Dental implants allow individuals who are missing teeth to fill in any gaps and offer the world a smile that shines. At Dentist of Long Beach, we are here to answer your most pressing questions concerning dental implants!
While dental implants serve a cosmetic function, their main purpose is to restore an individual’s missing tooth with one that closely resembles their natural teeth. Dental implants help prevent a cascade of oral health issues, including shifting, strain, bone loss, and an unbalanced bite.
Dental implants from Dentist of Long Beach consist of three primary parts (an implant post, abutment, and prosthesis) that work together to restore patients’ missing teeth.
The implant post takes the place of the missing tooth’s root. Our cosmetic dentist or oral surgeon in Long Beach will insert the post into the jawbone. Since the implant post is often constructed of titanium, it will begin the process of osseointegration (the fusion of the post with the jawbone).
Implant posts come in different sizes to mirror the size of the tooth being replaced. For example, a post that is smaller usually accompanies front teeth, whereas a larger post tends to be used for molars.
There is more than one kind of implant prosthesis used, and this will determine the number of implant posts you need. For example, if you are receiving a single implant, you will only need one post. On the other hand, bridges will need a minimum of two posts, and complete dentures will require between four to six implant posts for each arch.
An abutment attaches to the implant and connects it to the dental prosthesis, or substitute tooth. There are healing abutments and permanent ones, and depending on your unique situation, the abutment may be placed at the same time you receive your implant post.
Similar to implant posts, abutments are available in different sizes and shapes. Whereas an implant with a single crown might have a shorter and thicker abutment that resembles a screw, abutments for implant-supported dentures feature a unique attachment that the denture can easily latch onto.
A dental prosthesis refers to the substitute tooth and is what is visible to others. There are multiple kinds of dental prosthetics, including crowns, dentures, and bridges. These may be constructed using stainless steel, various alloys, porcelain, resin, acrylic, and more.
Some patients may be missing a lot of bone. However, bone grafting can help remedy this problem by introducing a fresh piece of bone where it is needed most. If there is not adequate room for the bone graft, a sinus augmentation may be performed in which the membrane enveloping the sinus cavity is lifted. Alternatively, a zygomatic implant fixture may be utilized, which is a variation of a traditional implant post that also penetrates the cheekbones.
If missing teeth are not replaced with dental implants, shifting occurs and causes problems like an imbalanced bite, cracked or fractured teeth, and pain and sensitivity. If enough pressure is put on the jaw joints, the patient may develop TMJ.
There are several steps involved in the dental implant process, and several appointments will likely be needed. Below is a list of the different steps that may be involved in your dental implant process at Dentist of Long Beach:
The healing process varies and depends on if a bone graft or sinus augmentation was performed. However, on average, the bone and gum tissue usually heal between six to eight months’ time.
The full cost of dental implants from Dentist of Long Beach in California depends on several factors, such as your unique treatment plan and dental insurance. Importantly, we make sure patients have access to affordable dental care through our easy payment and financing options, so give our office a call today!
Restore Your Smile Today With Dental Implants!
Our cosmetic dentist at Dentist of Long Beach will be able to help you decide if dental implants are right for you, so schedule your consultation appointment today by calling (562) 373-0026!
