Dental implants are an excellent solution for patients who are living with one or multiple compromised or missing teeth. Because they replace both your tooth and root, they not only restore your smile, but they also protect your oral health. Since implants can restore multiple teeth, at times the procedure can be more complex. Your dentist in Scripps Ranch explains everything you need to know about dental implants.
How Dental Implants Work
An implant is surgically placed into your jawbone to take the place of your missing root. Because implants are made of biocompatible titanium, they naturally integrate with your jawbone over time to create a firm foundation for your restoration.
When replacing one tooth, a porcelain crown attaches to the implant with an abutment. The crown is designed to closely mimic your natural tooth, which gives you full function and aesthetics.
When replacing multiple teeth, a few dental implants in San Diego will be strategically placed so they can support prosthetics such as a dental bridge, denture, or partial. For example, a denture can be designed to “snap” into four implants spaced along your arch.
Additional Dental Implant Procedures
Dental implants require enough healthy jawbone structure to properly support them. If patients lack this bone, a procedure called a bone graft can be done to build up their arch. A bone graft utilizes either natural or synthetic bone material that is placed onto the existing bone. The two integrate over time creating an arch that can support one or multiple implants as needed.
In some cases, a bone graft may also require a sinus augmentation, or sinus lift to create space for the new bone structure. This procedure essentially raises, or moves the sinus membrane upward, which creates the additional space needed for bone grafting.
These procedures make dental implants in Scripps Ranch accessible to practically every patient. So, if you are living with compromised or missing teeth, and you’ve been told in the past that you’re not a candidate for dental implants, it’s time to give your dentist a call.
Contact your dentist to schedule a consultation to learn more about your options for dental implants.
About Mod Squad Dental
Dr. Greg Friedman and his associate Dr. Kory Grahl are passionate about providing a dental experience that is unlike any you’ve ever had. Besides offering great spa-like amenities, we go beyond this by spending time to truly get to know each patient so we can meet their unique needs. You will find services such as comprehensive implant dentistry at Mod Squad Dental, and patients of all ages are welcome here.
If you would like to learn more about us, we can be reached by calling 858-682-2394 or through our website.
