Oral & Facial Surgery Institute of Houston
Dental Implants in Houston & Pearland
Missing one or more teeth? Dental implants can support a crown, bridge, or denture. At OFSIH, Dr. L.T. Johnson plans and performs implant surgery, then coordinates the final restoration with a prosthodontist or restorative dentist of your choice.
How implant treatment works
An implant is placed in the jawbone to provide support for a replacement tooth or teeth. Your plan depends on the number of missing teeth, bone volume, gum health, medical history, and restorative goals. Imaging and an examination help determine whether implant placement, grafting, or another option is appropriate.
Implant options
These options replace different numbers of teeth. Dr. Johnson evaluates the bone and places implants; a prosthodontist or restorative dentist designs and delivers the final teeth. The right approach depends on your examination and goals.
Single dental implant
For one missing tooth, an implant may support an individual crown. OFSIH places the implant; your restorative dentist provides the final crown.
Implant-supported bridge
For several missing teeth, implants may support a bridge. The number and position of implants are planned with the restorative dentist.
Snap-on implant denture
A removable denture can attach to implants for added retention. You remove it for cleaning. Learn about implant-supported dentures.
Fixed full-arch teeth (All-on-X)
A full-arch bridge attaches to implants and is not removed by the patient for daily cleaning. Implant count and temporary teeth depend on the surgical and restorative plan. Explore full-arch treatment.
Zygomatic implants
For selected patients with limited bone in the upper jaw, implants anchored in the cheekbone may offer another route to full-arch restoration. Dr. Johnson uses CT imaging to determine whether this approach is appropriate.
What to expect
- Evaluation: We review your goals, health history, examination, and imaging.
- Planning: Dr. Johnson reviews implant position, available bone, and whether extraction or grafting is needed. Sedation options are discussed when appropriate.
- Surgery: The implant is placed according to the individualized plan.
- Healing and restoration: Healing varies by case and may take months. Your chosen restorative dentist completes the crown, bridge, or denture when appropriate.
When bone grafting may be part of the plan
Not everyone needs grafting. When bone support is limited, the procedure depends on the site: grafting at an extraction site, ridge augmentation after significant bone loss or pathology, or a sinus lift for selected upper-jaw implant sites. The need and timing are determined after examination and imaging.
For full-arch treatment, review All-on-4 implant options.
Common questions
Am I a candidate?
Many adults can be considered. Health conditions, gum health, available bone, and restoration goals affect the plan. A consultation is needed to determine your options.
How long does treatment take?
Timing varies. Extractions, grafting, healing, and restoration may occur in stages. Your team will explain the sequence for your case.
Is sedation available?
Local anesthesia is used for implant surgery. IV sedation may be available when appropriate after review of your health and procedure.
How do I care for implants?
Daily cleaning and regular dental visits are essential. Your surgeon and restorative dentist will give care instructions tailored to your restoration.