Dental Implants

The Problem:

Potential bite and jaw joint problems from teeth shifting to fill the space

The “sunken face” look associated with missing teeth

Desire for a more permanent solution than dentures

Loose or unstable dentures and partial dentures

The Solution:

A dental implant is an appliance used by our dentist in Pasadena to replace the roots of teeth. The implant is surgically attached to the jaw bone and an artificial tooth is attached to the top of the implant, creating a natural looking, undetectable replacement for the missing tooth. In the event that more than one tooth is missing, several implants may provide a base for a series of artificial teeth known as a fixed bridge (see fixed bridges).

Stabilize partial dentures
Natural Looking
Improve chewing ability
Less discomfort

Implants can even be used to secure a full set of removable dentures for people who have no remaining natural teeth. This can greatly improve chewing ability and eliminate the hassles and problems of loose dentures. With dental implants assisting a denture, the need to use denture adhesives or creams, and the discomfort of denture sores will be a thing of the past. Dental implants can also be used to stabilize partial dentures in a similar fashion as with full removable dentures.

It generally takes about four to six months for the surgical implant to heal before the final installation of the artificial tooth or teeth can be finished.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental implants with artificial teeth are the closest thing to regrowing your natural teeth. They are strong, stable, durable and virtually undetectable. By filling gaps left by missing teeth, implants can provide better chewing ability and head off jaw joint problems. They are far superior to removable dentures in most aspects.

Transcript

Prestige Dental – Family, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements for missing teeth. They closely resemble natural teeth which allow for completely natural-looking results.

Patients looking to get dental implants should be able to commit to routine visits to the dentist, maintain excellent oral care habits, refrain from smoking and be in good overall health while having enough bone to successfully support the implant.

From start to finish, the dental implant procedure can take anywhere from four to six months. The longest portion of the procedure includes allowing the gums to heal around the implantation site.

Dental implants are the most effective, long-term solution to replacing missing teeth. In addition, they require only minimal care while restoring your smile and boosting your confidence.

If you would like to know more about dental implants, feel free to contact us by dialing 626.577.2017.

We are located at 1060 East Green Street, Suite 203 in Pasadena. We look forward to giving you a smile you can be proud of!

What are the disadvantages of dental implants?

Dental implants are excellent, state-of-the-art restorations and have few disadvantages when compared to alternatives such as dentures. However, dental implants do require surgery and time to heal, and they are initially more expensive than dentures or fixed bridges. These disadvantages are offset by the ease of use, saved time and long term health benefits of implants.

What are the alternatives to dental implants?

Dentures are an alternative to dental implants. In situations where finances are a primary concern, dentures may be the best alternative. In certain conditions, fixed bridges may be an acceptable alternative to dental implants.

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants can be successfully placed in patients that have…

Suitable bone support:

Dental implants are fused to the bone for anchor support. This means that adequate bone density is required for dental implant success.

Good health — Good overall health:

The procedure for dental implants is a surgical procedure, so it is imperative that you be in good overall health.

Healthy gums:

Your gums will support the dental implants while they fuse to the jawbone. Patients with periodontal (gum) disease may not have the adequate support needed for the implant to fuse.

Commitment to oral care:

Regardless of how or why you lost your natural teeth and need dental implants, it is extremely important that once you get the dental implants that you care for them properly while also scheduling routine cleanings and exams with our Pasadena dentist at Prestige Dental. Keeping healthy oral habits will ensure that your dental implants remain in good shape.

Is there an age limit for dental implants?

No. However, dental implants are not usually placed in children as their jawbones are still maturing and growing and as a result, usually do not have the adequate bone density needed for dental implant placement. This does mean that adults of all ages in overall good health and after examination can benefit from dental implants.

Are there any medical conditions or habits that will interfere with dental implants?

Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular problems, blood, or bone problems (dyscrasia), or if you are undergoing cancer treatment procedures like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may interfere with your ability to successfully receive dental implants. Additionally, habits like smoking or chewing tobacco are also strongly discouraged when getting dental implants.

The Dental Implant Procedure

Appointments and planning:

These include the initial examination, the diagnostic imaging of the tooth, a questionnaire about your medical and dental history, and a conversation with your dentist about your treatment options.

Placement:

We are talking about the placement of the implants that will be used to support the replacement teeth. Temporary teeth can be placed while the implant is integrated into the natural bone to form a solid base for the replacement teeth. Most people return to work the next day, and any type of discomfort can be treated with regular-use analgesics.

Abutments:

The placement of the abutments (the small extension that will connect the replacement teeth on each implant, if necessary) is also an important step of the teeth replacement process.