Missing a tooth doesn't have to mean you have to hide your smile for the rest of your life. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. Nearly 3 million Americans already have dental implants, and around half a million more get implants each year. This remarkable growth is thanks to how well tolerated this procedure is and how satisfied those who choose implant dentistry are with their results.
Whether you're considering implants for yourself or just curious about modern dental solutions from the best dental implant dentists in Los Gatos, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this life-changing restorative dental treatment.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that consist of three main parts:
- The implant: A small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it acts like an artificial tooth root.
- The abutment: A connector piece that attaches to the implant once it has fused with the bone.
- The crown: The visible, tooth-colored portion that is custom-made to match your existing teeth and attach to the abutment.
Unlike removable dentures or dental bridges, dental implants function remarkably similar to natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They also work to distribute biting forces throughout the jawbone just as natural teeth do, which helps prevent bone loss.
Most people can't tell the difference between dental implants and natural teeth, as they're designed to look completely natural while providing the same stability and functionality.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a long-term investment, and the best way to ensure their longevity is by making sure you’re an ideal candidate first and taking good care of them once they’re placed. Good candidates for dental implants are those with:
- Good overall health, as certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease may affect healing.
- Adequate bone density in the jaw to support the implant fixture. Because without enough bone, a grafting procedure might be necessary before implant placement.
- Healthy gums that are free from periodontal disease, since infected gums can compromise the implant's success.
- While there's no upper age limit for dental implants, dentists generally wait until young patients have completed jaw growth, usually around age 18.
- A non-smoker, as smoking significantly reduces implant success rates.
Additionally, those who regularly drink alcohol, take certain medications like bisphosphonates, or have a habit of grinding or clenching teeth should have a detailed conversation with their restorative dentist before deciding if dental implants are the right choice for replacing missing teeth.
The Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect
The dental implant journey begins with an initial consultation, during which a restorative dentist evaluates your oral health, takes dental X-rays, and creates a treatment plan based on your specific needs.
- During implant placement, which is typically a one- to two-hour procedure for each tooth, the dentist surgically positions the titanium post into your jawbone under local anesthesia. Dental sedation options are also available for anxious patients. You'll feel pressure but minimal pain during the procedure.
- Following placement comes the healing period, known as osseointegration, when the implant fuses with your jawbone. This typically takes three to six months. During this time, you may receive a temporary crown to maintain a complete-looking smile.
- Once healing is complete, you'll return for the abutment placement, which requires a minor procedure and about two weeks of gum healing.
- Finally, your dentist attaches your custom-made permanent crown.
From start to finish, the entire process usually spans around six to nine months, though timelines vary based on individual healing rates and whether additional procedures like bone grafting are needed. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than expected and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Benefits and Risks of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer remarkable benefits, including exceptional durability. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, unlike bridges or dentures, which typically need replacement every five to ten years. Implants also significantly improve oral health by preventing bone loss in the jaw and eliminating the need to alter adjacent teeth, which is common with traditional bridges. Aesthetically, implants look and function like natural teeth, restoring confidence in your smile and speech.
However, like any surgical procedure, implants come with potential risks. Complications can include infection at the implant site, damage to surrounding structures, nerve damage causing pain or numbness, and sinus problems when implants are placed in the upper jaw that extend into sinus cavities. Despite these rare complications, success rates for dental implants exceed 95% for healthy patients but drop significantly for smokers and those with certain health conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Proper care for your dental implants is essential for their success and longevity. Caring for your implants begins immediately after their placement, with gentle salt water rinses and the avoidance of hard, crunchy foods for the first week. The best dental implant dentist in Los Gatos may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort.
For long-term care, you should treat implants like natural teeth by consistently brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and low-abrasive toothpaste. The best cosmetic dentist in Los Gatos recommends that daily flossing around implants is crucial to keeping the gum line healthy and able to adequately support the implant. Water flossers provide an excellent option for cleaning around implants.
Regular professional cleanings every six months allow your dentist to check implant stability and remove plaque buildup. You should avoid habits that can damage implants, such as chewing ice, opening packages with your teeth, or using tobacco products. With diligent care, dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime, making them one of the best investments you can make for your oral health.
Finding the Best Dental Implants in Los Gatos
At Smiles Los Gatos, we take pride in offering a thoughtful, patient-focused approach to dental implant care. Dr. Bliss Zin and Dr. Alyssa Takeda bring a blend of advanced training, clinical precision, and genuine compassion to every treatment plan, ensuring your experience is as comfortable and personalized as possible.
Our team is known for creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients of all ages feel at ease. We’re equipped to handle everything from simple to complex restorative cases under one roof. So, whether you’re just beginning to explore dental implants or ready to move forward, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with clear communication and exceptional care.
Ready to smile with confidence with the best dental implants in Los Gatos?