Dental Implants in Ventura
Dental implants can restore the look and feel of your natural teeth if you have lost one or more teeth. Implants are the only tooth restorations available that are permanent and fixed, making them an excellent choice for anyone who wants an alternative to traditional dentures.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the foundation for replacement teeth fabricated by your dentist or a dental lab to mimic the look and function of your missing natural teeth. There are actually three parts to a complete implant restoration.
Dental implants are screws or posts placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth roots. The posts are made of titanium or, occasionally, ceramic. The implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration.
An abutment is a small connective device that attaches a dental restoration to the implant.
The restoration is the crown or fixed denture attached to the implant using the abutment. If you are replacing one or a few teeth, your restoration will most likely be a crown or crowns. However, if you are getting multiple dental implants, your restoration may be a fixed denture designed specifically to attach to your implants permanently. These dentures are not removable and cannot shift, unlike traditional dentures. Other options include an implant retained overdenture that “snaps” onto the implants.
Dental implants restore lost function and dramatically improve the quality of your smile. They also help preserve your jawbone, which can shrink by up to 25% in the first year after losing a tooth or teeth. Dental implants offer several advantages, including eating without worrying about slipping dentures or getting food caught beneath your restorations. Implants are easy to care for and can last a lifetime.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
If you are considering dental implants, an evaluation by either Dr. Fisch, Dr. Mizraji, or Dr. Sastiel is the first step. We carefully evaluate your overall health, take digital images of your mouth, and discuss your dental goals, answering your questions and determining whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Dental implants may be the right choice if you are in good health and have a strong jawbone. Many people can get dental implants and restorations even years after losing their natural teeth but may require bone grafting before getting their implants. Other considerations are whether you smoke or have a blood clotting disorder.
Interested in Restoring Your Smile?
Don’t suffer from missing teeth any longer! Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that can preserve your facial structure and improve your smile.
Dental Implant Process
Getting dental implants typically includes two surgical procedures performed several months apart. During the first surgery, the titanium implants are placed in the jawbone. 3D imaging and surgical guides allow us to precisely place your implants in the ideal locations to maximize stability and healing.
After surgery, the implants will slowly bond with the surrounding bone. This takes three to five months, depending on the patient. At this time, you will wear temporary crowns or dentures and eat a soft diet to protect the surgical sites. Drs. Fisch, Mizraji, and Sastiel use this time to design your permanent restoration.
Once the jawbone and implants have fused, a second procedure uncovers the top of the implants, attaching a healing collar. Using digital imaging and impressions of the mouth, your permanent restorations are crafted and attached to the titanium implants. Although the entire process can take three to six months, there is minimal interruption in your daily life. Your replacement teeth will look and function like natural teeth, giving you the chance to eat, speak, and smile with confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Our doctors are always happy to review each patient’s individual needs to determine whether dental implants are the best option to restore your teeth. To learn more about dental implants, contact our office at Ventura Office Location Phone Number 805-653-5606 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.