Complete Guide to Dental Implants: Benefits & Process

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By Sunrise Dental Center

Dental implants are one of the most popular ways to replace missing teeth. They do not provide a solution purely for aesthetics; they also offer numerous benefits for oral health and overall quality. Whether due to injury, decay, or simply aging, if you are missing a tooth, dental implants may be the solution you’ve been searching for. This guide aims to provide information on the benefits of dental implants and how they offer a better solution than other alternatives.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into your jawbone to serve as a root for a missing tooth. Once this has fused with your jawbone, a crown, bridge, or denture is placed on top of it to replace your tooth. Unlike other forms of dental replacement, a dental implant replaces both the root and the tooth.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Increased Aesthetic Value

Dental implants in Huntington Beach, CA, are designed to resemble and function like your natural teeth. Because they are customized, they blend perfectly with the rest of the teeth, enhancing the smile without leaving spaces.

Advanced Features

Implants enable you to enjoy all functions that your teeth perform, including eating, speaking, and smiling. Implants are fixed, so you do not have to worry about them sliding, as happens with dentures.

Preservation of Bone Health

When a tooth is missing, the bone in your jaw starts degenerating because of a lack of stimulation in that area. Dental implants prevent bone degradation by stimulating your jawbone. Unless treated, bone loss can alter the shape of your face.

Long-Term Durability

If they receive proper care and attention, dental implants can last for many years, and in some cases, a lifetime. They are very durable and unlikely to develop cavities. 

Enhanced Dental Health 

Dental implants help maintain your other teeth by not requiring modifications to adjacent teeth, unlike a bridge. Also, they help maintain your bite. This is because they prevent your other teeth from shifting.

The Process of Dental Implants.

The dental implant procedure is time-consuming but well worth it. A dental implant procedure that involves more than one stage and takes more than one visit. We’ve got the details for you, step by step.

Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation

On your first visit, your dentist checks your oral health to determine whether you are a candidate for implants. This could include using a 3D image and X-rays of your bone to assess the bone structure and support for the implant. 

Stage 2: Implant Insertion

The implant procedure is usually conducted under local anaesthesia, so you will not experience pain during surgery. The dentist will create a slit in your gum and place the titanium post in your jawbone. Through a process called osseointegration, the implant will fuse with the bone over time. This usually takes several months.

Step 3: Healing and Integration

Once the implant is placed, you will need to heal. During this process, your implant will become secure in the jaw. To ensure optimal healing and avoid complications, it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions.

Step 4: Place the Abutment

When the implant bonds to your jawbone, the dentist will attach the abutment, a small connector piece, to it. This abutment will anchor your new crown, bridge, or denture in place.

Step 5: Placement of the Crown

Finally, your dentist will place a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture on top of the abutment, completing your dental implant. The result will be a fully functional and natural-looking replacement tooth that blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.

How to Maintain Your Dental Implants

Although dental implants require little maintenance, they still need occasional attention to continue functioning correctly. To help you care for your new dental implants in Huntington Beach, CA, follow these helpful tips: 

  • It is essential to properly brush and floss your new implants regularly to prevent plaque buildup and maintain a healthy oral environment.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups so they can assess the overall health of your Dental Implants and determine whether they are functioning as intended.
  • Do not chew hard items with your new implants or use them for package opening. This will result in damage to them. At least take some time before returning to your regular eating habits. 
  • If you feel any pain or discomfort in your implants, contact your dentist so they can treat any issues as soon as possible.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

If you decide to pursue dental implant services in Huntington Beach, you will have access to an amazing and caring group of experienced professionals who are committed to providing you with a positive experience throughout the entire process. Sunrise Dental Center offers state-of-the-art facilities with the latest technology, so your dental implants look, feel, and function as good as new for as long as possible. The highly trained team of skilled dental professionals will provide you with a thorough consultation and evaluation to develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Are You Ready To Begin Your Journey To Restoring Your Smile?

Dental implants in Huntington Beach, CA, can be the perfect way to restore or enhance your oral health and restore the beauty of your smile. If you are in Huntington Beach or the surrounding communities, contact us for a consultation. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to explain how dental implants can restore your oral health, enhance your smile, and give you new confidence.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

The easiest way to have the smile you want is to get started now! Come to Sunrise Dental Center for an appointment and begin your path toward a healthier, happier smile.

FAQs

What are some advantages of dental implants vs dentures?

Dental implants are more secure and stable. They provide better function and comfort than removable dentures. Implants don’t require glue and won’t move around as dentures do.

How long will my dental implants last?

The average lifespan of a dental implant with proper care is a lifetime. The crown or bridge on top of the dental implant generally needs to be replaced every 10-15 years.

Will I feel pain during the dental implant procedure?

The dentist will perform the dental implant procedure using a local anesthetic, so you will not feel any pain. Generally, the patient will experience mild discomfort after surgery, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter analgesics.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Generally speaking, people with good overall health and sufficient bone density for dental implants are good candidates. You should see a dentist for a consultation to confirm that you meet the requirements.

How should I care for my implants?

Good hygiene practices are necessary for caring for implants, just as you would for your natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly, avoid eating hard foods, and have regular dental check-ups with your dentist.

What happens if I don’t get a dental implant after losing a tooth?

Failing to replace a missing tooth can lead to shifting of surrounding teeth, bone loss, and difficulty eating or speaking. Dental implants prevent these issues and help maintain oral health.