At California Innovative Solutions, our goal is to help our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. That, hopefully, means they are able to keep all of their natural teeth. However, tooth loss still occurs. In the past, there wasn’t a solution that imitated the natural tooth. Today, dental implants are the most highly recommended tooth replacement option. 

A dental implant is a small, screw-like rod that replaces the missing tooth root. This is what sets these restorations apart from dental bridges and dentures. Once the implant has successfully joined with the jawbone, a dental crown is placed on top of it to complete the restoration. 

Dr. Mina Levi offers dental implants for patients missing one, several, or all of their teeth. Contact our team today to learn about your tooth replacement options. To learn more about dental implants, continue reading. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING THE TOOTH ROOT REPLACED? 

Tooth roots and the jawbone go through a process called osseointegration. The tooth root stimulates the jawbone, so the jawbone grows around it; integrating the two together. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate. This can lead to the movement of the neighboring teeth, loose teeth, and more tooth loss. You may also experience facial sagging as the jawbone deteriorates. 

When we replace the missing tooth with an implant, the jawbone and implant begin the osseointegration process. It’s like you never lost a tooth in the first place! 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE IMPLANT SITE TO HEAL? 

Once your implant has been placed, osseointegration and healing can take up to six months. During this time, a temporary crown might be placed on top of the implant. It is especially important to take care of the implant site by properly cleaning it, eating soft foods, and visiting the dentist regularly. This healing period will determine the success and longevity of the implant. 

WILL MY DENTAL IMPLANT NEED TO BE REPLACED? 

When taken proper care of, dental implants are expected to last more than 25 years. In most cases, the implant never needs to be replaced. Once the implant has healed and the crown has been placed, you can resume your regular oral hygiene routine, eat whatever you want, and enjoy all the benefits that dental implants have to offer. 

WHAT IF I HAVE MORE THAN ONE MISSING TOOTH? 

Another great thing about dental implants is that they are extremely versatile. So, if you have a few missing teeth in a row, two implants can be placed on the outer teeth and a bridge or partial denture can be attached. If you have an entire arch of missing teeth, four to six implants can be placed and attached to a full denture. 

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS? 

To qualify for dental implants, you must have sufficient jawbone, good oral health, and be committed to the process. The best way to determine if dental implants are the best option for your smile is to visit with our San Francisco dental implant dentist. Call our office today at (415) 513-5066 or contact us online to schedule your initial consultation.