Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz, CA
Dental implants are the new “go-to” solution for replacing missing teeth. Whether you have one tooth to replace or all of your teeth, dental implants can provide you with a permanent tooth replacement option that is most like a natural tooth. If you are considering dental implants in Scotts Valley or are just now learning about them for the first time, be sure to consider these five important factors first.
Dental implants – The basics
A dental implant essentially looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, which functions just like the root of an actual tooth. The implant also serves as an anchor for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Therefore, you can replace one or all of your missing teeth with dental implants. The best part about dental implants is that you cannot tell them apart from your natural teeth, and neither can anybody else!
How are dental implants made?
Titanium, the most common material used for a dental implant, is biocompatible, meaning it is naturally accepted by the body. You should not have to worry about the implant causing any allergic reactions. Atop of the implant is a metal abutment that serves as a connector piece to a specially made porcelain crown that looks just like a natural tooth.
Dental implants are not always the best option for everyone
The best way to determine if a dental implant is right for you is to undergo a consultation with your Scotts Valley cosmetic dentist. Patients with severe bone loss or certain health conditions may not be good candidates for this type of procedure, but only the dentist will know for certain. It could be that you require additional surgical procedures to ensure you have enough healthy jawbone to sustain a dental implant.
Treatment plans are a must
Before any surgery can take place for the implant, you must have a consultation with your cosmetic dentist to determine an effective treatment plan. This plan will outline which procedures are needed for your case, the cost, and timeline of getting your implant. It also allows the dentist an opportunity to assess your jawbone structure and determine the best placement of the implant. During your consultation, take time to ask any questions that you may have about your dental implant procedure.
Timeline of getting a dental implant
The dental implant can be placed in a single appointment. However, the jawbone needs time to heal and fuse to the implant before the remaining portion of the procedure is completed. Healing time for patients will vary but in general, takes several months or longer.
Dental Implants in Scotts Valley
To learn more about dental implants or other cosmetic dentistry procedures in the Scotts Valley, contact Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry by calling (831) 438-4411 and schedule a consultation.
Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry provides total oral health care for patients located in the California communities of Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley.
