There are many ways that you can replace missing teeth. What makes dental implants stand out among all the options? Dr. Ken Schweifler explains Los Altos, CA dental implants, and why you should choose them to replace your missing teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. An implant is made up of three separate parts. First, titanium posts are actually surgically placed in your jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to connect the post to the final restoration. The final restoration is most commonly a dental crown, but dental implants can also support a dental bridge or fixed denture.
The Perks of Dental Implants
There’s a reason why implants are considered the gold standard. They’re the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root in addition to the crown. When you lose a tooth and the tooth root, your jawbone begins to deteriorate. The implant post helps by stopping or even reversing that deterioration. The implant prompts bone regeneration so that it can fuse with the jawbone.
Replacing the tooth root also means that you have more stability than other restorations. Dentures only give you back about 30-40% of your bite function. Dental implants give you back 100%. You don’t have to eliminate any foods from your diet or worry about problems with your speech.
Dentures can feel bulky and take time to get used to. Since they replace the root, implants both look and feel the most natural of any tooth-replacement option. Removable options may require adhesive and they have to be taken out and thoroughly cleaned each night. With implants, you can stick to a normal oral healthcare routine of regularly brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist for general dentistry and checkups.
The Dental Implants Process
To start, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Schweifler. He’ll talk to you about your budget, concerns, and medical history. He’ll also perform a thorough oral examination. Dental implants require you to have a certain amount of jawbone to support the dental implants and give them the stability you’re looking for.
If you’re eligible, the surgical implantation will come first. Technology is used to ensure that the posts are placed in the optimal area and at the best angle for them to be successful. It takes 3-6 months for the posts to heal and fuse with the jawbone. When this is done, an abutment is attached to connect the implant post to the final restoration.
Usually, the final restoration is a dental crown. However, depending on the number of dental implants and their placement, a fixed bridge or denture may be the best option for you.
Getting Dental Implants in Los Altos, California
Do you think dental implants can be the right choice to replace your missing teeth? Call us today or schedule an appointment online.