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Dental implants are transforming people's lives by providing them with a non-removable prosthesis that functions like their natural teeth. The ability of dental implants to replace their missing teeth with durable, strong, and natural-looking substitutes has been improving the patients' lives beyond measure.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are dental appliances used to replace missing teeth or function as a support for dentures. Dental implants consist of a titanium metal post surgically fixed into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial root. In implant-supported bridges and dentures, the titanium post acts as an anchor to hold the denture or bridge in its position. 

What is the procedure involved?

Dental Implant isn't a one size fits all procedure. A professional dental team proficient in restorative dentistry and oral surgery prepares a treatment plan personalized to address your specific condition and chooses the implant option best suited to you.

We will place dental implants either immediately after the tooth extraction or some weeks later. If we find that the jaw bone of the patient is not dense or strong to accept an implant, we will recommend a bone grafting procedure to strengthen the area. After the bone grafting procedure, it needs a couple of months for the bone grafting to heal before the implant surgery. 

Once anesthesia is administered, the implant is carefully inserted into the jawbone. It slowly fuses with the bone over a period of few months, and the enclosing soft tissue will cover the implant. 

Once the healing of the gums is completed and the implant has fused to the bone, we will fix an abutment on the implant, connecting it to a crown. 

Am I eligible for dental implants?

While most people qualify for dental implants, there are a few prerequisites. 

• Patient's health is a determining factor
• The bone quality and quantity in the desired location must be able to withstand the installation of the implant
• Heavy smokers, patients with heart diseases, and those who have previously had any kind of surgery or radiation therapy near the head/neck area need to evaluate their condition with their dentist.

The benefits of dental implants

• Restore your oral health:Unlike bridges, a dental implant doesn't affect the neighboring teeth since they don't have to be altered or reduced. 
• Speak and chew naturally: Since the crown feels and functions like real teeth and the implant is housed securely, your speech and bite remain unaffected.  
• Improves your appearance and confidence: When your implant looks and feels like the real deal, it helps you feel confident and looks good, which positively impacts your mental health. 
• Comfortable and long lasting:Since it's fused to the bone, it's permanent and will last long with a good oral care routine. Implants have a natural fit and feel and are quite comfortable, unlike dentures.

Want to know more about dental implants? Call Stevens Creek Family Dentistry at  (408) 261-8882 or schedule an appointment online.