/assets/production/practices/57c04bd9db8ff2cc74b4b9a3f84d6badae384182/images/2504141.jpg)
Dental Implants services offered in Rancho Shopping Center, Los Altos, CA
If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants offer a permanent replacement option. This advanced treatment is among the services available from Sheena Vaswani, DDS, and the team at Los Altos Family Smiles in Los Altos, California. If you’re curious about what dental implants can do for your smile, call or click to book a one-on-one consultation.
Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
Most people only think about the aesthetic implications of missing teeth. While it’s true that missing teeth can make it hard to feel confident about the appearance of your smile, there are also serious dental health issues to consider.
Each of your natural teeth is anchored within the underlying bone tissue. When you bite down or chew, the pressure stimulates that tissue, keeping it healthy and strong.
Losing a tooth means losing that stimulation. The bone can begin to wear away in a process called resorption, which can cause additional tooth loss, exacerbating the problem.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option. Because implants are secured directly within your bone tissue, they also serve to preserve bone health.
A single dental implant consists of a post that serves as an artificial tooth root. An artificial crown replaces the visible portion of your tooth. Some systems use a small piece called an abutment to connect the post and crown.
There are also implant systems like All-on-4® that replace an entire upper or lower span of missing teeth using just four implanted posts. This can be a great alternative to traditional dentures.
What are the steps involved in getting dental implants?
The planning process is arguably the most important step in getting dental implants. Advanced digital imaging and software create a customized implant plan designed for your specific needs. On the day of your procedure, an injection of numbing medication ensures you rest comfortably throughout the procedure.
Your dentist creates an incision in your gum tissue to access the underlying bone. A pilot hole guides the insertion of the post before your gums are closed again. A period of healing follows. Once your bone tissue fuses with the implanted post, you return to have the crown attached.
This completes the dental implant procedure, and your implant looks and functions just like your natural teeth. If you’d like more information about dental implants, schedule an appointment online in just a matter of moments. You can also call to check appointment availability.