necessary to allow the implant to integrate with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, is critical for the long-term success of the implant. During this time, your dentist may provide you with a temporary restoration to maintain the appearance of your smile.

5. Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as the foundation for the final restoration, whether it’s a crown, bridge, or denture. This step is typically a minor procedure performed under local anesthesia.

6. Final Restoration

The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of the custom-made restoration. Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a restoration that perfectly fits your bite and matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. Once the restoration is ready, it is securely attached to the abutment, completing your new smile.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

While dental implants are an excellent solution for many people, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Certain factors, such as bone density, overall health, and oral hygiene, play a significant role in determining whether implants are right for you.

Here are some considerations:

Sufficient Jawbone Density: Implants require a strong, healthy jawbone to anchor them securely. If you have experienced significant bone loss, you may need a bone graft to build up the bone before implant placement.
Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental implants. Candidates must commit to regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to prevent complications such as infection or implant failure.
Overall Health: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can affect the healing process and the success of dental implants. Your dentist will evaluate your overall health and discuss any potential risks.
Non-Smoker: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. If you smoke, your dentist may advise quitting before undergoing the procedure.

Choosing the Right Dental Implant Specialist

Selecting a skilled and experienced dental implant specialist is crucial for achieving the best possible results. Here are some tips for finding the right dental team for you:

Check Credentials: Look for a dentist who has specialized training in implant dentistry. This may include advanced education, certifications, and memberships in professional organizations such as the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID).
Experience: Ask about the dentist’s experience with dental implants, including the number of successful cases they have performed. An experienced dentist is more likely to handle complex cases and provide optimal results.
Technology: Choose a dental practice that utilizes the latest technology, such as 3D imaging, digital impressions, and computer-guided surgery. These tools enhance precision and improve the outcome of your treatment.
Patient Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get a sense of the dentist’s reputation and the quality of care they provide. Positive feedback from satisfied patients is a good indicator of a trustworthy practitioner.
Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the dentist to discuss your options and ask any questions you may have. This meeting is an opportunity to gauge your comfort level with the dentist and their team.

Invest in Your Smile with Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX

Dental implants are a life-changing solution for those dealing with tooth loss, offering a permanent, natural-looking replacement that can enhance both your appearance and your quality of life. If you’re in the San Antonio, TX area and considering dental implants, take the time to find a qualified specialist, like the team at GPS Dental, who can guide you through the process with expertise and care.

With the right team of dental professionals, you can restore your smile’s beauty and functionality, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back—explore the benefits of dental implants and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Your Dental Implant San Antonio Experts Can Restore Your Smile

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 12, 2024

Welcome to more comprehensive information on dental implants from your Dental Implant San Antonio Experts, where we delve into the transformative world of restoring smiles and oral health. In this blog, we’ll explore things you need to know about dental implants, including the reasons people seek out tooth replacement options to understanding the main reasons people choose dental implants. Whether you’re considering implants to replace a single tooth or seeking a full-mouth restoration solution, join us on this journey to uncover the key benefits, considerations, and insights that will empower you to make informed decisions about your dental health.

Why Would You Choose to Replace a Missing Tooth?

People seek tooth replacement options for various reasons, including:

Restore Function: Missing teeth can impair chewing and speaking abilities, making it difficult to eat certain foods or communicate clearly. Tooth replacement options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures can restore proper function to the mouth, allowing individuals to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Preserve Oral Health: Missing teeth can lead to oral health issues such as shifting of adjacent teeth, bone loss in the jaw, and an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Tooth replacement helps maintain proper dental alignment, support bone structure, and prevent further oral health problems.
Prevent Jawbone Loss: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation from chewing forces. Dental implants mimic the function of natural tooth roots, helping preserve bone density and prevent jawbone loss.
Improve Quality of Life: Missing teeth can have a significant impact on overall quality of life, affecting social interactions, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Tooth replacement options offer a functional and aesthetic solution that allows individuals to enjoy a full and active lifestyle without limitations.
Maintain Facial Structure: Teeth provide support to the lips, cheeks, and facial muscles, contributing to facial symmetry and structure. Missing teeth can cause changes in facial appearance, leading to a sunken or aged appearance. Tooth replacement helps maintain facial volume and restore a youthful appearance.
Aesthetic Concerns: Gaps in the smile caused by missing teeth can detract from one’s appearance and affect self-confidence. Tooth replacement options are designed to restore a natural-looking smile, enhancing facial aesthetics and boosting self-esteem.
Enhance Oral Function: Tooth loss can affect bite alignment and jaw function, leading to problems such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Tooth replacement options aim to restore oral function and promote proper jaw alignment for improved comfort and speech.

Overall, tooth replacement options offer a range of benefits for individuals with missing teeth, helping them maintain oral health, restore function and aesthetics, and enhance their overall quality of life.

What are Your Tooth Replacement Options?

The most popular tooth replacement options include:

Dental Implants: Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement due to their durability, stability, and natural appearance. They consist of titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone, which serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants are topped with dental crowns, bridges, or dentures to replace missing teeth. Dental implants offer long-term benefits, including preservation of jawbone density and optimal oral function.
Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They typically consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges are fixed in place and provide a stable and functional solution for replacing missing teeth.
Dentures: Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace multiple missing teeth or an entire dental arch. They can be full dentures, replacing all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or partial dentures, replacing only a few missing teeth. Dentures are typically made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal and are customized to fit the patient’s mouth comfortably and securely.
Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures combine the stability and durability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. Dental implants are used to anchor and support the dentures, providing increased stability, comfort, and chewing efficiency compared to traditional removable dentures.
Removable Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures are used to replace one or more missing teeth in a dental arch. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a removable metal or acrylic framework that clasps onto adjacent natural teeth for support. Removable partial dentures are a more affordable alternative to dental implants or fixed bridges.

The preference for a specific tooth replacement option often depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, overall oral health, budget, and personal preferences. Consulting with your Dental Implant San Antonio Experts can help individuals determine the most suitable tooth replacement option based on their individual needs and circumstances.

Related Articles:

Tooth Replacement Game Changer: Dental Implants San Antonio
Implant Overview by The American Dental Association

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Tooth Replacement?

The preference for a tooth replacement option can vary depending on factors such as individual needs, preferences, budget, and oral health status. However, dental implants are widely considered one of the most preferred tooth replacement options by both patients and your Dental Implant San Antonio Experts.

Dental implants offer several advantages that make them popular among patients:

Durability: Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth replacement, offering exceptional durability and longevity when properly cared for. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Natural Appearance: Implants closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking smile. The crown attached to the implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of surrounding teeth, ensuring a harmonious and aesthetic result.
Bone Preservation: Dental implants integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which helps preserve bone density and prevent bone loss in the jaw. This feature helps maintain facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Stability and Functionality: Dental implants function like natural teeth, offering stability and strength for chewing, biting, and speaking. Unlike removable dentures, implants remain firmly anchored in the jaw, providing a more comfortable and secure fit.
Convenience: Once dental implants are placed and restored with crowns, bridges, or dentures, they require minimal special care beyond regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.

While dental implants are a popular choice for tooth replacement, other options such as bridges and dentures may be more suitable for certain individuals based on factors such as cost, oral health, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the best tooth replacement option depends on a thorough evaluation and discussion with Dr. Skrobanek and your Dental Implant San Antonio Experts at GPS Dental to determine the most suitable treatment plan for each individual.

We Want to be Your Dental Implants San Antonio Experts

As we conclude this exploration of dental implants, we hope you’ve gained valuable insights into the remarkable benefits they offer for restoring both function and aesthetics to your smile. Remember, investing in your oral health is an investment in your overall well-being. Whether you’re ready to take the next step towards a confident, fully restored smile or simply seeking further guidance, our Dental Implant San Antonio Experts are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how dental implants can positively transform your life.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Tooth Replacement Game Changer: Dental Implants San Antonio

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on November 21, 2023

Replacing a Tooth with a Dental Implants San Antonio Changes Everything

One of the most common options to replace a missing tooth is with a dental implant.

Gone are the days of looking older than necessary because of a sagging jawline due to one or more missing teeth. (And dentures are no longer the only option!) Dental implants offer a permanent replacement for missing teeth and an effective solution that will look and feel as natural as your original teeth. And an implant may cost far less than you expect.

Dental implants are the real deal! Did you know that dental implants enhance your smile by giving you teeth that look, function, and feel like your natural teeth and last for many years to come? If you’ve been dealing with missing teeth, then now is the time to finally restore your smile and boost your confidence and oral health. Whether you’ve dealt with tooth loss from decay, an accident, or wear and tear – we love helping our patients restore missing teeth with successful, long-lasting dental implants.

What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?

When you lose a tooth, several physiological and functional changes occur, affecting both the immediate area of tooth loss and potentially other aspects of your oral health. Here are some of the common consequences of losing a tooth:

Loss of Function:
- The most immediate and noticeable effect is a loss of function in the area where the tooth was. This can impact your ability to bite and chew properly, potentially leading to changes in your eating habits.
Changes in Speech:
- Missing teeth can affect your speech, causing difficulties in pronunciation or altering the way certain words sound. This is particularly true if the missing tooth is in a prominent location.
Shifting of Adjacent Teeth:
- The teeth adjacent to the space left by the missing tooth may start to shift into the gap. This movement can result in misalignment and changes to your bite, potentially leading to issues like malocclusion.
Bone Loss:
- The roots of the teeth play a crucial role in stimulating the underlying jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the lack of stimulation can lead to bone resorption (loss), affecting the density and volume of the jawbone over time.
Aesthetic Changes:
- A missing tooth can impact your smile and facial aesthetics. Gaps in the teeth may affect your self-esteem and how you perceive your appearance.
Gum Changes:
- The gum tissue around the area where the tooth is missing may undergo changes. It may recede, and the surrounding gums may become more susceptible to inflammation and infection.
Difficulty in Oral Hygiene:
- Maintaining proper oral hygiene may become more challenging when a tooth is missing. The gap can trap food particles, and the shifted adjacent teeth may create spaces that are difficult to clean.
Functional Imbalance:
- Losing a tooth can create an imbalance in the distribution of forces during biting and chewing. This can lead to increased stress on remaining teeth, potentially resulting in wear and tear.
TMJ Issues:
- Changes in the alignment of teeth and the bite can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, leading to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
Psychological Impact:
- The loss of a tooth can have psychological and social effects, affecting self-confidence and interpersonal relationships. Individuals may feel self-conscious about smiling or speaking in public.

To address the consequences of tooth loss, various dental solutions are available at dental implants San Antonio, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Seeking timely dental care and discussing replacement options with a dentist can help mitigate the long-term effects of losing a tooth.

What Are Dental Implants and Their Advantages?

Made from titanium, dental implants act like artificial roots that can be permanently placed in the patient’s jaw bone to support a replacement tooth – often included in dental treatments with dental crowns, dentures, or bridges. As the gum tissue and bone grow around the dental implant, they become a permanent anchor. A natural-looking porcelain crown will be custom made giving our patients a beautifully finished result that is attractive, yet helps improve chewing, maintain bone and prevent teeth from changing positions. Implants are also the only option that can replace a tooth and prevent bone loss because those titanium roots act like natural tooth roots and promote new bone growth; they can even prevent future problems with a patient’s bite.

If you are a dental implant candidate, they also,

Restore facial structure and youthful smile
Feel and function just like your natural teeth
Prevent teeth from shifting toward any gaps, which can alter your bite or facial structure
Provide no eating restrictions

The Dental implant procedure is one of the most predictable and safest procedures in dentistry. They’re very durable and can last a lifetime if they are taken care of.

Related Articles:

GPS Dental Can Restore Your Tooth and Your Smile
An Overview of Dental Implant Surgery from Mayo Clinic
Read this Implant Overview by The American Dental Association

Replace a Tooth: Basics of Implants

Today’s modern science has created a wonderful solution for missing teeth that has a huge success rate – dental implants. So, what are they exactly?

Dental implants are devices consisting of small posts often made of titanium used to replace a tooth. These posts are replacements for natural tooth roots and will connect to an abutment, which is built on top of the implant post. The abutment allows the artificial tooth to be connected to the implant post. Three parts come together to create one naturally-looking, strong tooth created by the dental implants San Antonio experts.

Getting a dental implant requires a surgical procedure. Dr. Skrobanek will use a local anesthetic to make sure you’re pain free, and then the titanium implant will be placed into the jaw bone. Before the surgical procedure takes place, you will meet with your dental implants San Antonio dentist to come up with a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.

Learn More: What to Know About Dental Implants

Replace a Tooth: Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have become a popular and widely preferred tooth replacement option due to several benefits and a high success rate. Here are some key reasons why dental implants are favored:

Natural Appearance:
- Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in both appearance and function. The crown, which is the visible part of the implant, is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of surrounding teeth.
Improved Functionality:
- Dental implants function like natural teeth, providing stability and strength for biting and chewing. This allows individuals to eat a wide variety of foods without the restrictions often associated with other tooth replacement options.
Durability and Longevity:
- Dental implants are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years, often a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution over the long term.
Preservation of Jawbone:
- Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, dental implants stimulate the jawbone in a manner similar to natural tooth roots. This helps prevent bone loss and maintains the integrity of the jawbone structure.
Adjacent Tooth Preservation:
- Dental implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, as is the case with dental bridges. This means that neighboring healthy teeth are not altered or compromised to accommodate the implant.
Improved Oral Health:
- Dental implants contribute to better oral health by filling the gap left by a missing tooth. They are easier to clean than some alternatives, and they don’t contribute to decay or damage of adjacent teeth.
Comfort and Convenience:
- Dental implants become a permanent part of the jawbone, providing a stable and comfortable foundation. Unlike removable dentures, there is no risk of slippage or discomfort during speaking or eating.
Enhanced Speech:
- Ill-fitting dentures or gaps from missing teeth can affect speech. Dental implants provide a stable and natural-feeling foundation, contributing to improved speech clarity.
High Success Rate:
- Dental implant surgery has a high success rate when performed by a skilled and experienced dental professional. With proper care and maintenance, the success rate of dental implants is typically over 95%.
Aesthetic Confidence:
- Dental implants can restore a person’s smile and facial aesthetics, enhancing self-confidence and overall well-being. The natural-looking results contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

While dental implants offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to note that not everyone is a suitable candidate for implant surgery. Factors such as overall health, jawbone density, and oral hygiene play a role in determining eligibility. Consulting with your dental implants San Antonio specialists is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Learn more about why this popular treatment to replace a tooth is so successful through some of our blogs:

Are You a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

If dental implants sound like a good option for you, it’s helpful to know if you may be considered a candidate for them. You and your dental implant Independence dentists will discuss this in more detail, but here are some of the basics:

Healthy enough for surgery with good oral health hygiene habits
Right amount of bone mass for the implants
Teeth and gums are in good standing health
Patience for the process, it can take some time to be fully completed and willing to invest the time for dental implants – which can take multiple appointments
A non-smoker or willing to stop smoking

These are common signs that your dental implants Independence dentists will look for when considering if you’re a good dental implant candidate.

Customized Restorative Dentistry that is Best for YOU

If you are interested in tooth replacement, it’s a good idea to discuss it carefully with Dr. Skrobanek and your dental implants San Antonio dental team first. If you are in good general health, one of these tooth replacement options, dentures, bridges, or dental implants, should be a good fit for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing and patients with these issues may not be good candidates for certain replacement options. Remember, using tobacco can also slow healing, regardless of which type of treatment you decide on.

Schedule a consultation with your dental implants San Antonio expert at GPS Dental to see if you are a dental implant candidate for our implant technology. It might be the perfect remedy to preserve a youthful appearance and restore the function of your bite.

Replace a Tooth: What You Need to Know about Dental Implants

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 16, 2023

Replacing a Tooth with a Dental Implant changes everything

One of the most common options to replace a missing tooth is with a dental implant.

What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?

When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it disappears quickly.

This leads to:

shifting teeth
tooth trauma and periodontal disease
aging of facial features and unnatural gums around a future tooth replacement
lack of bone support for future tooth replacement

Read this Implant Overview by The American Dental Association

Related Article: Restore Missing Teeth with Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants and Their Advantages?

If you are a dental implant candidate, they also,

Prevent teeth from shifting toward any gaps, which can alter your bite or facial structure
Restore facial structure and youthful smile
Feel and function just like your natural teeth
Provide no eating restrictions

The Dental implant procedure is one of the most predictable and safest procedures in dentistry. They’re very durable and can last a lifetime if they are taken care of.

An Overview of Dental Implant Surgery from Mayo Clinic

Replace a Tooth: Basics of Implants

Humans have been inventing methods for replacing teeth for hundreds of years – tracing back to ancient civilizations. Today’s modern science has created a wonderful solution for missing teeth that has a huge success rate – dental implants. So, what are they exactly?

Getting a dental implant requires a surgical procedure. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to make sure you’re pain free, and then the titanium implant will be placed into the jaw bone. Before the surgical procedure takes place, you will meet with your dentist to come up with a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.

Learn More: What to Know About Dental Implants

Replace a Tooth: Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are so popular because of their many benefits and success rate. Dental implants replace a tooth by:

Give you back your chewing ability and normal bite
Are cleaned just like your natural teeth, so they’re low maintenance
Prevents bone loss in the jaw
Are stable and permanent
Prevent your other teeth from becoming misaligned
Restores your quality of life
Look like your natural teeth
Boost confidence
Benefits your oral health and overall health

Learn more about Dental Implants HERE.

Learn more about why this popular treatment to replace a tooth is so successful through some of our blogs:

Restorative Dentistry: Dentures, Bridges, and Implants! OH MY!
Smile Spotlight: Erin | Restore Missing Tooth with Dental Implant and Crown

Are You a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

If dental implants sound like a good option for you, it’s helpful to know if you may be considered a candidate for them. You and your dentist will discuss this in more detail, but here are some of the basics:

Healthy enough for surgery
Good oral health hygiene habits
Right amount of bone mass for the implants
Teeth and gums are in good standing health
Patience for the process, it can take some time to be fully completed
Willing to invest the time for dental implants – which can take multiple appointments
A non-smoker or willing to stop smoking

These are common signs that your dentist will look for when considering if you’re a good dental implant candidate. Sometimes, your dentist may also look at why the teeth are missing.

Customized Restorative Dentistry that is Best for YOU

If you are interested in tooth replacement, it’s a good idea to discuss it carefully with Dr. Skrobanek first. If you are in good general health, one of these tooth replacement options, dentures, bridges, or dental implants, should be a good fit for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing and patients with these issues may not be good candidates for certain replacement options. Remember, using tobacco can also slow healing, regardless of which type of treatment you decide on.

Schedule a consultation with an implant expert at GPS Dental to see if you are a dental implant candidate for our implant technology. It might be the perfect remedy to preserve a youthful appearance and restore the function of your bite.

Believe it or not, your health is more of a factor than your age. Remember, using tobacco can also slow healing, regardless of which type of treatment you decide on. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing and patients with these issues may not be good candidates for this type of tooth replacement option.

By scheduling a consultation with Dr. Skrobanek you’ll learn if you’re a dental implant candidate. If not, he can help suggest a tooth replacement option that is a better fit for you; dentures bridges and implants may be a better remedy to restore the function of your bite and your smile’s appearance.

Restore Your Missing Tooth: Dental Implant Bridge or Dentures

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on November 9, 2021

When one of our patients comes in with a missing tooth, they typically have a lot of questions. So, we thought we’d try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to dental implant bridge or dentures here.

Q. Why should I replace missing teeth?

A. Our patients always realize that a missing tooth affects their appearance; however, that’s not the only reason we should discuss tooth replacement options. Here are 3 main reasons:

Your appearance.
The gap left by a missing tooth can mean more strain is put on the teeth at either side.
A gap can also mean your ‘bite’ is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and change the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Q. What happens if I don’t replace my missing tooth quickly?

A. When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it disappears quickly. This leads to shifting teeth, tooth trauma and periodontal disease, aging of facial features and unnatural gums around a future tooth replacement, lack of bone support for future tooth replacement.

Q. How are missing teeth replaced?

A. This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are located in your mouth. The condition of the remaining teeth also affects the decision.

There are three main ways to replace missing teeth: dental implant bridge or dentures:

Dental Implant: an artificial root is placed into the bone of the jaw and a crown or bridge is placed on top
Fixed Bridge: prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth that surround the missing tooth
Partial or Full Denture: removable false tooth (or teeth)

Let’s explain dental implant bridge or dentures in a little more depth …

Dental Implant

Dental implants act like artificial roots that can be permanently placed in the patient’s jaw bone. As the gum tissue and bone grow around the dental implant, they become a permanent anchor. A natural-looking porcelain crown will be made giving our patients a beautifully finished result that is attractive, yet helps to improve chewing, maintain bone and prevent teeth from changing positions. Dental implants can even prevent future problems with a patient’s bit.

Dental implants offer a permanent replacement for missing teeth and an effective solution that will look and feel as natural as your original teeth.

Fixed Bridge

What happens to a gap left behind in your mouth from a lost tooth? You can fill that gap with a fixed bridge. A fixed bridge is a prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth surrounding your missing tooth. Fixed bridges come in different styles, such as a surgically-implanted prosthetic, or a removable denture. No matter what you choose, your fixed bridge will fill the gap left behind from a missing tooth, as well as correct a misaligned bite and prevent your other teeth from changing position in your mouth.

Partial or Full Denture

We fit dentures to replace all or some of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dentures improve your confidence when you smile, as well as the clarity of your speech and your ability to chew. Modern dentures provide a firm hold and natural appearance to ensure maximum comfort and function.

Partial Denture: This is a plate with one or more false teeth on it. It may be all plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. Both types may have clips (clasps) to help keep the denture in place in your mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth.
Full Denture: Full dentures are a set of custom-made removable replacements for missing teeth. Usually, they require all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower half of the mouth to be removed; after removal, the gums must heal over before the dentures can be fitted.

Q. Why are dental implants so popular?

Aesthetically, they look just like a healthy tooth; but they also keep the jaw bone stable. If you leave a missing tooth and don’t replace it, over time the jaw bone will disappear. Of course, this can lead to functional problems. Not to mention an aesthetic problem with your face. Because the jaw bone is what supports your cheeks, so the loss of it can lead to small changes, such as deepening expression lines in the face, or ultimately having the look of a collapsed jaw, all causing you to take on a more aged appearance!

Dental implants allow you to be able to chew your food without issue, including fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts. They are easier to care for too; dental implants can be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with a toothbrush and floss.

We’ve talked about a lot, but we haven’t mentioned the greatest, most life changing reason for tooth replacement with dental implants… Implants are a permanent solution!

How wonderful is this? Ask any patient that had conventional dentures and decided to have dental implants placed for better support and they will tell you it was the best decision they’ve ever made!!

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What is the process when getting a dental implant:

First, Dr. Skrobanek surgically places the implant into the jawbone. He may recommend a diet of cold foods and warm soup and soft foods during the healing process.
Second, the bone around the implant heals. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place and can take some time. Some patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit. While other patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant.
Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth.
- For a single tooth implant, Dr. Skrobanek will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth.
- If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants.
- Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.

Q. What is a porcelain crown?

A. A dental crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. They are typically bonded to the tooth and can be made from many materials. It’s easier than you think to turn broken, cracked, or decaying teeth into healthy, clean-looking teeth. Dental crowns, also known as caps, correct your teeth and strengthen them by fitting tightly over your existing teeth. They will mask the appearance of broken or decaying teeth and protect them from becoming even more damaged. Once it’s set, it’s just like having natural teeth.

Q. Why are porcelain crowns used?

to improve the strength or appearance of teeth
for a tooth that is severely broken down, has cracks, or has had a root canal to reinforce the tooth
needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth

Dental crowns will allow your tooth to function normally again without worrying about the tooth cracking.

Q. Can I always have a bridge to replace missing teeth?

A. You can have a bridge only if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support. Your dental team will help you decide which is the best way of replacing missing teeth.

Q. Can I have a bridge fitted immediately after having a tooth removed / extracted?

A. It can take up to 6 months for your gums to heal properly after an extraction. This means that you may need to have a temporary denture before the bridge is fitted.

Q. How do I care for my bridge?

A. You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot access this area.

Q. When are dentures the best option?

A. Dentures and partial dentures are removable appliances that replace teeth when implants and bridges are not an option. They can be supported by remaining healthy teeth, implants, or they can replace all teeth. We treat all of our denture patients like Cosmetic Smile Makeover patients because we are restoring a patient’s smile.

Q. How are dentures made?

A. We start by taking a series of photographs of our patients face from many different angles. Then we take accurate impressions of the patient’s teeth and their current bite. After careful study and planning we turn our information over to our laboratory artist who will make a custom set of teeth that fit great and look real.

Q. How do I care for my denture?

Dentures may break if you drop them. Always clean your denture over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop it.
To clean your dentures, brush and soak them every day. Brush your dentures first, to help remove any bits of food. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface.
Make sure you brush all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that fits against your gums. This is especially important if you use any kind of denture fixative.
Soak your dentures every day in a denture-cleaning solution. This will help remove any plaque and stubborn stains that are left. It will also help to disinfect your dentures, leaving them feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t keep your dentures in overnight unless there are specific reasons for you to keep them in.
If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dental team.

Q. Should I take my denture out at night?

A. Your dental team may recommend taking out your dentures at night to give your mouth a chance to rest. If you do this, it is important to leave it in water to prevent any warping or cracking.

Q. What is the alternative to a partial denture?

A. The main alternatives are a fixed bridge or a dental implant. A fixed bridge is made by putting crowns on the teeth at either side of the gap, and then joining these two crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space. This is all made in the laboratory and then the pieces are cemented into place with special adhesives. The bridge can’t be removed.

Another option is an adhesive bridge. This has ‘wings’ that are bonded to the back of the supporting teeth, with very little drilling needed.

Q. How do I choose the best tooth replacement option for me?

A. Be guided by your dentist. They will know the condition of your remaining teeth. Tooth replacement options include dental implant bridge or dentures – depending on the best option for your specific situation. Gone are the days of looking older than necessary because of a sagging jawline due to one or more missing teeth.

GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence

If you’re not sure which option, dental implant bridge or dentures to restore your missing tooth or missing teeth will be, schedule your Smile Consultation appointment with Dr. Skrobanek and his expert team in San Antonio, Texas. We treat each of our patients individually. We offer options for dental implant bridge or dentures … after a thorough exam and a discussion about your smile goals, we will create a customized treatment plan for your individual needs to restore your smile and your confidence.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.