One of the best ways to replace a missing tooth is with a dental implant. Dr. Vazira can perform single or multiple implants. Many patients opt for this treatment because they rather have a permanent solution. Even when multiple implants are required, they usually perform and last longer than dentures or dental bridges. The reason lies in that dental implants are solidly rooted in the jaw bone and are eventually integrated into the bone.
What Are Dental Implants
A dental implant is a screw-like metal prosthesis meant to replace the lost root of a missing tooth. They are artificial teeth that closely resemble natural teeth. Most implants are made of ceramics and rest on a titanium base, which serves as the root. They are incredibly durable.
Dr. Vazira has patients that have maintained implants for multiple years. Usually, they are tightened or adjusted upon need.
What advantages do Dental Implants offer?
- Durability and life-long replacement of teeth
- Very comfortable and natural feel
- Prevention of bone loss
- Promotes bone formation
- Easier eating and speech capabilities
- Easy to maintain dental hygiene
- Do not cause damage to adjacent teeth
- Restore self-esteem
Indications for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a perfect option for those trying to replace multiple or even all of their teeth. Here’s how Dr. Vazira can make it happen.
Missing Single Tooth
Single teeth are replaced by opening gum tissue, placing the implant into the jaw and closing the tissue. Finally we allow three to six months for the implant to heal and integrate with the bone. Once completed, Dr. Vazira will place an implant-retained crown on top to complete your smile.
Missing Multiple Teeth
Multiple missing teeth can be replaced with a partial dental bridge. However, this dental bridge does not make use of your neighboring teeth to anchor it in place. On the contrary, the restoration is perfectly fitted with dental implants on either side with the center tooth (or teeth) acting as a bridge between the implant-retained crowns.
Missing All Teeth
By using four to six dental implants, we can customize a partial or full denture to create a better-fitting prosthetic for your new perfect smile. An implant retained denture prevents the need for changing your traditional denture out every several years or the need for denture adhesives to keep your denture in place. A win win!
The Implant Restoration Process
While there is some variation in procedure, the following outlines the basic steps required for dental implant placement.
The first portion of the procedure is done at your specialist’s office. The gum covering the area is gently folded back and the underlying bone prepared to receive the implant. The extent of the bone preparation is dependent on the number of implants required. The implant(s) are then placed, and the gum sutured. The implant should fully integrate into the bone after 3 to 6 months.
At this point, a custom-designed crown is fitted over the post. The details of the procedure change slightly with the structure of the implant used.
If you are considering a more permanent solution to a missing tooth (or teeth), give us a call at (818) 842-4746 or contact us via our online form.
