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Dental Implants

One missing tooth or several missing teeth can make eating, speaking, and smiling difficult. By placing dental implants, Dr. Rick Heard can replace lost tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, and dentures. At Gulf Coast Periodontics in Victoria, TX, we use the highest quality, titanium-reinforced dental implants for natural-looking results.

Dental Implant Before and After Photos

before rotted upper teeth dental implants
Before
after dental implants
After
We placed implants at our Victoria, TX, practice to improve this patient's oral health, function, and appearance. All of the upper teeth in the jaw were removed, and titanium implants were placed. Now, he has a high-quality denture that looks like natural teeth.

CEREC® system

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Whether you are missing just one tooth or several teeth, implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures allow you to once again speak clearly, eat the food you love, and smile with confidence.

Patients with a missing tooth or dentures that are unstable are often unhappy with their smiles. Contact Gulf Coast Periodontics online to ask a question or request a consultation about your restorative dentistry options. You can also reach us in Victoria, TX, by phone.

Call: (361) 573-1014

"I had a great experience with my implant treatment. The staff was awesome! I highly recommend Dr. Heard for your implant treatment. A superb way to replace a missing tooth." Lupe B.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Natural Feel and Function

Implant-supported restorations replace the entire tooth, meaning they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.

Improved Oral Health

Implants are the only treatment that can stop jaw atrophy after tooth loss, making them more beneficial to your oral health.

Lasting Results

With the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime. As always, brushing, flossing, and six-month checkups are essential.

Dental Implant Placement Process

In some cases, patients may qualify for immediate placement of dental implants after tooth extraction or the immediate placement of a temporary restoration after implant surgery. We will determine the specifics of your treatment plan during a pre-op consultation.
The osseointegration process typically takes three to six months.
The osseointegration process typically takes three to six months.

Sedation

To begin the dental implant treatment process at our Victoria practice, one of our board-certified anesthesiologists will administer IV sedation.

Implant Placement

Next, Dr. Heard will embed the implant into the jawbone, creating a stable, secure base for your restoration. If one tooth is missing, just one implant will be placed. If tooth loss is more widespread, additional implants will be placed.

Stitches

Stitches will be placed to close the incisions and complete the surgery. Depending on how quickly your recovery is progressing, your stitches will be removed one to two weeks after surgery.

Osseointegration

Dr. Heard will monitor your healing to ensure that the dental implants fully integrate with your jaw. This process typically takes three to six months.

Abutment

After the osseointegration healing period is complete, we can attach the abutment to the dental implants. This is the piece of hardware that connects the implants to the restoration.

Custom Restoration

When healing of the abutment is complete, a process that takes about two weeks, you will return to your dentist to receive your crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental Implant Side Effects

Swelling

Applying ice packs against your cheeks during the first 48 hours can reduce swelling, discomfort, and bruising. You can also sleep with your head elevated to further ease any swelling.

Pain

Prescription pain medication will help with discomfort following surgery. Depending on your particular needs, Dr. Heard may recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription meds.

Bleeding

Dr. Heard will provide gauze to stop minor bleeding in your gums. Contact us immediately if you notice any excessive blood loss, as this could be a sign of a complication.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Studies have shown that with proper care and regular checkups, dental implants can last a lifetime. Once you receive your permanent restoration, you should continue your regular dental hygiene routine. Be sure to brush twice and floss once per day. Biannual visits to the dentist should be prioritized to ensure that the implants remain stable and healthy.
By embedding the implant into the jawbone, Dr. Heard creates a stable, secure base for your restoration.
"I have been under the care of Dr. Heard and Lisha for about 12 years now. I was once told by a dentist that I would likely lose all my teeth by the time I turned 50. Well, I'm 65 now and the 3 teeth I did lose were replaced by implants. It looks like I will get to keep the rest. Anyone who is looking at the worst should try Dr. Heard first before giving up their teeth!" Anonymous Patient
Dr. Rick Heard

Dr. Rick Heard

Dr. Heard is board-certified in periodontology and dental implant surgery with over 15 years of experience in the field. He is also a member of multiple prestigious organizations, including:

  • The American Academy of Periodontology
  • The American Dental Association
  • The McGuire Institute

Find out if you are a candidate for dental implants by requesting an appointment online or calling (361) 573-1014 today.

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After multiple years of avoiding a dental issue, I visited Dr. Heard. In a short period of time, I went from what I thought was a hopeless dental problem, to a complete solution. I now have a full understanding of my procedure, the timeline, and even exact costs.

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