What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants allow you to replace the root and crown of a tooth using dental prosthetics. During the first phase of treatment, a titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone. The biocompatible post replaces the tooth’s root, creating sturdy foundation for the replacement crown. After your jawbone has fused to the implant post, an abutment is attached to the post. The abutment ensures the gum heals correctly while also allowing the final restoration to be placed. During the restoration phase, a custom-made crown is attached to the abutment, giving you a complete smile to maintain oral health and functions.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

The benefits of dental implants far exceed any of the benefits offered by other forms of tooth replacement. In addition to a lifelong solution, you will regain almost all of your oral functions. Not to mention, you will promote your oral health as dental implants stop the progression of bone loss from missing teeth. As a result, your remaining natural teeth are not subject to shifting, decay, or additional tooth loss. All in all, dental implants are the best option to permanently replace missing teeth.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

When performed on the ideal candidate, the success rate for dental implants is over 95 percent. To benefit from dental implants, you must have healthy gums and adequate bone density to support the dental implant. You will need to undergo an extensive consultation to ensure there are no medical or lifestyle factors that raise your risk for infection or implant failure.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Due to the advancements in dental implants over the last several years, dental implants are made to last a lifetime with the right care. The biggest risk for implant failure lies with infection. As a result, you will need to practice proper oral hygiene and maintain regular appointments with Dr. McElroy to decrease your risk for failure. While the implant post will essentially last forever, the prosthetic crown can become damaged. As a result, it may have to be replaced in the future.

Your Dentist for Dental Implants

Dr. McElroy will help you treat your tooth loss with dental implants. However, if dental implants are not right for you, there are a number of other options that can be used. Depending on your degree of tooth loss, you may benefit from dentures, partial dentures, or crowns and bridges. To determine which option is best for you, contact Dr. McElroy’s office today.

Encinitas Dentist for Teeth Cleanings, Pain-Free Dental Care, Gum Treatment, Dentures, Dental Implants, Invisalign, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, & More – Serving Encinitas, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido & San Diego, CA