Dental Implants
If you are missing some or all your teeth, TORC Dental can help. Using dental implants, Dr. Hijazi can replace your tooth or teeth in a way that restores your ability to chew and smile naturally, without fear of loose dentures or partials.
Dental implants resemble an artificial tooth root. The implant is placed in the gap where your natural tooth was removed. Over a few weeks, the bone grows in and around the implant, bonding it to your bone. Dr. Hijazi then places a false tooth on top of the implant, restoring your ability to chew and smile, just as though you never lost a tooth.
There are two main types of implants.
- Endosteal – in the bone
- Subperiosteal – under the gum but on top of the bone
You also have options as to the application of your implants. For example, if you are missing all your teeth, you can have a complete arch replaced with only four implants with the All-on-4 approach. You can even have replacement teeth added on the same day your implants are placed with our Teeth in a Day service.
Each patient’s need is unique, and Dr. Hijazi will help you choose the implant that is right for your needs.
Call TORC Dental today at 512-607-6500 to discuss your options for stable, secure dental implants.
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Bone Grafting
Losing one or more teeth creates challenges that extend far beyond appearance. You might find yourself avoiding certain foods, struggling with speech clarity, or feeling uncomfortable in conversations because you’re constantly aware of the gaps in your smile. At TORC Dental in Dripping Springs, TX, Dr. Subea Hijazi, DDS provides dental implant solutions designed to restore full function and give you back the freedom to eat, speak, and smile without hesitation or compromise.
A patient occasionally presents with thin or compromised bone tissue. To ensure success with dental implants, weakened bone must be strengthened and built up prior to implant placement. Dr. Hijazi at TORC Dental provides bone grafting services using transplanted bone to provide a solid base for implants.
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One method of improving the bone structure prior to placement of implants is to graft bone from another part of the patient’s body. It takes several months for the grafted bone to become strong enough to hold an implant. Eventually, your own bone will regrow in the area, making the implant even stronger.
Dr. Hijazi and his team are experts in this innovative treatment. During your consultation, they will discuss all your options and help you decide which will be most successful for your unique case. Call our office today at 512-607-6500 for an appointment to see if bone grafting might help restore your beautiful smile.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots, surgically placed into your jawbone where teeth are missing. Once positioned, these implants integrate with your bone tissue through a natural process called osseointegration. This typically takes several weeks as your bone grows around the implant, creating a stable foundation. After this healing period, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, completing your restoration.
There are two primary types of implants available. Endosteal implants are placed directly into the jawbone and are the most common type used today. Subperiosteal implants sit under the gum tissue but rest on top of the jawbone, making them suitable for patients who may not have sufficient bone height for traditional implants.
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Benefits of Dental Implants
Protects Adjacent Teeth from Damage
Traditional dental bridges require grinding down healthy neighboring teeth to serve as anchors, permanently altering their structure. Dental implants stand independently without relying on surrounding teeth for support. This preservation approach keeps your natural teeth intact and reduces the risk of future dental problems in those areas.
Eliminates Speech Difficulties
Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can cause slurring, whistling sounds, or mumbling that affects how others understand you. Dental implants remain fixed in place and fill gaps completely, allowing your tongue to move naturally against stable surfaces. You’ll speak clearly and confidently without worrying about dentures shifting or gaps altering your pronunciation.
Provides Superior Comfort
Unlike removable dentures that can create sore spots, rub against your gums, or require messy adhesives, dental implants become part of your mouth. You won’t experience the irritation that comes from taking dentures in and out multiple times daily. The permanent nature of implants means no awkward adjustments during meals or conversations.
Maintains Proper Tooth Alignment
When a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth gradually drift into the empty space, creating bite problems and increasing your risk of decay and gum disease. Dental implants fill these gaps immediately, acting as placeholders that keep your remaining teeth in their correct positions. This stability protects your overall dental health and prevents costly orthodontic issues down the road.
Supports Overall Health and Nutrition
The ability to chew thoroughly affects how well your body digests food and absorbs essential nutrients. Dental implants restore full chewing power, enabling you to eat fibrous vegetables, lean proteins, and other nutritious foods that benefit your overall health. You won’t need to limit yourself to soft, processed options that may lack the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Our Dental Implant Treatment Process
Comprehensive Evaluation and Digital Imaging
During your first visit to TORC Dental, Dr. Subea Hijazi, DDS performs a thorough examination of your oral health, including advanced digital imaging to assess your bone density and jaw structure. She discusses your specific needs, reviews your medical history, and determines the best implant approach for your situation. This consultation also covers whether you’re a candidate for same-day teeth or the All-on-4 method, along with a complete timeline for your treatment.
Personalized Implant Strategy
Based on your examination results, Dr. Hijazi creates a detailed treatment plan that addresses your unique dental needs and goals. This plan specifies whether endosteal implants placed in the bone or subperiosteal implants positioned under the gum are most appropriate for you. For patients missing multiple teeth or a full arch, she’ll explain how the All-on-4 technique can replace all your teeth using just four strategically positioned implants.
Precise Implant Placement
The surgical procedure is performed using local anesthesia to keep you comfortable while Dr. Hijazi positions each titanium post into your jawbone with exact precision. These implants serve as artificial tooth roots that will bond with your bone tissue over the following weeks. If you qualify for our Teeth in a Day service, you’ll receive temporary replacement teeth during this same appointment, eliminating any period without teeth.
Healing Period and Bone Integration
Following your implant placement, your body begins the natural process of osseointegration where bone grows around the titanium posts. This typically takes several weeks to a few months, during which you’ll follow specific care instructions including eating soft foods and avoiding dairy products initially. Dr. Hijazi monitors your progress to ensure the implants are bonding properly with your jawbone before moving to the next phase.
Final Restoration and Ongoing Care
Once osseointegration is complete, Dr. Hijazi attaches your permanent crowns, bridges, or dentures to the fully integrated implants. These custom-made restorations are designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and function. Regular check-ups every six months help maintain your implants and ensure they continue performing optimally for years to come.
Why Choose Us for Dental Implants
TORC Dental combines modern technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional dental implant results. Dr. Subea Hijazi, DDS brings extensive training and experience in implant dentistry, using the latest techniques to ensure precision and comfort throughout your treatment. Our practice prioritizes your individual needs, taking time to understand your goals and concerns before recommending solutions.
We offer flexible implant options designed to accommodate different situations and budgets. Whether you need a single tooth replacement or a full-arch restoration, our team works with you to find the approach that best fits your lifestyle. The welcoming environment at our Dripping Springs office helps patients feel at ease, and our commitment to clear communication means you’ll always know what to expect at each stage of your treatment.
Find Out If You’re a Candidate for Dental Implants Today!
You could be closer to a complete smile than you think, especially with options like Teeth in a Day that let you leave our office with functional replacement teeth. Dr. Subea Hijazi, DDS at TORC Dental takes time to understand your specific situation and recommend the implant solution that fits your lifestyle and budget. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages where we share before-and-after results, patient stories, and helpful tips for dental implant care. Reach out to our Dripping Springs team at 512-607-6500 to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and discover which implant approach works best for you.
FAQs
How much are dental implants?
The cost of dental implants depends on how many you need, the complexity of your case, and the type of restoration used. A single implant typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, while full-arch solutions cost more. Many dental practices offer financing options to make treatment more accessible. Schedule a consultation to receive an accurate estimate based on your specific situation and learn about payment plans that fit your budget.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. These posts bond with your bone through a natural healing process, creating a permanent foundation for artificial teeth. Once healed, crowns, bridges, or dentures attach to the implants, restoring your ability to chew and smile naturally. They’re the closest replacement option to natural teeth in both function and appearance.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. The titanium post rarely needs replacement once it integrates with your jawbone. The crown or prosthetic attached to the implant may require replacement after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear. This longevity makes implants more cost-effective long-term compared to bridges or dentures that need frequent adjustments or replacements.
Do dental implants hurt?
You won’t feel pain during implant placement because the procedure uses local anesthesia. Most patients describe post-surgery discomfort as similar to or less than a tooth extraction. Any soreness typically fades within a few days and responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions helps minimize discomfort and promotes faster healing, making the recovery process manageable for most people.
Why no dairy after dental implant?
Dairy products can promote bacterial growth in your mouth immediately after implant surgery, increasing infection risk at the surgical site. Avoiding dairy for the first few days helps protect the area while it begins healing. Your dentist will let you know when it’s safe to resume eating dairy based on how well you’re recovering. This temporary restriction is a simple precaution that supports successful implant integration.
