Do I Need Dental Implants?
August 21, 2019 | Dental Implants | The Office of Palisades Dentists
Large gaps between the teeth can cause many patients embarrassment. Feeling dissatisfied with your teeth can lead to a refusal to smile or show your teeth. Furthermore, these dental concerns can lead to discomfort while chewing and other tooth issues.
Fortunately, dental implants and specialty services can address these problems and restore a beautiful smile by utilizing advanced technology and 3D imaging. If you are bothered by lost teeth or gaps in your mouth, then dental implants can significantly improve your bite.
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What Are Dental Implants?
Whether you are missing one or all of your teeth, dental implants are an ideal alternative to dentures for replacing them. As an effective and versatile solution, dental implants have become highly popular in recent years.
Dental implants begin with surgical posts that are inserted into the roots in your jaw below your gum line to provide a foundation for your replacement teeth to anchor into. Dentures are removable, while dental implants are permanent fixtures that adhere to your natural tissue.
How Are They Installed?
With the advancement in X-ray technology and computers, it is no wonder why dental implants have gained traction. Dr. Cerisa Moncayo has invested in navigational tools to allow precision in the dental implant placement process. Not only can the jaw be visualized virtually, but the X-Guide system used is the newest and most advanced technology available for accurate dental implant placement.
Are There Different Materials?
Two primary materials are available, with pros and cons to each option.
Zirconia
Depsite being marketed as a metal-free option, Zirconia is the crystal form of the transitional metal Zirconium. Because it consists of ceramic crystal, patients may not need to worry about metal allergies with this option. Zirconia appears very similar to teeth, so it is an aesthetically pleasing match to the rest of the mouth. Many patients select this option for the appearance.
Titanium
Titanium has been used in the medical industry for decades and decades– this material fuses well with human bone and is strong, lightweight, and long-lasting. This durable material is often the more popular choice due to its durability, and studies have shown it to have a success rate of 98% and higher.
How Long Does the Recovery Take?
At our Pacific Palisades office, we try to use each patient’s own stem cells to aid in healing as much as we can. Leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) is used to optimize healing and promote recuperation.
We start by taking a sample of the patient’s blood and using the IntraSpin™ system to separate and concentrate stem cells and active proteins. Once applied to the patient’s surgical sites, the natural healing proteins are released and recovery is accelerated.
Most patients take between five and six days to recover. It takes time for the implant to bond and fuse to the jawbone, then a connector piece (abutment) is attached to secure the new tooth. A normal diet can be resumed after the first week while avoiding crunchy or hard foods (popcorn, nuts, chips, etc.)
Which Option Is Best for Me?
Both zirconia and titanium offer pros and are biocompatible (they integrate well with human mouth tissue). Your condition and preferences will determine which selection will be best for your smile.
Our team is devoted to high-quality care in a family-friendly atmosphere. Reach out today to learn more about dental implants by calling 310-459-2303, or you can fill out our online contact form.