dental implants

Cosmetic dentistry now offers options beyond having a partial denture or a bridge. You are a candidate for dental implants if you have healthy bone and you are missing one or more teeth. If you are missing only one or two teeth, implants can eliminate the need for grinding down adjacent teeth to support conventional bridge. And if you are missing many teeth, implants can eliminate the need for a cumbersome, unaesthetic removable denture. An implant is a titanium cylinder that is placed in the bone (under the tissue) and functions to replace what was once the root of the tooth. After a period of 5-6 months a stress or load can be placed into this implant and then the crown is placed over the abutment. This artificial tooth is now cared for like all the other teeth in your mouth.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants Are:

Advantages: As our life span increases, a permanent dental replacement like implants is increasingly important as we get older. While dentures and removable bridges are usually loose and unstable, implants provide you with dental replacements that are both natural looking and very functional. Implants look much better, and feel better, than traditional removable bridges, and offer the same force for biting as bridges that are fixed in place. Implants will last your lifetime.

Disadvantages: Implants are a major investment and not without risk. The extensive use of implants can cost tens of thousands of dollars to achieve a great result. It is also a very time consuming procedure when having many implants placed. As this procedure is surgery, it is very important to research and find a well credited cosmetic dentist that you are comfortable with. For some people there are varying degrees discomfort or pain, which subsides in a couple of days. As with similar types of surgery, bruising and minor swelling might also develop shortly after the procedure. The crown (false tooth placed on top) will need to be replaced in ten to fifteen years.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are a great way to improve your smile without having to resort to more drastic procedures like bridges or dentures. Implants aren't the answer for everyone, though. The only way to find out if a permanent dental implant is the right choice for you is to consult your dentist. Contact our San Francisco office today to schedule an appointment and we'll see if dental implants can help beautify your smile!