Missing a Tooth? Dental Implants Can Help

The simple act of biting into a crisp apple or confidently smiling during a job interview can become unexpectedly challenging when you're missing a tooth. This seemingly minor dental issue affects a surprisingly large number of people — over 178 million, according to the American College of Prosthodontists. 

The consequences of missing teeth significantly impact daily life, affecting eating habits, self-confidence, and overall oral health. Missing teeth make it difficult to chew food correctly, and they can also cause speech impediments, affect facial structure, and cause adjacent teeth to shift or tilt. This leads to bite problems and an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

While traditional tooth replacement options like dental bridges and dentures have been available for many years, they have limitations and can be uncomfortable and fragile. Nowadays, dental implants are hailed as the gold standard for tooth replacement, as they offer a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. 

Read on to learn how dental implants work, what to expect if you decide to get them, and where to find the best dentist in Santa Monica for natural-looking, long-lasting dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that serve as the foundation for permanent replacement teeth. They are small, sturdy titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. The implants fuse with the bone tissue through a process called osseointegration and create a stable base for attaching replacement teeth. A single dental implant can support one or more replacement teeth. 

Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of your gums, implants become a permanent part of your jaw structure. This prevents the bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence. 

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are the best choice for tooth replacement because they offer benefits that go far beyond filling a gap in your smile. Unlike removable dentures or dental bridges, implants provide a permanent solution that truly mimics natural teeth. Additionally, they're designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth in both appearance and function, allowing you to smile, laugh, and eat with complete confidence. 

The stability of implants means you won't have to worry about slipping dentures or food restrictions. You can enjoy everything from corn on the cob to crunchy apples without hesitation. Another amazing benefit of dental implants is their role in preserving your oral health: They actively prevent bone loss in your jaw, helping maintain your facial structure and natural appearance. 

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Wondering if dental implants are right for you? You’ll be happy to know that most people who are missing one or more teeth are great candidates for dental implants. The main requirements are having healthy gums and adequate bone in your jaw to hold the implant securely. Even if you’ve already suffered from some bone loss, bone grafting procedures can often build up the necessary foundation for successful implants. 

The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with a restorative dentist, who will evaluate your oral health, medical history, and lifestyle factors to create a personalized treatment plan. These experts in dental implants use advanced dental imaging technology, such as 3D dental X-rays, to assess your bone structure and determine if any preliminary procedures are needed before implant placement.

What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Involve?

The dental implant procedure includes five well-planned stages to ensure the best possible outcome:

1. It begins with a thorough consultation where your dentist examines your oral health and creates detailed 3D images of your jaw to develop your personalized treatment plan. 
2. During the first surgical step, the implant — a small titanium post — is surgically placed into your jawbone. Local anesthesia and sedation dentistry are often used to keep you comfortable during this process. 
3. Then, there is a crucial healing period where the implant fuses with your jawbone. This typically takes three to six months. During this time, you’ll have temporary dental crowns. 
4. Once healing is complete, your dentist attaches a small connector piece called an abutment to the implant. 
5. The final step involves placing a custom-made crown that is carefully crafted to match your natural teeth in color and shape. 

While this process requires patience, each step is essential for creating a replacement tooth that's both functional and natural-looking.

How Do I Care for My Dental Implants? 

Caring for dental implants is similar to maintaining your natural teeth and is also the key to the long-term success of your implants. Establishing a consistent daily oral hygiene routine is important. This routine should include: 

• Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to all sides of the implant crown
• Flossing daily using implant-specific floss or floss threaders to remove plaque and prevent gum disease
• Attending regular dental check-ups every six months for professional teeth cleanings and to ensure your implant is functioning properly

Additionally, you should remember that while implants are strong, they're not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard items like ice or hard candy, which could damage the crown. With proper care and attention, your dental implant can last for decades.

Finding the Best Dentist in Santa Monica for Dental Implants

Experience and expertise matter when choosing the best dental implant dentist in Santa Monica. With two decades of specialized experience in implant dentistry, Dr. Ellie Farahmand combines technical excellence with a genuinely compassionate approach to patient care. Her practice features state-of-the-art technology in a premium, spa-like environment designed to put patients at ease. 

Dr. Farahmand and her team are committed to taking the time to understand each patient's unique needs, thoroughly explain every step of the implant process, and remain accessible for questions throughout every treatment. 

Whether you're considering traditional or mini dental implants, Santa Monica Dental Office offers a modern, high-end facility and a comprehensive focus on patient comfort to ensure the highest standard of care. 

Ready to trust your smile with the best dental implant dentist in Santa Monica with a proven track record and dedication to creating natural-looking, long-lasting results?