Dental Implants


 

Did you know that dental implants are frequently the best treatment option for replacing missing teeth? Rather than resting on the gum line like removable dentures, or sacrificing adjacent teeth to be used as anchors like fixed bridges, dental implants are long-term replacements that your oral & maxillofacial surgeon surgically places in the jaw bone. Dental implants are the most natural, stable and permanent option for replacing missing teeth.  More and more people are getting dental implants to replace missing teeth. They’re a long-term solution that is imbedded in your jawbone, just like your natural teeth. They even go your natural teeth one better, since they can’t develop cavities.

Plus, unlike fixed bridges or removable dentures, dental implants will not affect neighboring healthy teeth or lead to bone loss in the jaw. If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Dental implant surgery is, of course, surgery, and is best done by a trained surgeon. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) has the specialized education and training in the complexities of the bone, skin, muscles and nerves involved to ensure you get the best possible results. A 2014 study suggests greater implant success rates when performed by a dental specialist.​

Implants are made of titanium metal that “fuses” with the jawbone through a process called “osseointegration.” There’s no short cut to get around that process, and it usually takes several months once the implant is put into your jawbone. Osseointegration, however, is why implants never slip or make embarrassing noises like dentures, and why bone loss is usually not a problem.
After more than 20 years of service, the vast majority of dental implants first placed by oral and facial surgeons in the United States continue to function at peak performance. More importantly, the recipients of those early dental implants are still satisfied they made the right choice

Replacement of a Single Tooth

Dental implants are now the “standard of care” for replacing a single tooth.  In the past, the two adjacent teeth would have to be cut down in order to place a bridge, which often have to be replaced every 5-15 years.  With a dental implant, these teeth are preserved.  

Replacement of Multiple Missing Teeth

Dental implants can also be used to restore a long span of missing teeth. Typically in the past a long bridge or a denture would be made to replaced the affected area. With dental implants, this can be done predicatively without affecting the adjacent teeth and the patient does not have to take a partial denture in and out of the mouth daily. 

Removable Implant Supported Dentures

If the fit of your conventional dentures is a concern, removable implant-supported dentures can be a beneficial option. Removable implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implants, but can be removed daily for cleaning. The implants act as anchors for the retentive components attached to the denture, which allow the patient to remove and re-attach the denture.

Full Arch Restoration

The All-on-4® (Teeth in a Day) procedure was pioneered in the early 1990s to provide new, fixed teeth to individuals missing teeth due to advanced gum disease. This groundbreaking technique quickly surpassed other dental implant options because the patient could have fully functional implants in one office visit. The “Teeth in a Day” procedure bypasses the need for major bone grafting and multiple surgeries.

At your initial consultation, Dr. Rahn and Dr. Curiel will evaluate your dental implant option and provide a unique treatment plan for your specific needs. Our oral surgeons have been specially trained and are highly skilled in implementing the All-on-4 procedure.

Having All-on-4 (Teeth in a Day) implants means you can improve appearance and functionality in one procedure, without having to risk sacrificing one or the other. By caring for these dental implants properly, you can help ensure that they last a lifetime.

Benefits of the All-on-4 procedure include:

  • A beautiful smile supported by dental implants
  • A full set of implant-supported teeth, typically done in one office visit
  • The look and feel of natural teeth
  • Preserved and stimulated natural jaw bone, preventing bone loss
  • Comfort and stability, allowing you to eat your favorite foods once again
  • Allowing your teeth to stay healthy, by removing unnatural pressure
  • Looking and feeling years younger due to ending bone loss

Because of the complexity and permanent solution that All-on-4 (Teeth in a Day) offers, it’s important that you seek out the right oral surgeon that fully understands your unique situation. Dr. Rahn and Dr. Curiel are specialists that provide the highest level of care, in a comfortable, compassionate environment.

Office Phone: (559) 435-7993