Are you missing one or more teeth and looking for a permanent solution to restore your smile? You’ve come to the right place! In this blog, our restorative dentists will outline three different types of permanent dental implants San Jose that can help you regain your confidence and improve your oral health.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small, titanium post surgically placed within your jawbone beneath the gum line. This post fuses with your jawbone, creating a stable foundation for your tooth restoration. Essentially, a dental implant acts as a replacement for your missing tooth’s root, stimulating and preserving your bone structure.

 

On top of the implant post sits a restoration, typically a single crown for one tooth, but implants can also support multiple teeth with a bridge or secure dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, boasting a 98% success rate. Due to their longevity and numerous benefits, dental implants are widely recognized as the top recommendation for permanently replacing missing teeth.

Which Type of Dental Implant is Right for You?

There are three main types of dental implants, each suited to different needs. Let’s explore these options to help you decide which is best for you.

1. Single Tooth Replacement: Single Dental Implant

A single dental implant is the most common solution for replacing a single missing tooth. This procedure involves placing one implant post and attaching a crown.

Process:

• Consultation: Meet with a dental implant expert to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
• Surgery: The implant post is placed in your jawbone using surgical-guided technology, ensuring a pain-free and comfortable experience. The post typically takes 3 to 4 months to fuse with the bone.
• Restoration: Once healed, a custom-designed crown is connected to the post with an abutment, resulting in a natural-looking and functional tooth.

 

A single tooth implant replaces the entire missing tooth from root to crown. If you have one or several non-adjacent missing teeth, this option may be ideal. However, if you have multiple adjacent missing teeth, consider the next option.

2. Multiple Teeth Replacement: Implant-Supported Bridge

An implant-supported bridge is the best option when you have multiple missing teeth adjacent to each other. A traditional bridge consists of two crowns on either side of a missing tooth gap, with an artificial tooth held by these crowns. An implant-supported bridge, however, uses implants to anchor the crowns instead of natural teeth.

Process:

• The procedure is similar to a single tooth implant, but not all missing teeth will receive implants.
• This method securely replaces multiple missing teeth in a row without the cost of replacing each tooth individually.
• Note that you may lose some bone mass since not all teeth receive an implant.

3. Full Arch Replacement: Implant-Retained Denture

If you’re missing most or all of your teeth in an upper or lower arch, an implant-retained denture may be the best solution. A denture is an artificial arch of teeth that rests on your gum line, providing the appearance of a full set of teeth. Traditional dentures can slip, slide, and make daily tasks uncomfortable. Implant-retained dentures, however, are permanently secured with dental implants, eliminating these issues.

Process:

• Specialists place four dental implants along your arch.
• While the implants heal, your current denture may be modified to avoid disrupting the healing process.
• After healing, you’ll receive a new, custom denture that fastens to the implants, offering a permanent and secure solution.

 

Implant-retained dentures are an excellent option for those with extensive tooth loss or current denture wearers seeking a more secure alternative.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

To determine if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants, our team evaluates several factors:

Bone Health

• Requirement: Sufficient bone is necessary for the implant post to fuse.
• Evaluation: A CBCT scanner provides a 3D view of your mouth and jawbone to assess bone quantity.
• Solution: If insufficient bone is present, a bone grafting procedure can help regenerate bone and tissue, enabling you to proceed with the implant surgery.

Age

• Consideration: Implants are most successful in adults whose growth and development are complete.
• Interim Solutions: If you or your child are too young, we can create temporary solutions until facial development is complete, typically around age 16 for girls and 18 for boys.

General Health

• Requirement: Good general and oral health are necessary for implant surgery.
• Considerations: Conditions like diabetes, heavy smoking, or gum disease may affect viability.
• Individual Evaluation: Our dentists in San Jose will evaluate your health and, if necessary, work with your physician to find a solution.

Conclusion

Permanent dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, enhancing both your smile and oral health. Whether you need to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch, there is a dental implant option suited to your needs. Consult with our specialists to determine the best approach for restoring your smile and confidence.