Dental implants are the most secure way to replace missing teeth and their roots. They are also extremely versatile and can help replace a single missing tooth or several teeth. For dental implants in Fullerton Brea, Yorba Linda, or La Habra, visit our dental office in Fullerton, CA. Our skilled dentists, Dr. Eric Meyer, Dr. Eric Cho, and Dr. Leonard Plaitano, can restore your smile with dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small metal post that replaces the root of a tooth. It also functions as a root by anchoring the replacement tooth in place. A variety of tooth restorations can be used in conjunction with dental implants, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants sit below the gum line and are inserted directly into the jawbone. The restoration is attached to the implant but sits above the gum line like a natural tooth.
Candidates for Dental Implants
Placing dental implants in the jawbone is what makes them so secure. Through a naturally occurring process known as osseointegration, the metal implant post bonds with the bone tissue. Within a few months, the two materials will be permanently fused.
Unfortunately, not everyone who has experienced tooth loss will be a candidate for dental implants. Bone loss in the jaw area is a common side effect of losing teeth. The body eventually reabsorbs bone tissue that is not supporting teeth. Without enough bone tissue for osseointegration to occur, it is not possible to successfully place dental implants.
In addition to having sufficient bone tissue, candidates for dental implants should also have healthy gums and a strong immune system. The experienced dentists at our office serving Fullerton, Brea, Yorba Linda, and La Habra can determine if dental implants are an option for restoring your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Several exciting benefits are associated with dental implants. In addition to replacing missing teeth, dental implants also help reduce or eliminate many of the unwanted side effects of tooth loss. Benefits include:
- Restoring your smile following tooth loss
- Restoring normal biting and chewing functions
- Preserving bone tissue by preventing its reabsorption
- Reducing wear and tear on teeth that were compensating for missing ones
- Reducing facial sagging by providing support for the muscles in the face
- Preventing remaining natural teeth from shifting into gaps
- Improving speech altered by tooth loss
Dental implants are a state-of-the-art solution to restoring smiles affected by tooth loss. They offer numerous benefits, as well. For dental implants in the Fullerton, Brea, Yorba Linda, and La Habra areas, contact our office in Fullerton, CA, to schedule an appointment with Dr. Meyer, Dr. Cho, or Dr. Plaitano by calling (714) 879-7943.