Dental implants are a popular solution for missing teeth, and at Wynning Smiles in Huntington Beach, Dr. Wynn Shang is dedicated to providing our patients with the best care and the most advanced treatment options available. Before your first consultation, you’ll want to understand what dental implants are, who is a good candidate for them, and the benefits they have to offer.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the bone that serves as the artificial “root” for your new replacement “tooth.” Once your implant integrates or fuses with the bone around it, a crown is then placed on top of the implant to restore the visible, functional part of your prosthesis. The implant and the crown work together to create a natural-looking, fully functioning artificial tooth.
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, and they can be used to replace one, several, or all of your teeth at one time. Best of all, they’re hypoallergenic and just as strong as natural teeth.
Are You Fit For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great solution for many people, but not everyone is a good candidate for the implant procedure. The best candidates for dental implants are those who have good oral health, including enough bone structure to support the implant, and healthy gums (no periodontal disease.)
If you are a smoker or have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, you may not be a good candidate for dental implants. During your consultation with Dr. Wynn Shang, he will evaluate your oral health and tissues, then discuss whether dental implants are the right option for you. If they aren’t, we can provide alternative tooth replacements that may be a better fit for your situation.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits, including:
- A natural-looking, fully functioning tooth
- Improved oral health and support to your neighboring teeth
- Improved speech
- Restored ability to chew and eat normally
- Improved self-esteem
- Long-lasting solution for missing teeth
Types of Dental Implants
Depending on your oral health needs and anatomy, different types of dental implant designs are available. Some of the most common types of dental implants include:
Endosteal Implants: These are the most common type of dental implant and are placed directly into the jawbone. They are made from titanium, which is naturally attractive to bone tissues, allowing them to become a permanent part of your smile once they’re installed.
Subperiosteal Implants: These more complex implants are placed on top of the jawbone and are used for people who do not have enough jawbone to support an endosteal implant. They are much less common than traditional implants.
Mini Implants: These are smaller than traditional dental implants and are used to support smaller replacement teeth or a set of removable snap-on dentures when the bone is lacking.
Zygomatic Implants: Zygomatic implant designs are much longer than traditional implants, allowing them to be placed at an angle, extending toward the cheekbone to restore the missing upper teeth.
FAQs About Dental Implants
Q: How long do dental implants last?
A: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Q: How much do dental implants cost?
A: The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the number of implants needed and the type of implant you’re getting. During your consultation with Dr. Shang, we will provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost of your treatment.
Q: Are dental implants painful?
A: Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, and any pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Call for a Consultation
If you’re missing one or more teeth and are interested in learning more about dental implants in Huntington Beach, don’t hesitate to contact our office. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Wynn Shang, he will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with dental implants.