Smile Makeovers 101: FAQs About Dental Implants

Missing teeth impact more than just appearance; they affect how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself every day. Whether you're missing one tooth or several, dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that restores both the form and function of your smile. 

Around three million Americans currently have dental implants, with that number growing by 500,000 annually. This remarkable growth reflects the effectiveness and reliability of implants as the gold standard for tooth replacement. 

Wondering why so many people choose this life-changing dental solution? Continue reading to get answers to the most common questions about dental implants and explore how they fit into a complete smile makeover from the best cosmetic dentist for dental implants in Redwood City, CA.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as artificial tooth roots when surgically placed into the jawbone. These biocompatible metal anchors serve as the foundation for replacement teeth. Once in place, the implant undergoes osseointegration, where it gradually fuses with your natural bone over several months, creating an extremely stable base. This secure foundation then supports a custom-made crown, bridge, or even full-arch restoration that looks and functions like natural teeth. 

How Can I Decide if Dental Implants Are Right for Me?

The ideal candidates for dental implants have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density to properly support the titanium posts. While certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, smoking habits, or significant bone loss might initially seem like obstacles, they don't automatically disqualify you from getting implants. Many patients who face these challenges can still become eligible through additional procedures, such as bone grafting or with proper medical management of existing conditions. 

To determine if implants align with your smile goals, your dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation that typically includes detailed dental X-rays or a more advanced 3D imaging scan called cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). This thorough assessment reveals the exact structure of your jawbone and helps create a personalized treatment plan. 

What Can I Expect if I Decide to Get Dental Implants?

The dental implant journey unfolds in three distinct phases: 

1. The first step is a minor surgical procedure to place the titanium post into your jawbone. 
2. Next, your body needs time to heal. Typically, three to six months, as the implant fuses with your natural bone. 
3. Once this foundation is secure, your dentist attaches your custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to complete your smile restoration. 

For some patients, additional steps may be necessary before implant placement can occur. These may include bone grafting to rebuild insufficient jaw structure or tooth extraction to remove damaged teeth. Despite the comprehensive nature of this process, most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable it is. Most patients report experiencing only minimal discomfort during recovery, with many able to return to their normal work and daily activities within just a day or two after the implant surgery. 

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants Compared to Other Restorative Dental Options?

Unlike removable dentures that may shift uncomfortably during meals or conversations, implants remain permanently fixed in your mouth, allowing you to eat, speak, and laugh with complete confidence. This stability comes from their unique integration with your jawbone, which provides another crucial benefit: bone preservation. 

When natural teeth are lost, the jawbone typically begins to deteriorate over time. Implants are the only replacement option that actively stimulates bone growth through regular chewing forces, much like natural tooth roots, helping maintain your facial structure and preventing the sunken appearance often associated with long-term tooth loss. 

Most importantly for patients, dental implants deliver the most natural-looking and natural-feeling result possible. From appearance to function, they mimic natural teeth so effectively that many patients eventually forget which teeth are implants and which are their original teeth.

How Do I Care for Dental Implants?

Maintaining dental implants is remarkably similar to caring for natural teeth: 

• Daily brushing and flossing remain essential, as implant crowns can still collect plaque and bacteria that might lead to gum line inflammation around the implant site. 
• Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings play an important role in implant longevity and your overall dental health. These visits allow your dentist to monitor the health of both the implant and the surrounding gum tissue before small issues become serious problems. 
• Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure by restricting blood flow to the healing tissues, while excessive forces from teeth grinding or clenching can damage the implant components over time. Avoiding these habits and consulting your dentist to determine if a night guard is right for you will help protect your investment. 

With proper care and regular dental visits, your dental implants can last decades, even a lifetime.

Where to Find the Best Restorative Dentist in Redwood City for Dental Implants

A missing tooth can feel like more than a cosmetic issue; it can quietly impact your confidence, your comfort, and even the way you connect with others. At Redwood City Dentistry, we offer more than just advanced dental implants; we provide a supportive, high-tech experience tailored to your goals. 

‍Our team combines cutting-edge tools with a personalized approach to ensure your treatment is as seamless and effective as possible. From your first visit to our state-of-the-art office, we focus on clear communication, meticulous planning, and natural-looking results that last.