DENTAL IMPLANTS
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Missing teeth should be addressed as soon as possible, since leaving a gap between teeth can contribute to a set of oral health problems. Your other teeth will start shifting out of alignment to fill the gap. Your gums will become more vulnerable to infection. Plus, your jawbone will start to atrophy without the pressure of the tooth’s root pushing on it.
There are several solutions available for missing teeth. Dentures are a set of artificial teeth that can be removed at will. Dental bridges anchor one or several artificial teeth to the adjacent teeth, preventing them from going crooked. But the most permanent solution, and the one that’s best for oral health, is dental implants.
HOW DENTAL IMPLANTS WORK
A dental implant consists of two parts: an abutment, which is basically a metal rod implanted in the gums, and a crown, which is the artificial tooth itself. The abutment provides the needed pressure to keep your jawbone strong.
If your tooth has been missing for a while, you may need a bone graft to make your jawbone strong enough to support the implant. A piece of bone is extracted from elsewhere in your body and used to shore up your jaw. It can take several months of healing before the bone is ready for dental implant surgery.
Next, the abutment is inserted into your gums. After several more weeks of healing and settling in, the crown is finally placed. Dental implants are permanent and strong, though they should be treated with the same care as ordinary teeth. You will still need to brush and floss every day.
BENEFITS OF Dental Implants
Dental implants completely restore the functions of natural teeth. You will be able to speak and chew normally. Once the implant is installed, you won’t have to worry about it again. The artificial tooth is meant to last for decades. If it does wear down, it can be replaced.
Visit Valley Center Dental for dental implants in the San Diego, Orange County, and Imperial Valley areas. Schedule an appointment with us to get started.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
Patient Testimonials
“I love this office and the workers. I've gone here for over 40 years. They have taken care of our families needs.”
Peg Marrow
“Very friendly Dr. and staff. Dental work was excellent. Will definitely refer family and friends.”
Terry Kleiser
Jerry Janisch
