Dental Implants

If you’re missing one or more teeth, Dental Implants offer a durable and highly functional replacement option. Whether you’ve lost teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, Dental Implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth—helping you regain your smile and confidence.

Overview

What are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing or severely damaged teeth that can’t be restored with a filling or crown. They are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, implants are topped with crowns, bridges, or dentures to restore both function and appearance. Unlike dentures, implants are permanent, stable, and offer a natural feel, making them a top choice for those looking to improve their smile and dental health.

When to get a Dental Implant

Implants are ideal for those looking for a long-term solution to improve both the appearance and function of their smile. It’s also recommended if you’re experiencing issues with chewing or speaking due to a missing tooth. The best time to get an implant is when your jawbone is healthy and can support the implant, typically after the area has healed from tooth loss or extraction.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Long-lasting results: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime
Improved function: Enjoy speaking and chewing with confidence
Bone preservation: Prevent bone loss that occurs with missing teeth
Natural look and feel: Custom restorations blend seamlessly with your smile
No impact on surrounding teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support

From prep to recovery, you’re in good hands.

Before surgery

Your consultation

Your first visit will include a thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. We’ll take any necessary 3D imaging to plan your procedure and determine if you need a Bone Graft or any preparatory treatments.

Medical & dental history review

We’ll review your health background and medications to ensure Dental Implants are a safe option. Patients with certain conditions (such as diabetes or heart issues) may need medical clearance before proceeding.

Pre-surgical instructions

You’ll receive detailed guidelines tailored to your case, which may include:

Avoiding food or drink before surgery (especially if undergoing IV Sedation)
Stopping certain medications (if instructed by your doctor)
Arranging transportation to and from your appointment
Setting up time to rest at home following the procedure

During surgery

Sedation and comfort

Your safety and comfort are our top priority. Depending on your treatment plan, you may receive Local Anesthesia, IV Sedation, or both. We’ll make sure you’re fully relaxed before beginning.

Implant placement

A small incision is made in the gum to access the jawbone
A precision-guided hole is drilled to receive the implant post
The titanium implant is placed and either left to heal under the gum or fitted with a healing abutment (depending on the case)

Procedure timeline

Single implant procedures typically take 30–60 minutes. Full-arch or multi-implant surgeries may take longer. Afterward, you’ll be monitored until it’s safe for you to go home.

After surgery

Initial recovery (First 24–72 hours)

Some swelling, soreness, and minor bruising are common
Ice packs can reduce inflammation during the first 24 hours
Stick to soft, cool foods and avoid hot or spicy items
Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient, but prescriptions may be provided if needed

Ongoing healing & osseointegration (weeks to months)

The implant will slowly integrate with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, which typically takes 3–6 months
You’ll return for follow-up appointments so we can monitor healing progress
If needed, we may place a temporary tooth during this phase to maintain appearance and function

Final steps: abutment & crown placement

Once healing is complete, we’ll:

Uncover the implant (if it was buried beneath the gum)
Attach a small connector piece called an abutment
Secure your custom-made crown to restore full function and aesthetics

Post-op care

We’ll send you home with detailed instructions on how to clean around the implant site, what to eat, and how to support proper healing.

Ready to restore your smile? If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for Dental Implants—or you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth—San Antonio OMS is here to help.

Your questions, answered.

San Antonio OMS is here to address all your questions and concerns regarding Dental Implants.

Am I a good candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people who are missing a tooth (or multiple teeth) can get Dental Implants! A good candidate should have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. If you have certain health conditions or have been missing a tooth for a long time, your surgeon may recommend additional treatments to help ensure success. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation.

What is the success rate of Dental Implants?

Dental Implants have a very high success rate—typically around 95-98% when placed by an experienced oral surgeon. They are designed to be a long-term solution, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime.

How long does the Dental Implant process take?

The full process can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on your specific case. The implant needs time to heal and fuse with your jawbone before the final tooth (crown) is placed. If you need a Bone Graft or additional procedures, that may add time to your treatment. Your surgeon will give you a personalized timeline during your consultation.

Is the Dental Implant procedure painful?

Most patients are surprised at how little discomfort they feel! The procedure is done under Anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Afterward, you may have some swelling or soreness for a few days, but most people manage it easily with over-the-counter pain medication. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to keep you comfortable.

How much do Dental Implants cost, and does
insurance cover them?

The cost of Dental Implants varies based on how many teeth you’re replacing and any additional treatments needed. While implants are an investment, they offer a permanent solution that can improve your oral health and quality of life. Some dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, and many oral surgery offices offer financing options to help make treatment affordable.

How do I care for my Dental Implants after surgery?

Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth—brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups. In the first few weeks after surgery, you’ll need to stick to soft foods and follow your surgeon’s care instructions to ensure proper healing. With good oral hygiene, your implants can last a lifetime!

Tooth Extraction

Up next

Full Mouth Reconstruction