For replacing damaged or missing teeth, dental implants in San Diego are the gold standard! Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew, speak, and can cause further jawbone health problems. Implants are designed to prevent these adverse effects while giving you back your smile. They’re a much better option compared to dentures, partials, or fixed dental bridges. Due to their incredible durability and longevity, they’re a great permanent solution for missing or decaying teeth! If you are unaware of dental implants or want to learn if they are right for you, read on.
What Are Dental Implants?
The dental implant procedure replaces tooth roots with metal inserts and adds artificial teeth in place of missing or damaged ones. They look, function, and feel just like real teeth! Unlike traditional methods like dentures or fixed bridgework, the implant fuses to the jawbone, providing a secure foundation. They won’t wiggle, slip, decay, make noise, or cause bone damage.
The surgery can take many months and is performed in stages, providing healing time and bone growth between procedures. The steps include:
- Removing damaged teeth (if necessary)
- Bone grafting (if necessary)
- Adding titanium implants
- Abutment placement
- Adding the artificial tooth
Depending on the procedure, we may be able to combine some steps.
Benefits of Dental Implants
One of the main differences with dental implants is that they help the jawbone retain its strength. When it comes to bridges, dentures, and missing teeth, the pressure of daily chewing may cause the jawbone to recede. Jawbone atrophy will affect the shape and health of both the jaw and face. Dental implants prevent this by fortifying the jaw and increase bone density by naturally integrate into the jaw.
Additionally, when you lose a tooth, the other teeth beside it begin to shift to fill that empty space. This shifting results in misalignment, chipped teeth, and the risk of breaking. Dental implants fill this space, preventing the other teeth from moving, which removes the chance of damage.
Aside from the functional benefits, they’re a great option because they look and feel like natural teeth! They blend in with the other teeth, matching the natural look and color. You’ll be able to eat your favorite foods again and show off that award-winning smile!
Are They Right for You?
If you’re still unsure which option is best for you, our friendly dental staff is always willing to help. We can perform an initial consultation in our Rancho Peñasquitos office to determine if you’re the right candidate for implants. Dr. Carmichael will check your gums and mouth, bone density, medical conditions, and other requirements. Here are some indicators that they may be right for you:
- You have one or more teeth missing
- You have the adequate bone structure to secure implants (or can get a bone graft)
- Have healthy oral tissue
- Your jawbone has reached its full growth
- You don’t have any health conditions that will affect bone healing
- If you are unable to wear dentures (or want to find another option)
- Don’t smoke tobacco
- If you want to improve your speech
We’re Here to Help
Dental implants can be life-changing, allowing people to regain their chewing ability and give them back their charming smile. If you want to learn more or are ready to make your initial consultation, feel free to reach out! Our dental office is committed to providing our patients with the best dental implants in San Diego. You can reach us by phone at (858) 484-2560 or contact us right on our website.
