Missing teeth are more common than you may imagine; according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69 percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth. What’s more, 26 percent of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth by the time they turn 74. Losing a permanent tooth requires a permanent solution: dental implants. Dr. Abadan is pleased to offer dental implants treatment to her Carmel Valley and San Diego dentistry patients.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are mainly composed of 3 parts. A titanium piece that is surgically placed in the jaw bone and when integrate with the bone will be the root of the implant tooth. This piece is called the “implant”. The next part is the abutment. Abutment goes on top of the implant and will be above the gum to hold the crown. The third part is the laboratory fabricated crown that will be cemented to the abutment and this complete an implant tooth.

How Implants Can Improve Your Smile

Missing teeth can detract from an otherwise beautiful smile, and cause you to feel embarrassed or self-conscious around others. Dental implants literally close the gap left by a missing tooth, making it easier to eat, speak and smile. They blend in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth to restore uniformity and symmetry to your smile. Simply put, dental implants relieve the inconvenience of missing teeth.

What to Expect During Dental Implant Treatment

Dental implant treatment is performed in stages. From start to finish, the treatment process may take up to six to eight months, depending on your case.

Osseointegration

After the implant post is surgically placed in the jawbone, it must take time to heal. Over a period of a few months — called the “osseointegration” stage — the implant post fuses with the bone to provide a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Dr. Abadan continues to work with the oral surgeon to determine when the bone and post have properly integrated and when it is safe to place the artificial tooth.

The Implant Restoration Stage

During the final stage of dental implant treatment, Dr. Abadan places and restores the artificial tooth. During the oral surgery, a temporary tooth restoration is placed to cover the top of the post and enable you to chew and speak normally while the post heals. However, after the post has adequately healed, the temporary tooth restoration is replaced with the permanent restoration. The specific type of tooth restoration that Dr. Abadan uses depends on your particular case and needs. Options include porcelain crowns, bridges and partial / full dentures.

After placing the permanent restoration, Dr. Abadan will carefully check for proper fit to ensure that the restoration stays firmly and comfortably in place. She will also examine your bite to make sure that it’s properly aligned. She will make any necessary small adjustments for fit before polishing the new restoration and sending you on your way.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer cosmetic and functional benefits. Appearance-wise, they are beautiful and natural. No one will be able to distinguish your implant from your natural teeth. Dr. Abadan carefully matches the tooth restoration to your surrounding teeth so the color, size and shape are consistent.

Securely anchored to the jawbone, implants will not slip or slide around in the mouth as other tooth restorations can be known to do. Implants are easy to clean by simply brushing and flossing normally. They also make it easy to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions.

Dental implants are great not only for your smile’s appearance, but also for your oral health. By replacing not only the tooth but the tooth’s root, implants keep the jawbone underneath the missing tooth stimulated and prevent it from deteriorating due to lack of use.

When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. Imagine enjoying your beautiful restored smile and no longer having to worry about a pesky gap between your teeth.

Determine Whether You’re a Dental Implants Candidate

Are you seeking a reliable, long-lasting tooth replacement? Contact Dr. Abadan today at 858-350-7400 and inquire about dental implants. Ask one of our friendly staff members to set up a consultation with Dr. Abadan to discuss whether you are a candidate for implants.