Dental Implants are a good solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (Synthetic Material) that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. Implants, which are permanent and stable, don’t depend on neighboring teeth for support.

Implants may be placed directly into the jaw bone, like natural tooth roots; the other implants however, are used when the jaw structure is limited, therefore, a custom-made metal framework fits directly on the existing bone. The aforementioned implants make up the different types of dental implants. Implant material is made up of different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials which are compatible with body tissue.

Implants which are strategically placed can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, getting rid of the need for a denture. Implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth though the cost tends to be greater.

Implants can be applied to people who are unable to use dentures. A person must be in good health as well as possess a proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. Furthermore, people who smoke or drink alcoholic beverages may not be good candidates for implants.

The procedure of implants is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the artificial root into or on the patient’s jaw bone. The process of implants can take up to nine months to complete. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. The healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months.

The success rate of implants is about ninety-five percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and eighty-five percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw. The success rate depends on the tooth’s purpose and location in the mouth.

Health may affect the success rate of implants. Failure of some implants is due to poor oral hygiene. It is necessary to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be important to ensure that you retain healthy gums.

Implants cost more than the traditional bridge work, since implants involve surgery. Some dental procedures and parts of the restoration, however, may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. The dentist can help the patient with this process and it is always best to consult the dentist before planning to undergo the process of implants.

DR. JOHN CHAVES
5312 Comercio Lane, Suite A
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Phone 818-999-2707
Fax 818-703-1998
appointment@cosmeticdentalservices.com