Implant Dentistry To Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges that are removable, dental implants are permanently anchored into the jawbone. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. Over the course of a few weeks, the bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post is then attached to the implant to provide stable support for the new replacement teeth. When the treatment process is complete, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implants, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

For patients who have lost all of their natural teeth, whether from periodontal disease, tooth decay, or injury, there are permanent options available. As dental implants have become more popular, they have also become increasingly more affordable, allowing more patients to take advantage of this life-changing procedure. 

How Are Implants Placed?

Dental implant placement is usually a two-step process. First, the implant itself is placed into the jawbone. Then, the gum tissue is sutured over the implant site and allowed to heal for two to six months. During this time, your bone tissue will grow around the and fuse with the dental implant to create a strong, permanent foundation for tooth restoration. Once the implant has fused to the bone and the gum tissue has healed, you will return to your dentist’s office to receive the custom-made dental crown or other tooth replacement that is attached to the post portion of the dental implant. The entire process typically requires three to six months to complete; however, some situations allow for the placement of the post and temporary crown at the same time. 

What Are the Benefits of Implants?

Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Because they are permanently placed in the mouth, they function just like natural teeth. They are a convenient and effective way to replace one tooth or many teeth at once. The implant itself acts as an artificial root that fuses to the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. After the implant has healed in place, an abutment is secured to the top of the implant to connect and support the replacement tooth. With proper oral care and regular checkups, this restoration can last a lifetime.

• An implant does not require reducing other healthy adjacent teeth like a bridge does.
• Dental implants do not require the alteration of neighboring teeth as is necessary with a fixed bridge.
• Dental implants are not subject to decay in the bone around the dental implant.
• Dental implants stay in your mouth, allowing you normal speech and eating functions.
• Dental implants do not slip or make noise during speaking and eating, so you do not have to worry about them embarrassing you.
• Dental implants allow you to chew your food more thoroughly and properly.
• Dental implants allow your facial structure to look natural and beautiful since a tooth is replaced instead of missing.
• Dental implants leave your smile looking beautiful and full, so you can smile and show off your pearly whites!

What Are the Different Types of Implants?

The most popular type of dental implant is a root-form implant, where an artificial titanium tooth “root” is surgically implanted into your jawbone and fused to the bone through a process known as osseointegration. Once the artificial root is secured in your jaw, an abutment is attached to the top. The abutment is used to secure the crown that will replace your missing tooth or teeth.

A root-form implant can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth in a row, or even all of your teeth that are either missing or have been extracted by your dentist. Your dentist can help you determine which type of dental implant is right for you based on your individual oral and overall health needs.

Another popular option is an implant-supported denture. This treatment alternative involves placing four to six dental implants into the jaw to support a permanent denture instead of fitting the removable denture to your mouth with adhesive pastes. The implants function like a natural tooth root and provide stability and improved function for the false teeth. This type of treatment is extremely effective for patients who have severe gum disease or are missing a significant number of teeth. An implant-supported denture is also an excellent treatment option for patients who want to restore their smile with a full set of functional teeth but want to avoid invasive treatments such as a bone graft or sinus lift.

If you have any questions about general and cosmetic dentistry, feel free to contact our office at (310)-838-0844 today to learn more and schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have!