An implant is a titanium post placed in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Dental implants replace the lost roots of the teeth where a crown or bridge could be placed on top to act as a natural tooth. Crowns that are attached to dental implants are secure, natural-looking, and can be adjusted or re-tightened over time, allowing for a long-term solution to enhancing your smile.

Depending on the situation, implants can be placed the same day as removing a tooth or years after a tooth has been lost. Modern root-form dental implants have been in clinical practice for over 30 years. Recent advancements have improved the speed of healing and success rates and expanded the clinical scenarios where implants can be utilized. It is truly an exciting time to be involved with implant dentistry.

Why Get Dental Implants

Reasons why you might consider dental implants:

• To replace missing teeth without impacting the adjacent teeth
• To resolve jaw joint pain (TMJ)
• To reduce problems with your bite caused by missing teeth
• To restore your confidence with an improved smile
• To replace removable dentures and enhance the way your dentures fit
• To restore or enhance your facial tissues

What Does Getting Dental Implants Involve?

From start to finish, the process of receiving dental implants can take several months and up to five or six visits. Initially, dental X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken to determine and fully understand the issues related to the teeth, gum tissue, bone and overall structure of the region of the dental implant. After the local anesthesia has been applied and while the region of the mouth is numb, the dental surgeon will surgically place the implant into the bone of the jaw. It can take up to six months for the implant to fully adhere and bond to the jawbone, which will require scheduled checkups to monitor the progress.

Depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the surgeon may perform a second surgery to insert a “post” that will be used to hold the artificial tooth in place. After a second period of healing (typically two weeks), the artificial teeth are secured to the implant. The end result is a secure structure that you can be confident with for years to come. After a period of several weeks, the artificial teeth are joined to the post portion of the anchor; this stage can require several fittings and one to two months to complete. Throughout the treatment process, you will receive specific instructions and care guidelines.

Smoker’s Risk

Studies have proven that smokers carry a higher risk of having their dental implant procedure fail. Smokers risk post-operative infection and significant jawbone loss.

Allergic Reaction

Dental implants are made out of titanium alloy that contain some traces of nickel. There are a few rare patients who happen to be allergic to titanium. If you have concerns about an allergic reaction, ask your dentist about the MELISA test. This is the only scientifically proven method able to determine whether or not you have an allergy to titanium. The MELISA test can also show your dentist how severe the allergy is (if any).

Dental Implants Supporting Dentures

A few benefits to having your dentures implanted are:

Saving Your Jaw and Gumline:
With the daily use of removable dentures, over time, the jawbone weakens due to the persistent pressures of chewing. Another factor in jaw deterioration is the lack of a tooth root to support the jaw height, width, and density. Loss of bone density will require a bone graft to support the dental implants.

Durability
The beauty of implanted dentures is that they do not restrict your diet! You will be able to chew food in comfort and eat the foods you truly enjoy with peace of mind.

Stability and Security:
Implant-supported dentures allow you to enjoy your meals without having to stress the embarrassment of having your dentures fall out while you eat. You can have a nice night out on the town feeling confident and secure about your teeth.

No Dental Adhesive Expense
Having your dentures implanted gives you the added bonus of eliminating the hassle of dealing with the uncomfortable taste and cleaning process that arises with use of dental adhesives. Your wallet will be happy skipping the adhesive expense. But like any surgical procedure, there are a few risks to consider. While dental implant surgery complications are not common, there have been complications reported from approximately less than 5% of patients who had dental implant surgery. However, you can trust that this procedure is still very safe and effective. It is recommended you speak to your dentist about the risk associated to your specific situation.

The Costs of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants depends on the type, position, and quality or amount of jawbone where the implant is placed. While the cost of dental implants differ, prices can range from $1000 to $3000 per implant. Most dental insurance plans consider the procedure cosmetic and do not cover costs. Speak to your dentist or contact your insurance provider to be certain cost of implants is covered.

We welcome you to call Paradise Dental Practice at 949-481-2121 to learn more about dental implants in San Juan Capistrano, California, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Mojgan Niktash.