SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ CA
Researching tooth replacement options can yield multiple treatments from which to choose. From a dental bridge to partial dentures, you can restore your smile and fill in the missing tooth area. Unfortunately, the restorations are temporary and require repair or replacement over time. Fortunately, our Santa Cruz cosmetic dentists at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry offer dental implants, the most stable, permanent option to replace missing teeth. Today on the blog, we answer five questions about dental implants so that you can make an informed decision about your tooth replacement options.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement solution that uses a titanium post that’s surgically implanted into your jawbone. Then, a color-matched porcelain dental crown covers the top of the post to provide a bite surface and natural appearance. The titanium post helps your jaw absorb the shock from bite pressures, provides implant stability, and stimulates your jawbone to keep it healthy. Some patients wonder if the implant will stand out and draw the attention of others. Fortunately, due to the realistic look of the dental crown, dental implants blend with your other teeth and look completely natural.
How can I tell if I need a dental implant?
Patients with extensive tooth damage from decay or who have missing teeth can benefit from dental implants to restore functionality. In some cases, we can successfully restore your teeth with alternative treatments like bridges or crowns. However, our Scotts Valley implant dentists warn patients that alternative treatments are temporary and may require additional time and money for repairs or replacements. The best way to find out if you need a dental implant is to schedule a consultation today.
Should my dentist have special training or qualifications?
Yes, your dentist should be abreast of new restorative dentistry treatments to improve your overall success rate. Dr. Max and Dr. Ariana studied at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and continue to pursue the most recent dental industry techniques and training. Feel free to ask questions about our experience and training at your next office visit.
What is the average success rate for dental implants?
In most cases where the patient has healthy teeth and gums, the success rate for dental implants is 98 percent. Patients who are meticulous about their oral health care and are non-smokers have better success than those who fail to care for their oral health or smoke. Fortunately, smoking doesn’t guarantee implant failure. However, it can slow your body’s healing process and result in possible infections. Therefore, our Los Gatos cosmetic dentists will review your oral and overall health history and medications to be sure you qualify for dental implants.
Why are dental implants superior to other tooth replacement options?
Dental implants provide multiple benefits to replace your tooth, protect your jawbone, and restore your smile. Most other treatments fail to deliver the same, or even close to, the benefits of dental implants. For example, there is no other missing tooth treatment that can stimulate your jawbone and help prevent additional tooth loss. One of the best features is that the implant doesn’t move or slip like dentures, and it can aid in eating tough foods like steak or crusty bread. Finally, the most appealing aspect of dental implants is that they are permanent tooth replacements that can last the rest of your life when you care for them properly.
Dental Implants in Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley, California
Smiling with a gap from a missing tooth may cause reduced self-esteem and create embarrassment in social situations. Additionally, your missing tooth may cause your teeth to shift their alignment, alter your bite pattern, causing trouble or pain when chewing. Therefore, if you have a missing tooth and would like to know more about dental implants or are ready to schedule your consultation, feel free to contact our Scotts Valley implant dentists at (831) 438-4411 or contact us online.