Dental Implants in Whittier - Ten Things You Need to Know

Understanding Dental Implants Procedures and Benefits

Dental implants are used for replacing missing and severely damaged teeth. They are made of titanium and placed directly into the jawbone. This makes them a permanent fixture that can last a lifetime with the proper maintenance. Call Whittier Square Dentistry and make an appointment with Dr Winston to see if you are a good candidate for this type of artificial teeth.

They are quite popular in this day and age due to the numerous benefits offered by them. If you have missing teeth due to whatever reason, you should consider this procedure to restore your smile and appearance with natural-looking teeth. This article provides information and benefits

Dentures vs Implants

Implants are more comfortable in your mouth since they are permanent fixtures and can’t be removed like dentures. You will have a better bite, a natural speech, and smile. People who wear dentures can have difficulty biting food and sometimes talking normally. This is where these artificial teeth are preferred over the traditional denture and bridges.

Since titanium implants will fuse with your jawbone, the teeth look similar to your natural teeth. Few people can tell the difference from a natural tooth.

Your natural smile will help improve your self-esteem and confidence over time. This is not the case with dentures. These are some of the reasons why they are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth.

What You Need To Know!

1. What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial replacements, an artificial tooth root. They’re small, screw-like posts made from biocompatible materials (like titanium). This is what your dentist places into your jawbone. Its purpose is to replace missing teeth. Pretty neat, right?

After it is in place, your bone needs some time to heal and bond with it (a process called osseointegration). Consequently, your dentist will attach a replacement tooth on top. This could be a crown if it’s just one tooth or a bridge or denture if you replace several teeth.

The best part? They look and feel just like your natural teeth. That means you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Plus, they’re designed to last a long time, even a lifetime, with proper care and regular teeth and gums check-ups.

In a nutshell, these are a safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for missing teeth. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to an accident, decay, or disease, these could be an excellent option.

Remember, chatting with your dentist to discuss your specific needs and whether this is the right choice is always essential. Happy smiling!

2. What are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to this. They come in various types, designed to cater to every individual’s unique dental needs and situations. Let’s explore these different types and better understand what might be the best fit for you.

Endosteal: This is the most common type of dental implant. They're shaped like small screws and are inserted directly into your mandible. They're a great restorative dentistry option. This effectively preserves oral health by preventing bone loss.
Subperiosteal: These are placed under the gum but on or above the mandible. This type may be used in patients who do not have a healthy natural lower jaw. Also, this is for those who cannot or do not want to undergo a bone augmentation procedure to rebuild it.
All-on-4 Dental Implants: This innovative technique allows for an entire arch of teeth to be supported by just four implants. It's a cost-effective solution for those needing to replace many teeth.
Zygomatic: These are the least common type. They're used if there's not enough mandible for the endosteal. This type is inserted into the cheekbone rather than the lower jaw.

So, there you have it, a quick guide to its different types. Remember, the best choice will always depend on your oral health. Consult with your dentist, ask questions, and make an informed decision that brings back your confident smile!

3. How Do They Work?

Think of it as a three-part system:

The Implant: This is a screw that serves as a root for your new tooth. It's made from a biocompatible material (usually titanium) and is inserted into your mandible. Over time, it fuses with your bone in osseointegration - pretty cool, right?
The Abutment: This permanent connector supports the tooth's visible part. It's often placed simultaneously, although sometimes it might be added later.
The Crown: This is the part of the tooth that you can see. It's custom-made to match the color and shape of your teeth, so no one will even know it's not natural!

So, how does it all come together? Well, your dentist will first surgically place it into your mandible. Then, you’ll have to wait for a few months for the bone to bond with it. Once that’s done, the abutment is attached to the implant. With this, the crown is attached to the abutment. Voila! You’ve got a new tooth that looks, feels, and functions naturally.

Remember, proper oral care and regular dental visits are essential to maintain them. So, brush, floss, and keep that smile gleaming!

4. What are their Benefits?

Here are the top benefits that you should know before getting them:

Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth: They look, feel, and function natural.
Preserve Bone Health: When you lose a tooth, the lower jaw in the space deteriorates due to lack of stimulation. These are the only restorative option that preserves and stimulates natural bone. With this, it helps to stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss.
No Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Unlike bridges, they don't require grinding down adjacent teeth. The rest are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral well-being.
Improve Oral Health: They help prevent oral health issues like gum disease by filling in the gaps where bacteria can build up. Plus, it's easy to brush and floss around them.
Predictable Outcome: This treatment is one of the most reliable and predictable restorative procedures. If you take good care of your oral well-being and visit our office regularly, they can last for decades.
Support Dental Restorations: These provide sturdy support for restorations like bridges and dentures. This is especially the case for those missing several teeth. They offer stability and comfort, making it easier to speak and eat.

Remember, it’s always best to consult your dentist to determine if implants are right for your needs. Our services today offer advanced options that might be perfect for you.

5. What To Expect With This Procedure?

Are you embarking on the journey towards a confident smile? Let’s walk through what you can expect during the procedure. It’s simpler than you might think, and with this guide, you’ll feel well-prepared and at ease. Here are the essential things to know:

Consultation: Your journey towards getting this treatment begins with a thorough consultation. With this, your doctor will evaluate your dental health and discuss your healthy mouth goals. Consequently, they will determine if this is the right tooth replacement option.
Preparation: Depending on your individual needs, you may require bone grafting or tooth extraction. This is done to prepare the site. This is to ensure that your mandible can support it.
Placement: The next step involves surgery, where these are inserted directly into your jawbone. Don't worry. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you should feel comfortable.
Healing: After placement, a process called osseointegration begins. This is when the titanium implant fuses with the bone, creating a solid foundation for your new teeth. This healing process can take several weeks or months, but patience is key here.
Abutment Placement: Once healing is complete, an abutment (a small connector post) is attached to this. This serves as the base for your new tooth.
Crown Placement: The crown (the tooth's visible part) is attached to the abutment. It's custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of the rest of the teeth, providing a natural-looking finish.

And there you have it – the journey from consultation to a restored smile. Though the process may seem lengthy, remember that each step is crucial to ensuring that your new look is natural and lasts long. With patience and proper dental care, you’ll soon be flashing that confident smile again!

6. What is the Cost?

First, We give free consultations!

Cost is often a crucial factor when opting for treatments. Let’s dive into the financial side and shed some light on the expected expenses. We’ll break it down from individual to additional procedures for you here.

Costs: These costs usually include the post, abutment (the connector), and crown placement. Other procedures like bone grafting or tooth extraction may increase the total cost.
Cost Variation: The cost can vary significantly depending on your situation.
Dental Insurance: While most insurance plans don't typically cover the total costs, it may cover a portion. It's always worth checking with our office to understand what's covered.

Remember, although they may seem costly upfront, they’re an excellent long-term investment. Consult your dental specialist or insurance provider for a more accurate estimate for your needs.

7. What is the Success Rate for Dental Implants?

On average, they are around 98 percent successful. This makes them a great and reliable choice for many people seeking tooth replacement options. Its success can be attributed to today’s advanced technology and the materials.

While they are usually successful, individual results can vary depending on several factors. This may include overall health, oral hygiene, and follow-up checks.

At its core, these are reliable, long-term solutions for tooth loss. They offer numerous benefits, such as improved appearance, comfort, and oral health. Hence, making them a worthwhile investment for many individuals.

8. What are the Most Common Causes of Failure?

Are you considering these replacements? While they are usually successful, it’s good to be informed about the potential risks. Here are some common causes of its failure that you should know:

Infection: The most common reason for failure is infection around it, such as peri-implantitis. Good dental care can help prevent this.
Failed Osseointegration: This happens when these don't correctly fuse with the mandible. Factors like poor bone health and smoking can contribute to failed osseointegration.
Misalignment: Misalignment during the implant process can lead to failure.
Nerve Damage: Placing them too close to a nerve can cause nerve damage.
Poor Oral Hygiene: They need the same care as the rest of your teeth. Poor oral care can lead to gum disease and other complications that can cause failure.
Medications: Certain medications can interfere with the healing process.
Teeth Grinding: Also known as bruxism, this can put excessive pressure on them, leading to failure.

Remember, while these risks exist, they remain a great option for many people. Always consult with your dentist to understand more about the procedure and how to ensure its success.

9. How do I Prepare Myself for My Implants?

Preparation is vital to ensuring a smooth procedure and recovery. Here are some tips on how to prepare for this treatment:

Stop Smoking: If you're a smoker, it's best to quit before getting dental implants. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and success rate.
Good Oral Care: Maintain a routine of brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. This is crucial in preparing you for this procedure.
Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can help boost your immune system and promote healing after the surgery.
Medication Review: Discuss any medications you're taking with your dentist. Certain medications might affect the process.
Arrange for Transportation: These are usually inserted under local anesthesia, but if sedation is used, you'll need someone to drive you home after.
Prepare for Recovery: Have a recovery area at home with plenty of soft foods and hydration. Rest is crucial in the days following the procedure.

Remember, every patient’s situation is unique, so consult with your dentist to know how to best prepare.

10. How to do Dental Implant Care?

Caring for them is just as important as the procedure itself. They require regular attention and care. Let’s dive into some essential tips and tricks to keep them healthy and long-lasting.

Maintain Oral Care: Just like teeth, implants must be cleaned daily. Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily.
Use the Right Tools: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching them. Interdental brushes can also help clean hard-to-reach areas around them.
Regular Checkups: Regular checkups allow your dentist to monitor them and ensure they function properly.
Avoid Hard Foods: While they are sturdy, chewing on hard foods like ice or hard candy can damage them.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken your bone structure and can contribute to its failure.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can interfere with its healing process.
Protect Them: If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect them.

While they are artificially designed, they still need careful attention. Consult with your dentist to learn more about them and the best practices in caring for them.

Debunking Dental Implant Myths and Misconceptions

These only last for ten years.

Contrary to this common myth, they are more than a decade-long solution. When properly cared for through a consistent oral hygiene routine and regular check-ups, they can last a lifetime. Hence, making them a worthwhile investment for long-term dental health. Their longevity depends mainly on the care and attention they’re given.

You cannot get them if your tooth extraction happened some time ago.

This is another myth. It’s never too late to consider getting a dental implant, even if your tooth extraction happened years ago. As long as you have a healthy jawbone that can support the artificial teeth or are eligible for a bone graft, you can still avail of this procedure.

They aren't for young people.

The myth that they aren’t suitable for young people is inaccurate. It’s true that these are typically not recommended for individuals whose jawbones are still growing. However, they are a good choice for adults of any age who have reached full growth. This offers a permanent solution for tooth loss that can significantly improve quality of life, regardless of age.

And there you have it! You’re now equipped with the 10 things you should know about these new permanent artificial teeth.

In conclusion, this is a great restorative solution for many individuals. They offer the look and feel of natural teeth and can boost confidence and overall quality of life. From understanding to debunking myths and misconceptions – we’ve covered a lot.

With this newfound knowledge, you’re ready to decide whether this is the right choice for you. Remember, your smile is as unique as you are, and it deserves the very best care. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist with any questions or concerns. It’s essential to consult with a dental professional to get the implants that best suit your needs.

Here’s to your journey toward a healthier, brighter smile!

Call Us NOW

We are just a phone call away for any information you need including insurance or budget questions. Our wonderful experienced dentists are eager to see your healthy teeth and beautiful smile! Good oral hygiene is our top priority. Also, be sure to call us right away if you have any symptoms of infection or dental risk factors that can create serious health conditions in your life.