Learn about Our State-of-the-Art Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are widely considered the premier method of tooth replacement. After they are surgically embedded in the jaw, the small titanium posts provide a stable base for a range of restorations. They also stimulate the jaw to maintain a healthy jaw bone density. At Incredible Smiles of Texas, Dr. Chris Reger will provide personalized care before, during, and after your dental implant procedure. At our San Antonio practice, our advanced tools and technology will ensure stunning and long-lasting results. Dr. Reger places and restores dental implants, and he works with an oral surgeon to provide All-on-4® implants. Contact our office today to learn more about implants and whether they are right for you.

Consultation and Treatment Planning

Before beginning treatment, Dr. Reger will conduct a detailed evaluation. He will use x-rays and other imaging to examine your jawbone. To qualify for dental implants, you must have sufficient jawbone density. This initial exam will help him determine whether you can successfully support an implant. He will also be able to plan the optimal placement for your implant posts. Together, you will discuss your restorative goals, and you will choose the right type of implants for your needs. If you require additional care, such as treatment for gum disease, Dr. Reger will restore your oral health before beginning the implant procedure.

Implant Surgery

Before the procedure, Dr. Reger will administer local anesthesia. Because your gums and jawbone will be numb during the entire process, you should experience minimal discomfort, if any. Next, Dr. Reger will create one or more small incisions in your gum tissue. Through these incisions, he will place the implant posts in your jawbone. He will work carefully, following your custom-designed treatment plan to minimize the impact to your surrounding bone tissue. When the implant is properly positioned, Dr. Reger will place a healing cap over the top of the posts. Then he will close the incisions with stitches.

In most cases, Dr. Reger will can place your implants at our practice. However, if you choose to receive All-on-4® implants, he will refer you to an oral surgeon for your procedure. The surgeon will place four smaller posts at an angle. In this way, he can provide a strong base for a large restoration. At the same time, the smaller posts will result in minimal discomfort and recovery time. Once the posts are placed, Dr. Reger can restore your All-on-4® implants with fully functional dentures in just one day. 

Recovery and Results

After your implant surgery, it will take four to six months for your gums and bone to heal fully. During this time, Dr. Reger can typically provide a temporary restoration, so you can continue to eat and speak normally. As you heal, your bone will fuse with the implant posts. This process, known as osseointegration, allows the posts to mimic the function of your dental roots. When you have fully healed, Dr. Reger will remove the healing cap and attach abutment pieces to the tops of the posts. Finally, he will attach your permanent restoration. Whether you receive an implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture, you will enjoy a beautifully crafted and highly realistic restoration.

Contact Our Office

To learn more about the dental implant procedure and schedule your first consultation, contact Incredible Smiles of Texas today.