Dental Implants

Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system.

Implants are so well-designed, they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of titanium.

In general, good candidates who have dental implants can expect high success rates with the procedure.

The procedure can take several visits. During the first visit, an anchor is placed into the jawbone and the site is allowed to heal for several weeks or months. This gives your tissue time to grow around the anchor to more firmly hold it in place.

During a follow-up visit, an artificial, natural-looking tooth is fitted over the implanted anchor.

Types of implants

Various types of implants include full upper and lower, anterior, posterior, and single-tooth:

Full upper replacements

The upper set of teeth is replaced with implants. Procedure steps include:

 

  • Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
  • A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
  • The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
  • Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

In some cases, full upper replacements can be removed.

Anterior replacement

Implants are used to replace the front teeth (also called incisors and cuspids). Procedure steps include:

 

  • Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
  • A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
  • The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
  • Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.


Full lower replacement

The lower set of teeth is replaced with implants. Full lower replacement usually only uses four to six implants (near the front), which are used to anchor a denture. This obviates the need for denture adhesive.


Posterior replacement

Implants are used to replace the bicuspids and molars (the back teeth). Procedure steps include:

 

  • Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
  • A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
  • The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
  • Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

Single tooth replacement

Procedure steps include:

 

  • Missing tooth root is replaced with an implant, which remains covered under the gum line.
  • A healing period of up to six months allows the implant to take.
  • The implant is uncovered and an extension attached.
  • Replacement tooth is affixed to the implant and extension.

Dental Implants In San Jose, CA

Dental implants are designed to permanently replace one or more missing teeth. There are many advantages to dental implants when compared with other conventional methods of tooth replacement, like bridges or removable appliances. To discover what dental implants can do for you, it’s time to call Dr. Okada of Lorna L. Okada, D.D.S in San Jose, CA.

Dental implants are made of titanium, a uniquely biocompatible material that allows the bone in your jaw to fuse with the implant, locking it in place. Your Lawrenceville dentist will surgically insert the implant screw in place of your missing tooth. Over time, your bone fuses to it, and the screw will then function as the “root” of your missing tooth. After the implant site has healed, Dr. Okada will place a crown on top of the implant. At the end of the implant process, you will have a secure, permanent addition to your smile.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, and they don’t decay or stain. In most cases, dental implants are a much better choice for tooth replacement. Dr. Okada wants you to know they offer benefits that can’t be matched by conventional methods. Consider:

  • Dental implants are the most natural-looking tooth replacement because they are virtually indistinguishable from your existing teeth.
  • Dental implants are a conservative treatment that doesn’t require preparation of the adjacent teeth, the way bridges do.
  • Dental implants are convenient because you won’t have to take them out to clean them. You can clean them just like your natural teeth.
  • Dental implants are secure and stable because they are embedded in bone, and become a permanent part of your smile.

Dental implants can also help you look younger because your body creates more bone to support the implant, restoring your firm jawline and youthful facial contours. Partials and dentures can actually make you lose bone over time, causing your jawbone to diminish and your face to sag.

Dental Services

Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement, allowing you to have a full, natural, and permanent smile. If you are considering dental implants, call Dr. Okada of Lorna L. Okada, D.D.S., Inc in San Jose, CA at 408.226.2522. Call today and find out more!