Dental Implants Archives - Lovebites Dental https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/category/dental-implants/ Mon, 03 Apr 2023 15:15:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LoveBites-1.png Dental Implants Archives - Lovebites Dental https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/category/dental-implants/ 32 32 What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/what-are-implant-supported-dentures/ Tue, 08 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/what-is-an-implant-supported-denture/ Simply put, traditional dentures do not function as well as dental implants. If you have had traditional dentures before, you understand the struggle and limitations – biting and chewing issues, mouth sores, and difficulty talking. Why Traditional Dentures Cause Problems Traditional dentures sit on the gums. Traditional dentures are held in place only by suction, …

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Simply put, traditional dentures do not function as well as dental implants.

If you have had traditional dentures before, you understand the struggle and limitations – biting and chewing issues, mouth sores, and difficulty talking.

beautiful couple showing off their confident smiles with dental implants Why Traditional Dentures Cause Problems

Traditional dentures sit on the gums. Traditional dentures are held in place only by suction, which is not a strong force. Denture adhesive is also a weak glue, but its primary function is to improve the seal between dentures and your gums to help the suction. Even with a good seal, you can easily dislodge your dentures when you try to chew or talk. When dentures slide around in your mouth, they can cause painful sores because of their rubbing.

In addition, dentures transfer bite forces to your gums. Your gums are soft and can’t withstand the pressure of biting and chewing the way teeth and bones can. Putting force on your gums that they can’t withstand causes mouth sores.

In addition, traditional dentures do not stimulate the underlying bone. Your natural teeth are embedded in your jawbone, and they stimulate the bone, so your body retains it. When your teeth are gone, there is no stimulation of the jawbone.

As a consequence, the bone will resorb or shrink over time. But there is a solution: implant-supported dentures.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant dentures don’t just sit on your gums; dental implants secure them. Dental implants are screws made of titanium that an implant dentist places in your jawbone. The bone attaches to the dental implant, bonding it securely in place.

We can further distinguish implant dentures between implant-retained dentures and implant-supported dentures.

Implant-retained dentures use dental implants to secure the denture in place. This keeps them from slipping out of place when chewing, talking, or laughing. However, much of the force of biting and chewing still presses on the gums.

Implant-supported dentures don’t just use dental implants to secure the denture. Instead, implant-supported dentures direct bite force into the bones. The tradeoff is that these require more dental implants than implant-retained dentures. Implant-retained dentures might require as few as two dental implants. Implant-supported dentures need four, six, or eight dental implants to provide support.

Implant-supported dentures also need to be stronger to withstand the increased bite force. You can often modify traditional dentures into implant-retained dentures, but implant-supported dentures often require an entirely new denture.

Note: not all dentists clearly distinguish between the types of implant dentures. Talk to your dentist about how your implant dentures will function, so you understand what to expect.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures offer the following benefits over conventional dentures:

  • Greater comfort
  • Preservation of bone
  • Secured fit
  • Improved function
  • Improved sense of taste

Implant-retained dentures also offer some of these benefits, but not all.

Greater Comfort

Many people experience pain with their traditional dentures. Bite forces on tender gums, as well as loose dentures sliding around, can all cause denture pain.

Implant-supported dentures are secure in the mouth, so they don’t cause pain from sliding around. In addition, implant-supported dentures direct bite force into the jawbone, taking the pressure without experiencing pain.

Implant-supported dentures don’t have to cover your upper palate fully and are free of denture adhesive. You’ll feel freer and more comfortable with implant-supported dentures.

Preservation of Bone

Implant-supported dentures preserve the remaining underlying bone by encouraging bone growth and preventing bone loss. Bite force stimulates the bone, so the body retains or builds up the bone around implants. The amount of bone your implant dentures retain depends on how many implants you have.

Traditional dentures just sit on the top of the gums, and they can’t do anything to prevent bone loss which eventually leads to premature aging, facial sagging, and loss of function.

Secure Fit

Dental implants integrate with your natural bone, so they are very secure. Dental implants are essentially permanent attachments to your jawbone. Implant dentures attach securely to the dental implants.

An implant-supported denture won’t slip, slide, or fall off no matter how much you talk, laugh, or chew. This will give you more confidence to face other people. Most implant dentures are still removable. It’s relatively easy once you know how. However, some implant dentures can be securely attached to your implants so that only your dentist can remove them.

Excellent Restoration of Function

Because they’re more stable and secure than traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures can better restore function.

According to studies, implant-retained dentures restore as much as 95% of normal function (that is, the biting and chewing ability normally provided by natural teeth) versus the 25% of their traditional counterparts.

Improved Sense of Taste

Your sense of taste doesn’t just depend on your tongue. Your palate–the roof of your mouth–also plays an integral part in your sense of taste. Because implant-supported dentures cover less of your upper palate, you will have less interference with the taste of food. Plus, you can stop using denture adhesive, which interferes with your taste sense.

You can, therefore, enjoy a wider variety of food with implant dentures.

You can enjoy almost all the foods you used to eat when you had your natural teeth.

How Much Do Implant-Supported Dentures Cost?

It may be costlier to replace missing teeth with an implant-supported denture, but it pays off tremendously in the long run, given the benefits listed above.

There will be less need for relining, rebasing, or replacements with implant-supported dentures.

As long as you practice good oral hygiene and you visit your dentist regularly, your implant-supported denture can even last nearly a lifetime. Some implant-supported dentures show up to 80% survival after 30 years, and dental implants last 50 years or more.

Even with all the advantages of an implant-supported denture, some patients still feel that a traditional denture is more suitable for their case.

Ultimately, you should work with your denture dentist to determine which type of dentures is best for you.

Get Implant-Supported Dentures in San Diego

If you are unhappy with either the thought or reality of traditional dentures and want to learn about better options, make an appointment with an implant dentist at Irresistible Smiles in San Diego.

Please call (619) 656-6785 or email us with our online contact form to schedule an appointment at our office in San Diego.

The post What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? appeared first on Lovebites Dental.

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What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/what-is-an-implant-supported-denture/ Tue, 08 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/what-is-an-implant-supported-denture/ Simply put, traditional dentures do not function as well as dental implants. If you have had traditional dentures before, you understand the struggle and limitations – biting and chewing issues, mouth sores, and difficulty talking. Why Traditional Dentures Cause Problems Traditional dentures sit on the gums. Traditional dentures are held in place only by suction, …

What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? Read More »

The post What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? appeared first on Lovebites Dental.

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Simply put, traditional dentures do not function as well as dental implants.

If you have had traditional dentures before, you understand the struggle and limitations – biting and chewing issues, mouth sores, and difficulty talking.

beautiful couple showing off their confident smiles with dental implants Why Traditional Dentures Cause Problems

Traditional dentures sit on the gums. Traditional dentures are held in place only by suction, which is not a strong force. Denture adhesive is also a weak glue, but its primary function is to improve the seal between dentures and your gums to help the suction. Even with a good seal, you can easily dislodge your dentures when you try to chew or talk. When dentures slide around in your mouth, they can cause painful sores because of their rubbing.

In addition, dentures transfer bite forces to your gums. Your gums are soft and can’t withstand the pressure of biting and chewing the way teeth and bones can. Putting force on your gums that they can’t withstand causes mouth sores.

In addition, traditional dentures do not stimulate the underlying bone. Your natural teeth are embedded in your jawbone, and they stimulate the bone, so your body retains it. When your teeth are gone, there is no stimulation of the jawbone.

As a consequence, the bone will resorb or shrink over time. But there is a solution: implant-supported dentures.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant dentures don’t just sit on your gums; dental implants secure them. Dental implants are screws made of titanium that an implant dentist places in your jawbone. The bone attaches to the dental implant, bonding it securely in place.

We can further distinguish implant dentures between implant-retained dentures and implant-supported dentures.

Implant-retained dentures use dental implants to secure the denture in place. This keeps them from slipping out of place when chewing, talking, or laughing. However, much of the force of biting and chewing still presses on the gums.

Implant-supported dentures don’t just use dental implants to secure the denture. Instead, implant-supported dentures direct bite force into the bones. The tradeoff is that these require more dental implants than implant-retained dentures. Implant-retained dentures might require as few as two dental implants. Implant-supported dentures need four, six, or eight dental implants to provide support.

Implant-supported dentures also need to be stronger to withstand the increased bite force. You can often modify traditional dentures into implant-retained dentures, but implant-supported dentures often require an entirely new denture.

Note: not all dentists clearly distinguish between the types of implant dentures. Talk to your dentist about how your implant dentures will function, so you understand what to expect.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures offer the following benefits over conventional dentures:

  • Greater comfort
  • Preservation of bone
  • Secured fit
  • Improved function
  • Improved sense of taste

Implant-retained dentures also offer some of these benefits, but not all.

Greater Comfort

Many people experience pain with their traditional dentures. Bite forces on tender gums, as well as loose dentures sliding around, can all cause denture pain.

Implant-supported dentures are secure in the mouth, so they don’t cause pain from sliding around. In addition, implant-supported dentures direct bite force into the jawbone, taking the pressure without experiencing pain.

Implant-supported dentures don’t have to cover your upper palate fully and are free of denture adhesive. You’ll feel freer and more comfortable with implant-supported dentures.

Preservation of Bone

Implant-supported dentures preserve the remaining underlying bone by encouraging bone growth and preventing bone loss. Bite force stimulates the bone, so the body retains or builds up the bone around implants. The amount of bone your implant dentures retain depends on how many implants you have.

Traditional dentures just sit on the top of the gums, and they can’t do anything to prevent bone loss which eventually leads to premature aging, facial sagging, and loss of function.

Secure Fit

Dental implants integrate with your natural bone, so they are very secure. Dental implants are essentially permanent attachments to your jawbone. Implant dentures attach securely to the dental implants.

An implant-supported denture won’t slip, slide, or fall off no matter how much you talk, laugh, or chew. This will give you more confidence to face other people. Most implant dentures are still removable. It’s relatively easy once you know how. However, some implant dentures can be securely attached to your implants so that only your dentist can remove them.

Excellent Restoration of Function

Because they’re more stable and secure than traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures can better restore function.

According to studies, implant-retained dentures restore as much as 95% of normal function (that is, the biting and chewing ability normally provided by natural teeth) versus the 25% of their traditional counterparts.

Improved Sense of Taste

Your sense of taste doesn’t just depend on your tongue. Your palate–the roof of your mouth–also plays an integral part in your sense of taste. Because implant-supported dentures cover less of your upper palate, you will have less interference with the taste of food. Plus, you can stop using denture adhesive, which interferes with your taste sense.

You can, therefore, enjoy a wider variety of food with implant dentures.

You can enjoy almost all the foods you used to eat when you had your natural teeth.

How Much Do Implant-Supported Dentures Cost?

It may be costlier to replace missing teeth with an implant-supported denture, but it pays off tremendously in the long run, given the benefits listed above.

There will be less need for relining, rebasing, or replacements with implant-supported dentures.

As long as you practice good oral hygiene and you visit your dentist regularly, your implant-supported denture can even last nearly a lifetime. Some implant-supported dentures show up to 80% survival after 30 years, and dental implants last 50 years or more.

Even with all the advantages of an implant-supported denture, some patients still feel that a traditional denture is more suitable for their case.

Ultimately, you should work with your denture dentist to determine which type of dentures is best for you.

Get Implant-Supported Dentures in San Diego

If you are unhappy with either the thought or reality of traditional dentures and want to learn about better options, make an appointment with an implant dentist at Irresistible Smiles in San Diego.

Please call (619) 656-6785 or email us with our online contact form to schedule an appointment at our office in San Diego.

The post What Is An Implant-Supported Denture? appeared first on Lovebites Dental.

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How to Maintain Your Dental Implants https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/how-to-maintain-your-dental-implants/ Wed, 12 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/how-to-maintain-your-dental-implants/ Are you thinking of getting dental implants? If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants are likely the best replacement option for you. They offer many benefits, such as giving you a beautiful smile, letting you bite and chew normally, and always being fixed firmly in your mouth.  But perhaps the best benefit …

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attractive woman standing on a pier shows off her amazing smileAre you thinking of getting dental implants? If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants are likely the best replacement option for you. They offer many benefits, such as giving you a beautiful smile, letting you bite and chew normally, and always being fixed firmly in your mouth. 

But perhaps the best benefit of dental implants is that they can last a lifetime if cared for properly. What does proper care mean? Some people think that they can neglect dental implants because they can’t get cavities. Dental implants are indeed immune to cavities. Dental implants’ titanium and advanced ceramics don’t develop cavities like natural tooth material. However, dental implants depend on your natural gums and bones for support. For your implants to stay in place, you have to make sure you keep these support tissues healthy. Plus, you have to make sure any natural teeth you still have stay healthy, too. 

Here are some tips to help you keep your support tissues healthy so your implants can last a lifetime. 

Tips for Maintaining your Dental Implants

Your dentist or periodontist and hygienist will advise you to religiously do the following to keep your dental implants in the best condition for the longest time possible:

1. Follow Your Dentist’s Orders

Your implant specialist will create a unique dental checkup schedule as well as a specific care plan for you. To get the best results with your implants and avoid problems like peri-implantitis (inflammation in the tissue surrounding the implant), follow each specific guideline of your dentist’s plans.

Whenever you have care questions, go to your dentist’s specific instructions. If your question isn’t answered, call to talk to your dentist. After all, dental implants are custom appliances, and yours might be different. It’s best to ask the dentist who placed them. 

2. Visit Your Hygienist Every 3 to 6 Months

Unlike regular teeth, implants cannot handle the typical metal cleaning tools hygienists regularly use. You need special and softer cleaning tools for your implants, and you might need cleanings more often than with your natural teeth. Your dentist may require you to see the hygienist as often as every three months. However, people develop plaque and tartar at different rates, so you might still only need to visit your dentist and hygienist twice a year. Ask your dentist what’s best, and be prepared to change your routine as necessary. 

3. Floss, Floss, & Floss!

Flossing with implants is as essential as it is with regular teeth simply because it reaches that narrow space between implants that brushes cannot get.

The proper approach to flossing depends on the structure of your implants and your restorations. For some people, traditional dental floss works best. A proxy brush also called an interdental brush, is better for others. Other times, a water flosser might be a better choice. Be prepared to try different tools. Plus, you might need a combination of techniques to get the best results. 

At each of your cleaning appointments, your hygienist will let you know how well you’re doing and whether you might need to try different tools. 

4. Ask about Mouthwash

Another valuable technique for cleaning around your dental implants is a mouth rinse. This might be a valuable addition to your daily hygiene routine for some people. There are many different types of mouth rinses on the market, including alcohol-based or non-alcohol-based mouthwash. Ask your dentist whether you should use mouthwash and which type is right for you. 

5. Pick The Right Toothpaste

Use a toothpaste that’s designed to provide extra protection for your gums. You need protection against oral bacteria and other gum problems. Ask your dentist for recommendations on good kinds of toothpaste to use with your dental implants.

6. Watch for Signs of Trouble

You are the first line of defense for your dental implants, so it’s crucial for you to keep an eye out for signs of possible complications. This includes any deviation from the expected course of healing, setbacks in your healing, or new symptoms around your dental implants, such as redness, pain, or looseness. Natural teeth have some movement, but dental implants should be firm and have no motion. 

7. Always Give Your Dentist a Visit

Stay in touch with your dentist.  For the slightest pain, discomfort, or questions, always run to your implant specialist before things worsen. The first few months of using dental implants are always the most critical, so extra care is needed, especially against infections around the healing tissues. To learn more about proper maintenance or address your concerns regarding dental implants, please call (619) 656-6785 or contact Irresistible Smiles in San Diego today.

The post How to Maintain Your Dental Implants appeared first on Lovebites Dental.

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How to Maintain Your Dental Implants https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/how-to-maintain-your-dental-implants-2/ Wed, 12 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/how-to-maintain-your-dental-implants-2/ Are you thinking of getting dental implants? If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants are likely the best replacement option for you. They offer many benefits, such as giving you a beautiful smile, letting you bite and chew normally, and always being fixed firmly in your mouth.  But perhaps the best benefit …

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attractive woman standing on a pier shows off her amazing smileAre you thinking of getting dental implants? If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants are likely the best replacement option for you. They offer many benefits, such as giving you a beautiful smile, letting you bite and chew normally, and always being fixed firmly in your mouth. 

But perhaps the best benefit of dental implants is that they can last a lifetime if cared for properly. What does proper care mean? Some people think that they can neglect dental implants because they can’t get cavities. Dental implants are indeed immune to cavities. Dental implants’ titanium and advanced ceramics don’t develop cavities like natural tooth material. However, dental implants depend on your natural gums and bones for support. For your implants to stay in place, you have to make sure you keep these support tissues healthy. Plus, you have to make sure any natural teeth you still have stay healthy, too. 

Here are some tips to help you keep your support tissues healthy so your implants can last a lifetime. 

Tips for Maintaining your Dental Implants

Your dentist or periodontist and hygienist will advise you to religiously do the following to keep your dental implants in the best condition for the longest time possible:

1. Follow Your Dentist’s Orders

Your implant specialist will create a unique dental checkup schedule as well as a specific care plan for you. To get the best results with your implants and avoid problems like peri-implantitis (inflammation in the tissue surrounding the implant), follow each specific guideline of your dentist’s plans.

Whenever you have care questions, go to your dentist’s specific instructions. If your question isn’t answered, call to talk to your dentist. After all, dental implants are custom appliances, and yours might be different. It’s best to ask the dentist who placed them. 

2. Visit Your Hygienist Every 3 to 6 Months

Unlike regular teeth, implants cannot handle the typical metal cleaning tools hygienists regularly use. You need special and softer cleaning tools for your implants, and you might need cleanings more often than with your natural teeth. Your dentist may require you to see the hygienist as often as every three months. However, people develop plaque and tartar at different rates, so you might still only need to visit your dentist and hygienist twice a year. Ask your dentist what’s best, and be prepared to change your routine as necessary. 

3. Floss, Floss, & Floss!

Flossing with implants is as essential as it is with regular teeth simply because it reaches that narrow space between implants that brushes cannot get.

The proper approach to flossing depends on the structure of your implants and your restorations. For some people, traditional dental floss works best. A proxy brush also called an interdental brush, is better for others. Other times, a water flosser might be a better choice. Be prepared to try different tools. Plus, you might need a combination of techniques to get the best results. 

At each of your cleaning appointments, your hygienist will let you know how well you’re doing and whether you might need to try different tools. 

4. Ask about Mouthwash

Another valuable technique for cleaning around your dental implants is a mouth rinse. This might be a valuable addition to your daily hygiene routine for some people. There are many different types of mouth rinses on the market, including alcohol-based or non-alcohol-based mouthwash. Ask your dentist whether you should use mouthwash and which type is right for you. 

5. Pick The Right Toothpaste

Use a toothpaste that’s designed to provide extra protection for your gums. You need protection against oral bacteria and other gum problems. Ask your dentist for recommendations on good kinds of toothpaste to use with your dental implants.

6. Watch for Signs of Trouble

You are the first line of defense for your dental implants, so it’s crucial for you to keep an eye out for signs of possible complications. This includes any deviation from the expected course of healing, setbacks in your healing, or new symptoms around your dental implants, such as redness, pain, or looseness. Natural teeth have some movement, but dental implants should be firm and have no motion. 

7. Always Give Your Dentist a Visit

Stay in touch with your dentist.  For the slightest pain, discomfort, or questions, always run to your implant specialist before things worsen. The first few months of using dental implants are always the most critical, so extra care is needed, especially against infections around the healing tissues. To learn more about proper maintenance or address your concerns regarding dental implants, please call (619) 656-6785 or contact Irresistible Smiles in San Diego today.

The post How to Maintain Your Dental Implants appeared first on Lovebites Dental.

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Seven Reasons to Choose Dental Implants https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/seven-reasons-to-choose-dental-implants-in-san-diego/ Wed, 22 Sep 2021 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/seven-reasons-to-choose-dental-implants/ If you have lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them. Modern dentistry gives us many options for replacing your teeth, but of all the options available, none are as good as dental implants. What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants are rods of titanium about half-an-inch long. They are surgically placed into your …

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If you have lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them. Modern dentistry gives us many options for replacing your teeth, but of all the options available, none are as good as dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are rods of titanium about half-an-inch long. They are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the natural tooth roots.

When topped with porcelain crowns or bridges, dental implants look and function very much like natural teeth.

When Do You Need Dental Implants?

Dental implants are required when your teeth need to be replaced and can replace teeth lost for any reason. The most common cause of tooth loss among adults is gum disease, and dental implants are good replacements in this situation. They can also replace teeth lost to decay, trauma, or other reasons as well. They can be used to replace any number of teeth, from a single lost tooth to a full arch of teeth.

mature man smiling at home

Why Dental Implants In The Best Tooth Replacement Option

Dental implants are better than any other tooth replacement option. To demonstrate how, here are seven reasons why you should choose dental implants over other tooth replacement options.

1) Close to Natural

An implant is the closest thing to your natural teeth. Like your natural tooth, a dental implant is made of two specialized parts. First, the implant itself is designed to integrate with your jawbone to keep the implant secure. Second, the dental restoration, such as a dental crown or bridge (also called a denture), attaches to the implant. This provides the attractive appearance and functional chewing surface of your teeth.

There are other ways to restore the look and shape of your teeth, but most of the time they do little more than sweep the real problem under the rug. They replace the visible part of the tooth, but lack the root that supports and secures the tooth. 

2) Stimulate Your Bone and Support Your Gums

Having something like your natural tooth root is very important for your jawbone and gums. When it comes to your bone, it is very much a “use it or lose it” situation. If your body detects that bone isn’t experiencing weight and pressure, it will begin to resorb the bone, taking away the valuable nutrients to use elsewhere.

If you’ve seen someone who has worn removable dentures for a long time, you know what this looks like: their face has collapsed, with excess, floppy skin hanging off or folding inward.

But dental implants stimulate the jawbone so your body doesn’t remove it. This means that you will be able to maintain your youthful profile for as long as you have your dental implants. 

3) Long Lasting

And how long will you have your dental implants? That is a question nobody knows the answer to, yet. Dental implants can potentially last a lifetime if they are placed by trained practitioners and maintained properly.

Initial success rates for dental implants range between 90-98% depending on the study and the experience level of the dentist placing them.

Long-range studies of 20-30 years confirm that over 90% of dental implants can last that long. Results beyond that are hard to obtain because study populations that receive dental implants start to pass away before the final results are collected. However, there are documented individual cases of people having dental implants for 40-50 years. This is quite remarkable given that the first dental implant procedure ever was in 1965.

Note that this lifespan is for the dental implant–root–itself. The dental restoration on top of the implant is unlikely to last as long. Some dental bridges can last up to 30 years on implants, but many restorations, especially individual crowns, last 10-15 years.

For comparison, dental bridges supported by your natural teeth might also last 10-15 years. However, removable dentures are not long-lived, lasting 8 years or less. 

4) Attractive Appearance

An American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey has discovered that more than 9 out of 10 people in the U.S. value an attractive smile.

Dental implants can give you a natural-looking smile. In fact, many people won’t be able to tell which of your teeth are dental implants and which are natural. Even dentists have a hard time spotting implants without a close inspection.

Removable dentures are easy to spot because of their plastic teeth, plastic bases, and support hooks. Dental bridges might look natural at first, but as the bone and gum collapse under the bridge, people will see the gap underneath. 

5) Secure

We’ve noted before that dental implants fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration. Your bones don’t just grow around the implant, they attach to it. As long as your bone stays healthy around the implant, this means that the implant is as secure as natural teeth and will never come out.

This allows dental implants to support themselves without help from your other teeth. Modifying teeth for dental bridges or using them to secure dentures can lead to additional tooth loss. Dental implants, though, don’t interfere with your natural teeth. 

6) Improved Speech

Poor-fitting dentures can slip in your mouth, causing you to mumble and/or slur your words. With dental implants, you do not have to worry about this issue. Dental implant-supported teeth just stay in place so that you can speak easily and naturally.

Another issue with removable dentures is that they are bulkier than natural teeth. The plastic base that supports the denture teeth can be a large structure that interferes with the movement of your lips and tongue so that you have to relearn how to speak once you get this type of tooth replacement. 

7) Improved Eating

Removable dentures are terrible for eating. Your natural chewing motion goes in multiple directions in a complex configuration that efficiently grinds food between your teeth. However, this type of motion would dislodge dentures. People with partial dentures often simply remove their dentures to eat. People with full dentures will do this sometimes, but others learn to chew differently, with a straight up-and-down motion. It’s not efficient, but it works.

However, with dental implants, you can maintain your natural chewing motion. This makes it easier for you to eat a wide variety of foods, including steak, apples, and corn on the cob. Anything you enjoyed with your natural teeth, you can enjoy with dental implants. And we do mean enjoy. With dentures, people often find that their taste is dulled by the plastic plates that cover their upper palate. The roof of your mouth has almost as many taste receptors as your tongue, so covering it over diminishes the apparent flavor of foods. With dental implants, your palate is uncovered, so you get the full flavor of the foods that you eat. 

Are You Looking for Dental Implants in San Diego?

You may have lost some or all of your natural teeth, but you can still enjoy a beautiful, functional smile. All you have to do is request a consultation with Dr. Shahin Safarianby calling (619) 656-6785 in Chula VistaYour first consultation is free.

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8 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Dental Implants https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/8-things-you-probably-dont-know-about-dental-implants/ Wed, 21 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/8-things-you-probably-dont-know-about-dental-implants/ If you’re thinking of investing in dental implants, you will definitely want to make sure your investment is going towards a treatment that will provide you with amazing results. Most people know that dental implants help replace the tooth root when you lose a tooth and provide a stable foundation for dentures, dental bridges, or …

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If you’re thinking of investing in dental implants, you will definitely want to make sure your investment is going towards a treatment that will provide you with amazing results. Most people know that dental implants help replace the tooth root when you lose a tooth and provide a stable foundation for dentures, dental bridges, or dental crowns. However, aside from that, most people don’t know too much about dental implants. Here are eight new things to learn about dental implants.

1. They Prevent Bone Loss

After you lose a tooth, it doesn’t just affect your smile. It can also affect the jaw bone. When your jaw bone no longer has a tooth to latch onto, the bone no longer serves a purpose. Over time, the bone will disappear which can affect your facial appearance and even cause remaining teeth to shift in your mouth. When you decide to get dental implants, they will help stimulate the bone in your jaw. Instead of disappearing, the bone will retain itself. As a result, you won’t have to deal with any appearance or bite changes that usually come with tooth loss.

Mature couple enjoying the seaside together

2. Implants Fuse Together with Bone

Most people know implant surgery involves placing the dental implant in the jaw bone. However, many people don’t realize that the reason why dental implants prevent bone loss is that they fuse together with the bone. When the implant gets placed, it stimulates bone growth. The bone then grows around the implant and fuses together. The fusion is what keeps the dental implants and tooth replacement secure like natural teeth for chewing, biting, talking, and smiling. The fusion between the titanium implant and the bone can make the mouth even stronger than before!

3. Implants Look Natural

If you’re worried that dental implants don’t look natural – don’t. Dental implants themselves are not noticeable unless they are placed incorrectly. However, you don’t have to worry about that with Dr. Safarian. After the implants are placed, you will choose a tooth replacement option like dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Some tooth replacements can look unnatural if you go through a budget option. When you visit Dr. Safarian for your dental implants and tooth replacement, he will customize your tooth replacement’s shape, color, and size to complement your face and look natural.

4. You Don’t Need to Replace Healthy Teeth

You don’t have to have all your teeth pulled to get dental implants. We can replace single and multiple teeth with dental implants. During a consultation with Dr. Safarian, he will discuss how many dental implants you need to replace your teeth and talk about the different tooth replacement options you can choose from. If almost all your teeth are missing and their future looks grim, Dr. Safarian might suggest having those teeth pulled so you can replace your entire mouth with dentures. In the end, however, if your teeth are healthy and functional, there’s no need to have them pulled for dental implants.

5. You Might Need Repairs Down the Line

Although taking care of dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, they still might need repairs down the line. Some patients might even need to replace them at some point. Nothing is certain. Visiting us regularly for checkups can help us catch dental implant problems early so that small problems don’t transpire into large ones. This can prevent you from having to entirely replace your implants in the future.

6. They’re Long-Lasting

Although we just talked about the possibility of having to replace dental implants at some point, that isn’t always the case. The average lifespan of dental implants is 20 years and with proper maintenance, some people have implants that last the rest of their lives. Although implants cost a lot upfront, their longevity is absolutely worth it.

7. They’re Stronger Than Natural Teeth

The Official Journal of the Academy of Osseointegration featured some researchers who think that a few dental implants are stronger than natural teeth. Although this isn’t proven yet, you can replace an entire jaw of teeth with as little as four implants.

8. Dental Implants are More Affordable Than What Most Think

The last thing you probably don’t already know about dental implants is how affordable they are. Most people think it will cost more than a brand-new car to replace their missing teeth with dental implants. That is not the case. The upfront cost of dental implants might look pricey compared to dentures, but once you configure all the costs associated with dentures like adhesives, replacements every 10 years, cleaners, and checkups, the cost of dental implants is actually similar and offers many more benefits you won’t find with dentures.

Are you ready to transform your smile with dental implants? Learn if dental implants in San Diego are the right procedure for you and how much your treatment will cost during a consultation with Dr. Safarian. Call us today at (619) 656-6785 to book an appointment.

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How Do Zirconia Implants Compare to Titanium? https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/are-zirconia-implants-better/ Thu, 10 Oct 2019 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/how-do-zirconia-implants-compare-to-titanium/ Titanium is the material most often used in dental implants. It has many benefits: it’s strong, nontoxic, and it integrates completely with the bone of your jaw to form a solid connection that can last a lifetime with proper care. But there are new materials that can perform this role as well, most prominently zirconia. …

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Titanium is the material most often used in dental implants. It has many benefits: it’s strong, nontoxic, and it integrates completely with the bone of your jaw to form a solid connection that can last a lifetime with proper care.

But there are new materials that can perform this role as well, most prominently zirconia. Zirconia is a ceramic that, when stabilized by yttrium, is even stronger than titanium, and it can be used in the same role as a dental implant. But is this new material better? That’s what a new review set out to determine. The review also compared zirconia restorations (the visible part that goes on top of the implant) to other types of restorations.

The review concluded that the implants themselves weren’t better than titanium, but the restorations could be much better than other options available.

Older woman working out in gym with other woman. Just like making yourself better it's important to look at what's better - Zirconia or Titanium Implants?

Attractive Implants, but Not Otherwise Better

When people promote zirconia implants, they typically cite a number of potential benefits of using ceramic rather than metal. This includes better biocompatibility with gum tissue and bone, as well as even better integration with your bone. Plus, you might be less likely to be allergic to the ceramic, compared to titanium, which can trigger allergies in about 0.5% of patients.

However, in the words of this review, zirconia demonstrated “no clear superiority,” in these areas. This doesn’t mean it isn’t better, and the author noted that early results “have been promising.” But we need more large and long-term clinical studies to demonstrate the superiority (if it’s real).

However, because zirconia is colored like natural teeth, it might still be a better choice for some people who have thin gums that might allow titanium to show through as a gray patch on the gums.

Restorations Are Better

Where zirconia really improved dental implants is in the restorations. The dental implant is technically the part of the replacement tooth that replaces the roots. The restoration is the visible part that goes on top, a dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Zirconia is a great material for this application. When made completely from zirconia, these restorations had a high survival rate, lower complications, reduced costs, greater wear resistance, and better durability. The restorations also integrate really well with full-digital processes, making them an ideal choice moving forward as more dentists and labs adopt this approach.

Quality Restorations in San Diego

At Irresistible Smiles, we are dedicated to offering our patients the best restorations made from the best available materials, including zirconia.

If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in the San Diego area that’s attractive, durable, and cost-effective, please call (858) 755-8993 today for an appointment with a cosmetic dentist at either the San Diego or Chula Vista location of Irresistible Smiles.

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Tips to Lower the Cost of Dental Implant https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/tips-to-lower-the-cost-of-dental-implant/ Sat, 27 Feb 2016 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/tips-to-lower-the-cost-of-dental-implant/ A dental implant is significant for people who have broken, missing or damaged teeth. But not everyone can afford them due to their higher cost. Saving money can be a challenging task while availing dental implant treatment. Here are some tricks which cut down your initial cost of dental implants: 1) More Means Less: If …

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A dental implant is significant for people who have broken, missing or damaged teeth.

But not everyone can afford them due to their higher cost. Saving money can be a challenging task while availing dental implant treatment.

Here are some tricks which cut down your initial cost of dental implants:

Tips for lowering the cost of dental implants

1) More Means Less:

If you have made your mind to have dental implants done at one time you should go for more implants at the same time, this will reduce your overall cost.

This is generally recommended to have a lot of implants done in one visit or in one session because of dentist overhead fee will be spread out between each dental implants, rather than all of the overhead fees being connected to just one single implant.

If you think that you may need multiple implants, talk to your dentist about this, and they will be able to explain the savings to you properly.

2) Special Offers:

Cosmetic dentists provide special offers and discounts to new customers so you must look around these deals before committing anything.

Sometimes these deals may help you to get hundreds of dollars off of the cost of dental implants.

3) Health and Beauty Magazines:

Dental Implants dental specialists regularly put adverts or do promote highlights in health and beauty magazines, and these components frequently offer unique discounts or money off coupons to readers.

Magazine features are likewise an extraordinary spot to discover more information about cosmetic dental work and how it can help you to feel confident about your smile once more.

4)Insurance:

Some exhaustive dental insurance approaches will help you to take care of the expense of having implants.

In the event that your insurance offers help with the expense of dental implants, then you will need to ensure that you go to an implant dental specialist who is approved by your insurance agency.

5) Financing Options:

Many dental Implants offers their patients various financing options that help them to spread the cost of their dental treatment out.

Doing this although the overall cost will increase in the long run yet it helps to make the treatment a lot more affordable.

6) Travel Further:

On the off chance that there are no alternatives accessible locally, then search away from home for minimal effort implants.

And the off chance that you do choose to make a trip assist away from home to have your implant, recollect to consider any extra travel or settlement costs, in light of the fact that these expenses can wind up being more than the beginning reserve funds.

On the off chance that you choose to travel abroad for your dental implants, ensure that you are careful to choose a well-qualified and respected dentist to carry out the work.

Following the above points helps you to lower the cost of dental implants while availing effective treatment at the same time.

For more details or Free Consultation, visit our Chula Vista or San Diego Dental Implant dentists now.

Stay updated with all the dental tips and procedures by subscribing to our Dental Care Blog today!

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Choosing the Best Dental Implant Option https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/choosing-best-chula-vista-dental-implants/ Tue, 01 Sep 2015 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/choosing-the-best-dental-implant-option/ If you are one of these people, you should definitely consider using dental implants as the most convenient and safest solution. We all know how important dental care is; still, there are many people who are dealing with the loss of permanent teeth or live with teeth that are so damaged that they simply cannot be …

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If you are one of these people, you should definitely consider using dental implants as the most convenient and safest solution.

We all know how important dental care is; still, there are many people who are dealing with the loss of permanent teeth or live with teeth that are so damaged that they simply cannot be fixed.

Why Choose Dental Implants

The fact is that there are dozens of dentists who have already helped many patients with dental implants, but it is also a fact that they are all different.

That’s why you need to check certain things before you choose the dental implant option that is best for you.

Before we go into details, let’s focus on the dental implants, themselves.

This is a surgical procedure that includes the placement of a specially designed metallic post in the jawbone.

After that, the dentist will place a custom-made crown on top of it. This is a surgical procedure, so you must be sure that the dentist you are using has experience in this type of work.

This is a complex procedure that requires precision and a full understanding of the processes as it relates to the teeth, gums, and jawbone.

Choosing the best dental implant dentist

An experienced dentist will certainly have the necessary experience and knowledge to do that.

Keep in mind that there are many certified dentists who can perform this type of procedure, but the certification itself does not mean much in a case where they have not performed this procedure in the past.

Since many people are afraid of dental interventions and some even have serious phobias, it is wise to contact a dentist that provides sedation.

In this way, you can feel perfectly safe and calm while the dentist is performing this complex procedure.

In addition, it is good to know that different dentists require different numbers of visits for this sort of work.

It depends on their knowledge and the technology they use. Feel free to ask them about how long the entire process will take. Of course, you do not want to rush them because it may affect their quality of work.

Another thing that is very important for this procedure is the patient’s ability to undergo this type of operation.

Even though you may be interested in dental implants, you may not be the most suitable candidate.

A good Chula Vista dentist will make a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth before they tell you whether or not you can use dental implants. The main factor is the strength of your jawbone.

Choosing the dental implant options is not very difficult. All you need to do is to follow these tips and you will soon recover your beautiful smile.

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Questions You Should Ask Your Dentist Before Getting Dental Implants https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/questions-you-should-ask-your-dentist-should-tell-you-before-undergoing-a-dental-implant-procedure/ Fri, 29 May 2015 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.lovebitesdentalsandiego.com/questions-you-should-ask-your-dentist-before-getting-dental-implants/ Before getting dental implants it is absolutely important for you to consult your dentist and clarify any sort of doubts you may have so that you can get the best results. A lot of people can have an extreme fear of visiting a dentist. Besides the jarring, whizzing sounds of machines that send chills down …

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Before getting dental implants it is absolutely important for you to consult your dentist and clarify any sort of doubts you may have so that you can get the best results.

A lot of people can have an extreme fear of visiting a dentist.

Besides the jarring, whizzing sounds of machines that send chills down your spine, there are also a million questions that come rushing to your mind when you undergo a procedure, especially if it is a procedure that is going to have visible effects on your teeth and smile.

What you should know before you go into a dental implant procedure

Asking Your Dentists a Few Important Questions is a Must

However, you need to determine what those questions are.

1) First and most importantly, you need to ask them about the type of implants being placed, the material the implants are made of, and whether or not the implants come with some sort of guarantee.

A lot of the time, implants are made of titanium. It is a metal that does not rust and undergoes the process of osseointegration (bone-integration) so that over time it becomes one with the bone in your teeth.

2) The next essential question you need to ask them is the general healing time of such a treatment.

You need to know until when you are potentially going to have to stay on liquid or semi-solid food and when the treated tooth, or teeth, shall attain full recovery.

In most cases, the healing time is between 10-14 days, 14 is the upper limit. During this period, you will have to rely on liquids for nutrition, but after that, you will be able to eat soft foods.

3) You must also inquire who is going to place the implant for you: the general dentist, oral surgeon or a periodontist.

It is essential to inquire about the expertise and experience of the person responsible for your procedure.

Are There Any Risks Involved With The Surgery?

This is important to ask because even though you are in the hands of experts, there are chances that something may go wrong in the surgery, and you need to be aware and prepared for that possibility.

Dental implants are generally considered a safe procedure. The success rate is high, hovering around 90 percent according to some estimates. So, you have little to worry about!

5) You may also ask the dentist to show you “before and after” pictures for the dental implant procedures they have done before.

Dental implants in San Diego

This would help you get a better idea of the work this particular dentist and the team have done before and you can decide whether you want to go ahead with the procedure.

There is no doubt of the fact that dental implants have made way for an entirely new chapter in the field of cosmetic dentistry. However, it is essential that you closely check all aspects of the procedure you are going to receive so that you can have the best results.

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