Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone by the dentist in Agoura Hills, CA, to serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are a crucial component of restorative dentistry, offering a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and aesthetics. Once the implants integrate with the jawbone through osseointegration, prosthetic teeth are attached, resulting in a natural-looking and fully functional smile. Dental implants replicate the appearance and function of natural teeth, prevent bone loss, and preserve oral health in the long term.

Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant used today. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, where they serve as artificial tooth roots. Endosteal implants come in several shapes and sizes, including screw-shaped, cylindrical, and blade implants, allowing for customization to accommodate different bone densities and anatomical considerations. Once integrated with the jawbone through osseointegration, endosteal implants provide a stable foundation for attaching prosthetic teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are an alternative to endosteal implants, particularly for patients with insufficient bone volume in the jaw. Instead of being placed within the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are positioned on top of the jawbone, just beneath the gum tissue. These implants consist of a metal framework that rests on the jawbone and protrudes through the gums, allowing for the attachment of replacement teeth. Subperiosteal implants are often used in cases where bone grafting or augmentation is not feasible or desirable, providing a viable option for restoring missing teeth in compromised anatomical conditions.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Permanent Tooth Replacement

One of the most significant benefits of dental implants is their permanence. Unlike removable dentures or bridges, which may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants provide a stable and durable foundation for replacement teeth by surgically placing titanium posts into the jawbone. This permanence eliminates the inconvenience of removable prosthetics and gives patients confidence and peace of mind, knowing their smile is secure and long-lasting.

Restored Functionality

Dental implants in Agoura Hills, CA, restore the appearance and function of natural teeth. Because implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, they offer unparalleled stability and support for chewing, biting, and speaking. Unlike traditional dentures, which may slip or shift while eating, dental implants allow patients to enjoy their favorite foods confidently. Whether biting into a crisp apple or savoring a juicy steak, implant-supported teeth provide the strength and stability needed for optimal oral function, enabling individuals to maintain a varied and nutritious diet.

Preservation of Jawbone Health

One of the lesser-known benefits of dental implants is their role in preserving jawbone health. When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone deteriorates over time due to lack of stimulation. This bone loss can lead to changes in facial appearance, such as sunken cheeks or a protruding jaw, and increase the risk of further tooth loss. Dental implants mimic the function of natural tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing bone resorption. By preserving jawbone density and structure, implants promote long-term oral health and stability, ensuring a solid dentition foundation.

Enhanced Aesthetics

In addition to their functional benefits, dental implants offer exceptional aesthetic results. The replacement teeth attached to implants are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with the patient's natural smile, matching the surrounding teeth' color, shape, and size. This attention to detail ensures a lifelike appearance virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Whether restoring a single missing tooth or an entire arch, dental implants provide patients with a beautiful and natural-looking smile that boosts confidence and enhances self-esteem. Contact us today!

Improved Oral Health

By replacing missing teeth and preserving jawbone health, dental implants contribute to overall oral health and well-being. Unlike traditional bridges, which require the alteration of adjacent teeth for support, implants do not compromise the integrity of surrounding teeth. This preservation of natural tooth structure reduces the risk of decay, gum disease, and other dental issues, promoting long-term oral health and longevity. Additionally, implant-supported restorations are easier to clean and maintain than removable prosthetics, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking optimal oral hygiene and convenience.

The Dental Implant Procedure

The first phase of the dental implant procedure begins with a comprehensive examination and assessment to determine the patient's suitability for implants. If the patient is deemed a candidate, the dentist at Hilltop Dental by Dr. George Apelian will proceed with the surgical placement of the implant. During this procedure, the dentist will surgically insert a titanium post into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. This post serves as an artificial tooth root and provides a stable foundation for the prosthetic tooth. After placement, the implant is left to integrate with the surrounding bone through osseointegration, which typically takes several months.

Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the second phase of the procedure involves attaching the prosthetic tooth or teeth to the implant. This process begins with the dentist taking impressions or digital scans of the patient's mouth to create a custom-made restoration that matches the natural teeth' color, shape, and size. The prosthetic tooth, which may be a crown, bridge, or denture, is then securely attached to the implant using an abutment connector. The dentist will ensure proper alignment, bite, and aesthetics before finalizing the attachment. Once in place, the prosthetic tooth appears like a natural tooth, allowing the patient to chew, bite, and smile confidently.

If you're missing one or more teeth and seeking a long-term solution for restoring your smile, visit Hilltop Dental by Dr. George Apelian at 30300 Agoura Road, Ste. 230, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, or call (818) 865-8651 to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.