THE STANDARD for DENTAL IMPLANTS in SAN ANTONIO

Until recently, the only solutions dentists had for a missing tooth or teeth were bridges or some form of partial or full denture. For the patient, these options were less than ideal and often created other dental issues—like hygiene concerns, denture slippage (or falling out), loss of regular chewing ability, jaw bone atrophy, etc.

Things have changed—dramatically. The advancement of dental implant technology has enabled today’s best dentists to replace a natural tooth root with an implant made of a special alloy that effectively fuses with the jawbone. A beautiful and permanent restoration (crown or denture) can then be affixed to the implant. The result? A smile just as comfortable and capable as what nature produces.

Choose M.I. Dental Designs in San Antonio to make sure your dental implant is placed the right way the first time.

THE DRAWBACKS OF YESTERYEAR’S DENTISTRY

Healthy teeth are not just for appearances. They play a crucial role in your overall well-being. This is why in almost every case, it is always better to keep natural tooth structure. Crowns, inlays, onlays, and fillings are fantastic when that natural tooth root can be preserved.

In the past, when a tooth was lost it often signaled the demise of a person’s oral health and eventually overall health. Following is a brief explanation of the major issues with bridges and traditional dentures:

HYGIENE: The spaces between the prosthetic and natural teeth are prone to ensnaring food particles, leading to plaque accumulation, and consequently elevating the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
DENTURE SLIPPAGE: Traditional dentures lack secure anchorage beyond suction or adhesives, which leads to them slipping or falling out completely.
LOSS OF CHEWING: Because of the lack of stability chewing became a difficult task and some food items were removed permanently from the menu.
JAWBONE ATROPHY: Traditional dentures fail to stimulate the jawbone adequately, leading to resorption and atrophy due to the absence of natural tooth roots. This leads to the sagging cheeks associated with dentures.

Whether replacing a single tooth or an entire arch, Dr. Imam’s expertise and advanced training from the KOIS Center ensure exceptional results. Dental implants at M.I. Dental Designs restore not just your smile, but a piece of yourself.

WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS ARE SO DESIRABLE

Top-quality dental implants, placed by an experienced implant dentist like Dr. Imam, essentially eliminate all of the dangers and inconveniences of traditional bridges and dentures. This is because dental implants are securely and permanently anchored into the jawbone, mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth.

IMPROVED HYGIENE | Dental implants do not require alteration of adjacent teeth, allowing for easier maintenance and reducing plaque accumulation.
ENHANCED STABILITY | Unlike dentures, implants are firmly anchored in the jawbone, preventing inconvenient slippage.
NATURAL CHEWING FUNCTIONALITY | Implants can withstand the tremendous forces involved in biting and chewing—enabling you to enjoy the same foods you always have.
JAWBONE PRESERVATION | By stimulating the jawbone like a natural tooth root does, implants prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure.

Dental implants represent the best comprehensive and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. Choose dental implants from M.I. Dental Designs to optimize your oral health and quality of life.

EXPERIENCE QUALITY DENTAL IMPLANT TOOTH REPLACEMENT

If you’re interested in the healthiest and longest-lasting form of tooth replacement, call us to schedule an appointment for an exam, or request an appointment online.

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EXAMPLE CASES

THE DENTAL IMPLANT PROCESS

We leverage digital smile design technology to show you what your smile will look like before we ever start treatment.

1 Comprehensive Exam and Planning

Begin with a thorough examination and discuss potential solutions to finalize a personalized treatment plan.

2 Surgical Preparation

Make a small, precise opening through your gums and bone to prepare for implant placement.

3 Implant Placement and Abutment

Gently insert the implant, place the abutment, and close the surgical site, providing a temporary crown or denture.

4 Healing Period

Allow a healing time of three to four months for the implant to integrate with the bone before the final restoration.

5 Final Restoration

Place your final crown or denture, completing the process and restoring full functionality and aesthetics to your smile.

Understanding Your Implants

Tooth Implant

Typically fashioned from titanium, this screw-shaped component is surgically placed into the jawbone. It serves as a robust foundation, mimicking the strength and stability of a natural tooth root. Over time, it integrates with the bone, a process known as osseointegration, providing unparalleled durability.

Abutment

This crucial intermediary piece connects the artificial root to the dental crown. The abutment ensures a seamless transition and secure fit between the implant and the crown and functions as a sturdy anchor.

Dental Crown

Custom-designed to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, the crown is the visible part of the implant. It’s crafted from high-grade dental materials that reflect the light and texture of natural enamel, ensuring our patients’ smiles are functionally competent and aesthetically pleasing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED COSMETIC DENTISTRY QUESTIONS

Q. Are dental implants safe?

A. Dental implants are widely recognized as a safe and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. As a practitioner dedicated to the highest standards of care, Dr. Imam ensures that every implant procedure at M.I. Dental Designs is performed with meticulous precision and attention to detail.

We use biocompatible materials, typically titanium, which are well-tolerated by the body and have a proven track record for safety and durability. Moreover, the procedure itself is conducted under strict sterilization protocols to minimize any risk of infection.

While any surgical procedure carries inherent risks, the success rate of dental implants is remarkably high, making them a reliable choice for tooth restoration.

Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

A. Good candidates for dental implants have the following characteristics:

Sufficient Bone Health: A good candidate for dental implants is typically someone with good overall health and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.
Good Oral Health: Ideal candidates should have healthy gums and be free from conditions that may impede bone healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain heart diseases.
Diligent Oral Hygiene Routine: It’s also crucial for the candidate to be committed to good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits.
Tobacco- & Nicotine-Free: Smokers or those with chronic disorders, such as diabetes or heart disease, may still be eligible for implants, but these factors may necessitate additional evaluation and consideration.

Each patient’s situation is unique, so Dr. Imam always conducts a thorough assessment to determine the most suitable treatment plan. At M.I. Dental Designs, we prioritize not only the aesthetic outcomes but also the long-term health and functionality of the implants for our patients.

Q. How long do dental implants last?

A. Dental implants, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. Their longevity is enhanced by good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts ten to fifteen years before it may need replacement due to wear and tear.

Q. Is the dental implant procedure painful?

A. Dental implant procedures with M.I. Dental Designs are painless. For the dental implant procedure, we offer three types of sedation—nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation—to ensure a pain-free and relaxed experience.

Each option caters to different levels of patient anxiety and procedural requirements, allowing us to tailor the sedation to your specific needs. This approach ensures that you remain comfortable and anxiety-free throughout the procedure.

Q. How do I care for my dental implants?

A. Caring for your dental implants involves a routine similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended to avoid scratching the surface of the implants. It’s also important to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings at M.I. Dental Designs to ensure the health of your implants and surrounding gums.

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

Our patients enjoy some of the most advanced and personalized treatments in the state. Dr. Imam’s skills leave many patients feeling satisfied and pleased with their results. See what our patients have to say about our handiwork.

“Had my first dental procedure since covid today. Dr Imam, hygienist Jen and frt ofc Marikneessa and Christina could not have been friendlier or more professional . Had a great visit. Don’t know why I waited so long!”

Ana P.

“Dr. Imam is the BEST dentist in the world. His staff is amazing, especially Leti, Jen, and Christina! You will get the best care you could possibly want from everyone there. And that’s coming from a scardy cat!”

Georgie Y.

“It’s just all perfect! From the front staff to the technicians to Dr. Imam. You will not regret choosing My Smile Artist for your family’s oral health needs!”

Mary H.

“World class experience and treatment from everyone in the office. Warm greetings and smiles, and excellent, knowledgeable team. So happy this is my new dental home! Highly recommend.”

Nanis M.

“Loved my first visit! Dr Imam is very caring, and makes you feel like family. I would definitely recommend him to my family and friends.”

Norma G.

“Very professional, Dr. Imam is so patient & understanding. A very comfortable experience. He gets the job done & cares about your well being. Go to him!”

Asia W.

“Very friendly and professional staff. Dr Imam was super helpful with his knowledge with what I want in my porcelain veneers.”

Jinger W.

Dr. Imam | San Antonio’s Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Imam practices facial-driven treatment planning to help patients achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. After earning his degrees at the top of his class, he finished a 2-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program. Dr. Imam remains current with continued education courses and prestigious dental associations such as the KOIS Center programs and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).