What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in your jaw and one of the most technologically advanced methods for replacing missing teeth.
They’re composed of biocompatible materials, like titanium, so your body treats them as a natural part of your mouth. That means that the bone tissue in your jaw fuses with your implants as you heal from the procedure.
Just like a natural tooth root, a fused implant provides an excellent support structure for a restoration, like a crown, bridge, or dentures.
Whether you need to replace one missing tooth with a single implant or an entire dental arch with multiple implants, Dr. Sakurai can help. She might also recommend dental implants as part of a full mouth reconstruction, or smile makeover.
How can dental implants improve my smile?
There are several ways dental implants can improve your smile, like:
- Filling in gaps left by missing teeth
- Preventing your teeth from shifting
- Evenly distributing the force in your bite
- Improving your eating and speaking ability
- Maintaining the structure and appearance of your facial tissues
If you have dentures or a bridge, Dr. Sakurai can also use dental implants to support your restoration. Implant-supported dentures and bridges are more secure and feel more natural, giving you increased confidence and comfort.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants are one of the most advanced systems for replacing missing teeth and have many advantages over traditional tooth-replacement solutions, like bridges and dentures.
When you replace a tooth with a bridge, for example, you need to remove enamel from the adjacent teeth. Because dental implants attach to your jawbone, there’s no need to alter your existing tooth structures to replace your tooth.
Bridges and dentures also rest on top of your gums, which deprives the underlying jawbone of necessary stimulation. Dental implants, on the other hand, stimulate your bone tissue just like a natural tooth does, helping your jawbone stay strong and healthy.
What happens when I get dental implants?
Replacing your teeth with dental implants begins with a consultation at Pacific View Smile Center. Dr. Sakurai first assesses your oral health to determine if you’re a viable candidate for dental implants.
If you have any signs of gum disease, she might recommend periodontal treatments before you get your implants. You also need to have substantial bone tissue in your jaw for implants to work properly, so if your jawbone is lacking, she might recommend a bone graft.
Once she’s determined that your mouth is healthy enough for implants, she can schedule your dental implant procedure. Depending on the type of implants, you might need a few appointments spread out over a few months.
Generally, Dr. Sakurai makes an incision in your jaw, drills a hole in your jawbone, and inserts the implant into that hole. After you fully recover, she attaches an abutment to the implant and then connects your restoration to the abutment.
Schedule a visit by phone or online and get started on your dental implants today.
