Nowadays, we are fortunate to keep most of our teeth. However, if a tooth is lost, dental implants are a common and excellent permanent solution. It can take as little as twelve weeks to replace a missing tooth! Keep reading to learn more about dental implants and their benefits.
What Are Dental Implants in Los Gatos?
Dental implants can be used to replace one or multiple teeth. A dental implant in Los Gatos has three parts:
- The dental implant screw (implant fixture)
- The implant crown
- The connector (abutment)
The implant fixture is made of strong, medical-grade titanium, which integrates with the jawbone and is hidden under the gums. The implant crown is the artificial tooth that sits above the gums and is connected to the implant fixture by the abutment.
How Can Dental Implants Improve My Smile?
If you or a loved one have missing teeth, here are some reasons why dental implants can help:
- Improved Chewing Ability — Missing teeth can make it difficult to break down food into smaller portions to swallow. Dental implants can help you regain your chewing ability so you can enjoy a healthy diet.
- Prevention of Adjacent Teeth Breaking—Missing teeth force the adjacent teeth to take on more chewing forces, which may eventually cause those teeth to chip or fracture. Dental implants, replacing the empty space, will redistribute the forces evenly for a stable bite.
- Prevention of Bone Loss — When teeth are missing, the jawbone starts to resorb and weaken. This can lead to facial changes, gum recession, and tooth mobility. Dental implants help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
- Prevention of Tooth Mobility — When a tooth is missing, the neighboring teeth shift their position, which changes your bite. Dental implants keep teeth in their original position.
- Improved Appearance — Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. Dental implants blend in and look like natural teeth so that you can smile confidently.
We Welcome New Patients!
Dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life functionally, medically, and cosmetically. Our team can help determine if dental implants are a good option for you.
Our dental office is accepting new patients! Please feel free to call us Monday through Thursday, 9 AM–5 PM, with any questions or to schedule an appointment.