Implants are one of the most exciting advances in dental technology. They recreate the look, feel and function of a natural tooth. Implants are also extremely versatile; they can be placed as a single stand-alone tooth replacement with a crown or used to replace multiple teeth by anchoring a dental bridge or partial or full set of dentures.
The success and longevity of a dental implant hinges on the dentist that places it. Individuals looking for beautiful, strong and long-lasting dental implants in Palo Alto trust the team at Kris Hamamoto D.D.S & Associates.
Why You Should Consider Replacing a Missing Tooth with a Dental Implant
First and foremost, dental implants recreate the look and feel of a natural, healthy tooth. They act just like natural teeth. Thanks to your implant, you won’t have any embarrassing gaps in your mouth or experience problems chewing or biting down.
Next, consider that dental implants promote good oral health. They prevent the remaining teeth from shifting around in the mouth and drifting into the gap. They don’t require the surrounding teeth to be filed in order to make space. Implants are easy to brush and floss around. They also keep the jawbone stimulated and thriving. This helps preserve normal bone structure and facial appearance. An implant is the next best thing to a healthy tooth!
Dental Implant Placement Overview
Dental implant treatment usually requires two or more appointments to complete over a period of several months. A detailed planning process takes place and involves obtaining photographs, X-rays and other records of the mouth and jaw. This information is used to determine the number of implants that are needed and where they will be placed.
Dr. Hamamoto and her team of Palo Alto dental implant dentists will carefully plan out your entire scope of treatment ahead of time so you know what is happening at each appointment. Sometimes bone grafting oral surgery is necessary prior to placing dental implants.
During the first appointment, one of our dentists or an oral surgeon will create an incision in the gum tissue to reveal the jawbone underneath the space. The dentist or oral surgeon will create an opening in the jawbone and insert the dental implant post. After the post (which may resemble a screw) is in place, it is left to heal for about three to six months or more. During this process, which is called osseointegration, the implant bonds with the jawbone and becomes part of its anatomy so it can later support an artificial tooth.
Once the implant post has healed, the second appointment takes place. The dentist will uncover the top of the implant post and screw on an attachment piece called an abutment. The crown, bridge or denture prosthesis will be attached to the abutment. Any final adjustments can be made as needed for a seamless finish.
Expertly placed implants can last indefinitely with the proper care. Clinical studies show implants have a very high success rate when brushed and flossed daily and checked by a dentist every six months to a year.
Schedule a Dental Implants Consultation
If you would like to learn more about replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants, Palo Alto dentist Kris Hamamoto and her talented team invite you to book an informational consultation. Call or email us today to schedule your appointment.
