Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Missing teeth can have a lot of implications for surrounding teeth and jawbone health. When you lose a tooth, whether by an extraction or an accident, it’s important for your oral health to replace the tooth as quickly as possible. When it comes to restoring your smile and confidence, dental implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting, natural-looking and fully functional solutions available.
Our Santa Cruz cosmetic dentist’s office has compiled this comprehensive guide to help you understand what dental implants are, how they work and whether they might be the right option for you.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants begin with a titanium post — an artificial tooth root — that our implant dentist in Scotts Valley surgically inserts in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Over time, the post fuses to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This begins the process of the post stimulating the jawbone, which is an important part of oral health. Without stimulation, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate, putting a person at risk of losing teeth around the missing one. Once the titanium post is fully fused, it provides a sturdy base for a crown, bridge or denture, restoring both the look and function of your smile.
What’s the process like?
Getting dental implants may seem like a daunting process, but it’s quite simple:
Step 1: Consultation and planning
Our Scotts Valley cosmetic dentist will schedule a comprehensive exam, complete with X-rays and oftentimes digital imaging. This helps in the development of a customized treatment plan.
Step 2: Implant placement
We will surgically place the titanium post into the jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia and is surprisingly well-tolerated by most patients.
Step 3: Healing
Osseointegration occurs, usually over the following three to six months. You may wear a temporary restoration during this time.
Step 4: Abutment placement
Once healed, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant.
Step 5: Final restoration
Finally, our Los Gatos cosmetic dentist will custom-make a crown, bridge or denture and secure it to the abutment, completing your new smile.
FAQs About Dental Implants
Q: Are dental implants painful?
A: Most patients report only mild discomfort, similar to a tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient for recovery.
Q: How do I care for implants?
A: Just like natural teeth! Brush twice a day, floss daily and visit our Santa Cruz cosmetic dentist regularly.
Q: Who’s a good candidate for dental implants?
A: The ideal patient should have healthy gums and have enough bone to support the implant (or be eligible for bone grafting). They should also be healthy, free from uncontrolled chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease, and they should be a non-smoker or willing to stop smoking during healing.
DENTAL IMPLANTS IN SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ, AND LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
If you’re missing one or more teeth and are ready to explore a long-lasting solution, dental implants might be right for you. At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — from the first consultation to your brand-new smile. Call us today at (831) 824-5111or reach out to us online to schedule your implant consultation today.
