How Successful are Dental Implants?

Written by Scripps West Dental

How Successful are Dental Implants?

Are you considering dental implants but wondering about their success rate? At Scripps West Dental in Mira Mesa, CA, we understand that choosing the right tooth replacement option is a significant decision. Dr. Tasto, our expert dentist in Mira Mesa, CA, is here to guide you through dental implants and help you understand their remarkable success rate.

What are Dental Implants?

Before discussing success rates, let’s briefly explain dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the bone, usually made of titanium. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.

Success Rates of Dental Implants

When it comes to dental implants in Mira Mesa, CA, the success rates are impressively high. According to numerous studies, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%, which is why they have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.

Several factors contribute to this high success rate:

Biocompatibility: Titanium, the material used for implants, is biocompatible, meaning it integrates well with human bone.
Durability: Implants are designed to last for many years, often a lifetime, with proper care.
Functionality: Dental implants function just like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Getting Dental Implants in Mira Mesa, CA

The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps:

  1. Consultation: During your initial consultation, the dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals for treatment.
  2. Implant placement: In this stage, the titanium implant posts are surgically placed into the bone.
  3. Healing process: It takes several months for the implant post to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue fully. This healing period is crucial for the implant’s long-term success.
  4. Abutment placement: Once the implant has fully healed, an abutment will be placed on the implant post. This serves as a connector between the implant and the dental crown.
  5. Crown placement: The final step is placing a custom-made dental crown on top of the abutment. The crown is designed to match your natural teeth in color, size, and shape for a seamless appearance.

Who is Eligible For Dental Implants?

While dental implants are suitable for many patients, only some are ideal candidates. Dr. Tasto, our expert dentist in Mira Mesa, CA, will assess your eligibility based on several factors:

Adequate bone density: Your bone needs to be strong enough to support the implant.
Good oral health: Healthy gums free of periodontal disease are crucial.
Overall health: Certain medical conditions may affect your ability to heal after surgery.
Non-smoker: Smoking can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants.

How to Care For Dental Implants

Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity of your dental implants. Here are some tips:

  1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss at least once a day.
  2. Regular dental check-ups: Visit Scripps West Dental for routine cleanings and examinations.
  3. Avoid hard foods: Be cautious with very hard or sticky foods that could damage your implants.
  4. Quit smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting to improve implant success and overall oral health.

Complications of Dental Implants

While dental implants in Mira Mesa, CA, have a high success rate, it’s important to be aware of potential complications:

Infection

Although rare, infection can occur after implant surgery. Following post-operative care instructions carefully can minimize this risk.

Tissue or Nerve Damage

In some cases, surrounding tissues or nerves may be damaged during implant placement. Dr. Tasto’s expertise and careful planning help minimize this risk.

Peri-Implantitis

This inflammatory condition affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding dental implants. Regular dental check-ups can help catch and treat this condition early.

It’s worth noting that these complications are relatively rare, and most patients experience successful outcomes with their dental implants.

The Scripps West Dental Difference

At Scripps West Dental, Dr. Tasto brings years of experience and a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in implant dentistry. We use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure our patients’ highest possible success rates.

Restore Your Smile Today

Are you ready to experience the life-changing benefits of dental implants? Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Contact Scripps West Dental today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tasto, your trusted expert in dental implants in Mira Mesa, CA. Let us help you regain your confidence and achieve the beautiful smile you deserve!

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