Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that provide a natural-looking and stable foundation for permanent crowns. Implants are typically made of titanium, which is biocompatible and doesn’t cause reactions in the body. You won’t need to worry about them moving while you eat or speak, and you won’t have to take them off every night before bed like traditional dentures. 

Single Tooth Implants

Dental implants are a fixture of synthetic teeth affixed to the implant post to replace one or more missing teeth. Because the prosthetic teeth are permanently fixed to the implant root, they function just like your natural teeth. 

The crown of the dental implant is custom-made to look just like your other teeth. Since the implant is anchored in the jaw bone, it’s incredibly strong and can remain in place for a lifetime with proper care. You should care for your new smile just like you care for your natural teeth, including daily brushing and flossing and regular checkups and cleanings.

The Dental Implant Procedure

To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Gonzalez will perform an exam and take X-rays to create a treatment plan customized to your needs. We will take a CT scan to evaluate your bone level. An inadequate bone level can be overcome with a variety of graft options. Once the implants are in place, they will lock in the bone through a process called osseointegration, where the bone forms around the implant.

You may need to take some medications or over-the-counter painkillers to manage the discomfort after the surgery. It’s also common to have some bruising and minor swelling as well. Dr. Gonzalez may recommend a soft diet for the first few days following treatment.

After a healing period of 4-6 months, the implant can be used to place a crown, a permanent bridge, or be used to stabilize a denture.