Do you have one or more missing teeth? Dental implants are a great way to treat and replace lost teeth. They are permanent prosthetics that look and feel natural, require less maintenance than other restorative options, and help preserve natural bone. In addition, implants can also support a dental bridge or denture.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post that replaces the missing tooth root. After implant surgery, the post fuses to the bone and heals over a period of several months.
Then, your dentist places a dental crown or cap on the implant to complete the dental implant process. Dr. Karim Naguib and your restorative dental care team in Palmdale and Lancaster, CA provide affordable dental implant services under one roof.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dr. Karim Naguib of Premier Dental Care will assess your teeth and gums to determine if you are a good candidate for affordable dental implants. He may use an x-ray to determine if you have enough bone to place the implant. In addition, he will also determine the size of the implant and its location before treatment.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing teeth. No other restoration replaces the tooth root. When you’re missing the tooth root, that jawbone begins to deteriorate in that area.
Your face sags and you may notice a prematurely aged look because of this effect. Dental implants stop this deterioration from continuing and can even help spur bone regeneration because of the fusing process.
Because of this tooth root replacement, dental implants are the most stable restoration as well. You get back 100% of your bite function with implants, compared to about 30-40% with traditional dentures. You’re able to eat a full diet and don’t have to worry about your restoration slipping or falling out.
Implants are easy to take care of, too. Dentures require messy adhesive and removal to clean them properly. With implants, you just have to brush and floss like you normally would.
Implants are a permanent, lifetime restoration, so you also don’t have to worry about replacing or adjusting them over time. Just continue to see your dentist regularly so we can make sure everything is going well!
Why Restore Missing Teeth?
When you lose a single tooth, other teeth surrounding it may begin to shift and cause overcrowding. Crooked and overcrowded teeth can be difficult to clean, and bacteria or plaque can build up on or between teeth, causing inflammation and decay.
When a dentist places a dental implant, he positions it within the bone where the prior tooth was once there. This prevents teeth from shifting and ultimately can help protect teeth from decay.
Dental implants offer several advantages over other restorative methods:
- Better aesthetics. Your dentist places dental implants in the gum line and caps them with a natural-looking dental crown. Because of this, the results will look more realistic than other alternatives.
- Retention. Dental implants improve denture retention for patients who are missing multiple or all teeth. Your dentist can also secure dentures with a group of dental implants for permanent support.
- Preserving natural tooth structure. The tooth structure can recede after you lose a tooth. However, placing a dental implant reduces the speed of bone resorption and provides stability for bone tissue. In addition, implants do not negatively affect adjacent teeth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Do I need special care to maintain my dental implant?
No, you do not need special care to keep your dental implants in good condition. You do not need to buy special creams or products as you would with dentures. They will last a lifetime as long as you are keeping up with your bi-yearly dentist visits, and keeping a healthy and excellent oral care routine.
Can I remove or replace my dental implants?
Although dental implants are a permanent dental restoration, your dentist can remove your dental implant in an emergency, or in other unique situations. You will not be able to remove your own dental implant at home.
Can I whiten my dental implants?
No, like many prosthetic dental repairs, a dentist can not whiten dental implants with normal teeth whitening treatments. Although, on the plus side they do not stain easily. The crowns of dental implants are porcelain. Porcelain is a highly stain-resistant material. You would have to have your implant for a very long time to see any staining on the prosthetic.
How painful is getting a dental implant?
Because dental implants require oral surgery to place them, you can expect some discomfort. The dentist uses proper local anesthetics and sedation to place dental implants and ensure patient comfort from start to finish.
Afterward, over-the-counter pain medications, including ibuprofen or acetaminophen, reduce pain and discomfort as the mouth heals.
Are dental implants a permanent solution for tooth loss?
Yes. Many patients choose to proceed with dental implants because proper care can ensure they last a lifetime. The implant itself binds to the natural jawbone through a process known as osseointegration, providing a strong and durable foundation for holding the implant in place. However, the restorations used on top of the dental implant, specifically over the abutment, might need replacement over time.
Do dental implants get cavities?
The tooth implant itself is not susceptible to cavities. There is no tooth when the dentist puts the dental implant in place. However, the teeth around the implant are susceptible to cavities. Regular evaluations and cleanings are essential in keeping the smile healthy and reducing the risk of losing restorations or natural teeth.
Request an Appointment Today
Do you want a fuller and more balanced smile? Receive dental implants today. Single or multiple implants on their own or with other restorative solutions can make a big difference.
Call our Lancaster, CA dentist office at (661) 948-6700 or schedule a dental visit to our Lancaster dentist office online.
Call our Palmdale, CA dentist office at (661) 273-6565 or schedule a visit to our Palmdale dentist office online.