For people who are missing one or more of their natural teeth, dental implants represent the strongest, sturdiest, most reliable method of tooth replacementavailable today. They also represent the most versatile method, as they can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or even every tooth in the mouth. Once in place, dental implant restorations allow patients to bite, chew, speak, and smile with absolute assurance once again.
At SoCal Smiles Dentistry in Rancho Santa Margarita, dental implant restorations of the most surpassing standard are available to our valued patients. Whether you are missing a single tooth or all of your teeth, we can give you the complete, healthy smile you deserve. We invite you to find out whether dental implant restorations are the best option for you by meeting with esteemed family dentist Scott Karafin for a confidential consultation at his office today.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are threaded like screws. Although small, they are remarkably strong. The posts are surgically placed into the jaw, where they integrate with the bone; because the human body does not identify titanium as a foreign substance, the implants essentially become part of the patient’s natural anatomy. If there is not sufficient bone density to support the implants – the jawbone begins to degrade once teeth are lost – then a bone grafting procedure can be performed prior to dental implant surgery.
After the implants have fused with the jawbone, custom-crafted restorations can be attached via abutments. Unlike conventional bridges, implant-supported bridges do not rely on surrounding healthy teeth for support, and implant-supported dentures do not slip or shift out of place as traditional dentures often do.
Which types of restorations can be supported by dental implants?
Dental implants can be used to support several types of restorations:
- Crowns: When patients are missing only one tooth, a tooth on each arch, or a few non-consecutive teeth, then crowns can be attached to single dental implants to replace them. Crowns are crafted from the finest ceramic materials to blend seamlessly into patients’ smiles, complementing surrounding natural teeth in terms of their size, shape, color, and even texture.
- Bridges: For patients who are missing two or three consecutive teeth on an arch, implant-supported dentures can fill the gap without relying on natural teeth for support, unlike traditional fixed dental bridges. Like dental crowns, bridges are customized to look completely natural and restore full function to the mouth.
- Dentures: Dental implants can be used to replace all of the teeth on the upper or lower arches or both. Implant-supported dentures are a superb option for patients who are missing most or all of their natural teeth; they eliminate the problems associated with conventional removable dentures, such as slippage, shifting, poor fits, and difficulties with speech and eating.
Learn More about Dental Implant Restoration Options
If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth and you would like to learn more about dental implant restoration options, we invite you to contact SoCal Smiles Dentistry and schedule a consultation today.