Dental Implants

A dental implant is the placement of an artificial tooth root into the jaw that holds a replacement bridge or tooth. Dental implants are usually an option for those who have lost their teeth or teeth because of an injury, periodontal disease, or some other reason.

What are the different kinds of dental implants?

Implants are of two types:

Endosteal (in the bone): This implant is commonly used as an alternative for people with removable dentures or bridges. 

Subperiosteal(on the bone): This implant is used for patients who cannot wear conventional dentures and have very little bone height.

What is the procedure for a dental implant?

At first, the dentist or periodontist will determine your problem with a detailed dental examination. Where, how, and which implant should be placed is decided. The periodontist then goes ahead with the treatment plan, depending on your conditions and needs.

If you are to replace a single missing tooth, then just one implant and a crown can fix it. In order to replace several missing teeth, implant-supported bridges are used to fix them. But if you are to replace all your missing, then also, either an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can help to fix the issue.

An implant that looks just like a screw that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. The implant takes some time to heal, and the process in which the screw fuses with the jawbone is called osseointegration. For a while, a temporary crown is installed to help you speak and eat normally. 

As soon as the implant heals, an abutment is placed. The abutment acts as a base for the new tooth. The dentist takes an impression of the tooth/teeth to create a permanent restoration in a dental lab. As the restoration gets ready, they are placed permanently. 

What is to be expected after the implants get placed?

Once the implants get placed, they act just like your natural teeth, so the care provided is the same. You need to give conscientious at-home oral care and get a regular dental checkup. In order to keep your implant thoroughly cleaned and plaque-free, brushing and flossing are always a necessary step.

The periodontist expects to give you the best care plan, so consider their advice and medications. You will have to go for periodic follow-up visits as scheduled to check your implant and to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Call us at 209-823-1777 or schedule an online appointment with Dr. Akutagawa for a consultation at our office in Manteca, CA.