Dental implants are small metal posts designed to replace missing teeth. The implants themselves are small and discreet, but they provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth that look and perform like natural teeth. There are many benefits to choosing implants over traditional restorations. They require no alteration of the healthy teeth neighboring the implant post, and they fuse with the jawbone to become a permanent part of the mouth. This fusion creates a secure anchor for replacement teeth while preserving the shape of the face and preventing the sunken-in appearance of other restorations.
Dental Implants Procedure
The implant process typically takes several months from start to finish. First, we will evaluate your mouth to determine if dental implants are the best solution for you. Once you are a candidate, we will place the implant post in your jawbone. We then allow time for the bone to grow around the and anchor the post in place, creating a strong base for a dental crown. Once the implant is secure, we’ll design your custom-made crown for attaching to the post, restoring the form and function of your tooth. The entire procedure is completed over the course of a few months and can usually be performed without sedation. Once the implant has healed and integrated with your jawbone, you can treat it like a normal tooth by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist in San Mateo regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Dental implants are a popular option to replace multiple missing teeth because they are versatile enough to support a variety of restorations. In addition to traditional bridges, some patients choose implant-supported dentures for ultimate comfort and stability. These prosthetics can be secured to the jaw with as few as four or six implants and offer unmatched benefits compared to more traditional tooth replacement methods. Patients can bite and chew more naturally and speak more clearly when wearing these prosthetics when compared to traditional dentures.
Additionally, the denture itself is held in place by dental implants, so patients do not have to worry about their false teeth slipping out of place while they’re speaking or taking a bite of food. However, the exact benefits of dental implant-supported dentures vary from patient to patient based on their needs and lifestyle.
How Long do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are permanent, but they have the potential to last a lifetime if properly cared for and maintained. This means you’ll need to brush and floss your implant just like your other teeth to keep them clean and healthy. Although implants cannot cause cavities, it is still possible to damage them if you bite down on something too hard or grind your teeth at night. Your dentist can help you determine if you’re at risk for either of these problems. If so, you may need to wear a mouthguard when you sleep to protect your dental implants from harm.
How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implants?
Caring for your implants isn’t much different than caring for the rest of your smile. The same daily oral hygiene practices you perform with natural teeth also apply to your implant-supported restorations, including brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Your dentist may recommend using special tools to clean around your new teeth as well, such as a water flosser or an interdental cleaner.
Periodic checkups are also crucial to keeping your new smile healthy. During these visits, your dentist can complete a professional cleaning and examine your mouth for signs of oral health concerns like cavities. With proper care, your dental implant should last for decades or even a lifetime.
To learn more about our dental services, book an appointment with our dentist in San Mateo, CA, by calling us at (650) 342-9055. You can also visit us at 255 N San Mateo Dr Suite 3, San Mateo, CA 94401. We will be happy to answer any questions you have.
