Dental Implants
Dr. James Peterson is proud to offer dental implants using CEREC technology for his patients in Coppell, TX. Dental implants are metal posts surgically placed in your gums and jawbone to act as the root of the tooth. One or more posts can be attached to a bridge, denture, or crown for a beautiful, strong restoration. Dental implants are a great choice if you don’t want to deal with loose crowns or removable dentures. Talk to Dr. Peterson about what you would like, and he will help you decide if implant dentistry is a good choice for you.
Best Candidates for
Dental Implants
Implants replace one or several lost teeth by connecting the implant to a crown, denture, or bridge. You may prefer implant dentistry if you have a removable or cemented dental restoration but do not like the look or fit, or if there is extra care needed. You can treat your dental implants just like your normal teeth, with regular brushing and flossing.
At your dental implant consultation, Dr. Peterson will assess the health of your gums and jawbone to determine if you are a good candidate. If needed, he may complete a gum or bone graft before the implant is placed to strengthen the area where the implant will be placed. Dental implants may not be appropriate if you are pregnant, use tobacco products, or are being treated for another issue, such as periodontal disease.
What To Expect
You may need to have damaged teeth extracted or gum and bone grafts before Dr. Peterson can place your implant. Once it is placed, it will begin to fuse with the jawbone. While the area is healing, you may receive a temporary crown or cover over the implant. Once Dr. Peterson decides the dental implant is properly healed and stable, the permanent restoration (bridge, denture, or crown) will be attached to the post and adjusted for a comfortable fit and perfectly natural appearance.
Recovery & After Care
Dr. Peterson will talk to you about what to expect immediately after receiving your implant and when to contact our office for a follow-up. After your implants have healed and your restoration has been attached, you should stick to a home oral care routine that includes daily brushing and flossing. Annual exams and semiannual cleanings at James Peterson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are also a must so that Dr. Peterson can evaluate the health of your mouth and your implants. He will talk to you if your implants or restorations need to be adjusted, repaired, or replaced.
Dental Implants
Implants with custom restorations can be an excellent choice if you are looking for a natural-looking, permanent replacement for a missing tooth that is easy to care for. Dr. Peterson will explain all the details, including your restoration options. If you would like to learn more about implants, schedule a consultation at James Peterson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime when cared for properly. The implant becomes part of your jawbone, making it one of the most durable tooth replacement options. With good home care and routine visits, most implants remain stable for a lifetime.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients say the procedure is much easier than they expected. You’ll be completely numb during placement, and many people return to normal activities the next day. Any soreness afterward is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
How long does it take to get an implant from start to finish?
Most implant cases take 3–6 months, depending on healing and whether additional steps like bone grafting are needed. Some patients qualify for faster timelines, and we’ll outline your exact treatment plan at your consultation.
What is a bone graft and why might I need one?
A bone graft adds support to areas where the jawbone has thinned or shrunk. Not everyone needs one, but it helps create the stability an implant needs to last long-term. We’ll evaluate this with digital imaging to see if it’s necessary.
Are implants safe?
Yes. Dental implants have a long history of success and are considered one of the safest and most predictable dental procedures. We use high-quality materials and precise planning to ensure a stable, healthy outcome.
How do dental implants compare to bridges or dentures?
Implants look and function like natural teeth and help preserve your jawbone over time. Unlike dentures, they don’t shift or require adhesives. And unlike bridges, they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support.
What is recovery like after getting an implant?
Most patients experience mild swelling or tenderness for a couple of days. You can usually return to normal activities within 24 hours, and we provide simple home-care instructions to help the area heal smoothly.
How much do dental implants cost?
Implant costs vary based on how many teeth are being replaced and whether additional procedures are needed. We’ll give you a clear breakdown during your consultation and review any financing options to make treatment affordable.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults qualify for implants. We’ll take digital imaging to make sure your jawbone is strong enough and review your medical history. Even if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate before, modern techniques have expanded options for many patients.
Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it can slow healing and increase risk of complications. If you smoke, we’ll discuss how to support a successful outcome and whether temporary adjustments are needed.
Do implants look natural?
Yes. The crown attached to your implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Most people cannot tell which tooth is the implant.
How do I care for my dental implant?
Implants are cared for just like natural teeth: brushing, flossing, and routine hygiene visits. Good home care helps protect the gum tissue around the implant and ensures long-term success.
What is full-arch implant treatment (All-on-X)?
Full-arch implants replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth using a small number of implants for stability. This treatment is ideal for patients with failing teeth, denture frustration, or complex dental concerns.