Dental implants are a proven way to restore function, balance and beauty to your smile. Implants look, act and feel just like your natural teeth. The titanium posts of implants also keep the jawbone stimulated, just as the roots of natural teeth do; and this prevents the bone loss and changes to your facial profile that can occur with missing teeth or dentures.
Here, San Diego area dentist Dr. Jennifer D. Santoro discusses the process, timeline and available options for a dental implant procedure.
Stable and Resilient
Implants are a long-lasting solution to missing or damaged teeth. Because implants are anchored in your jaw bone, they are stable and will not slip or move. You won’t fear biting into tough foods, or wonder if your teeth might fall out during a conversation.
As technology has advanced, implants have become stronger and more long-lasting. In fact, your new implant will probably be stronger than the tooth it replaces. Studies have shown that 95 percent or more of patients can expect implants to last at least 30 years. In cases where all teeth have been replaced, that success figure ranges from 80 to 90 percent.
The Procedure
A full or partial set of implants is possible in as few as three months. The first step is to surgically implant the titanium posts in the jaw, then allow time for the roots to fuse with the bone and for the jaw to heal. Once the posts are firmly in place, a natural-looking artificial tooth is attached to the top. If bone grafting or jaw surgery are required, however, the time period could extend to six months. The actual time spent in the dentist’s chair is not significantly different from that of other dental procedures.
Patients report that there is actually less discomfort than would typically be experienced during a tooth extraction. Dr. Santoro uses local anesthetic for dental implant placement, and also offers intravenous sedation if requested. Most of the discomfort will occur at home, after the anesthesia wears off. Swelling and discomfort can be effectively managed by medications that will be prescribed for you.
Implants and Bridges
Patients may choose to replace one tooth or several teeth, or opt for a complete full-mouth restoration. In addition, implants are often used to anchor dental bridges. Implants are especially useful for the lower jaw: While upper dentures cover the roof of the mouth, lower dentures leave space for the tongue, and as a result tend to be less stable.
A customized arch of fabricated artificial teeth can be held in place in the mouth by as few as four dental implants. With these four implants placed strategically across your upper mouth, and four on the bottom, you can enjoy a full set of securely attached, functional teeth.
To schedule your appointment, or to learn more about dental implants, call Dr. Santoro at (858) 566-8510, or email Village Center Dentistry in Scripps Ranch today.
