Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Many adults think dental implants are the next best thing to having natural teeth, and they might be right. When you lose your own teeth due to an illness, a traumatic accident, or tooth decay, it can negatively impact your self-esteem. You might also avoid smiling, or eating foods you used to love. Dental implants help you bite, chew, and smile with confidence. They're sturdy, stable teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

A dental implant is a titanium post that's surgically anchored to your jawbone, beneath the gum line. This is essentially the root of a new tooth. It's similar in shape to an everyday screw. After the post is implanted and your mouth has healed, your dentist will attach the new replacement tooth, or crown, to the metal post permanently. The implants fuse to your jawbone, so they are strong, stable, and don’t shift in your mouth.

These screw-like metal posts can also help crowns, bridges, and dentures stay securely attached to your jaw.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

There are many benefits to dental implants. In addition to feeling, functioning, and looking like natural teeth, dental implants offer the following advantages:

• Are permanent and can last a lifetime
• Offer an economical solution to replacing missing teeth
• Help retain your natural face shape and smile
• Preserve your healthy jawbone
• Help maintain the integrity of surrounding natural teeth
• Help you talk casually and without worry
• Don’t slip out of your mouth
• Are sturdy enough for chewing all types of foods
• Aren't wide open to cavities with an implanted crown
• Deliver reliable, state-of-the-art results for tooth replacement

Who are candidates for dental implants?

If you're missing teeth, you could be a great dental implant candidate. Your jaw needs to be finished growing, and your gums must be healthy. Dental implants are not appropriate for kids, as their mouths have not finished growing. However, implants are an exceptional solution for adults.

You may also be a good candidate for implants if you are ready to replace a bridge or partial dentures, or if you’re tired of having dentures that slip. Women or men in search of a more permanent, long-lasting solution to dental work tend to be great candidates for dental implants. Get all your questions about dental implants answered during a consultation with your dentist. Implant treatment might be right for you.

Ready to take the first step toward a more comfortable, confident smile? Call Murrieta Family Dental Group or schedule an appointment online.