Dental implants are truly a miracle of modern dentistry, supporting functional bite, maintaining healthy facial bone, and restoring a natural-looking smile. Dr. Baldwin Marchack and Dr. Christopher Marchack encourage anyone with missing teeth to schedule a consultation at their Pasadena, CA office to learn more about dental implants.
Essential implant information
Each natural tooth has roots that reach into the jawbone for the stability necessary to withstand bite force. A dental implant mimics that function, with an artificial root made of a strong, biocompatible material. Osseointegration (bone fusing with the implant) creates a solid foundation for a dental restoration. Like a natural root, the implant provides vital stimulation to preserve bone, for a youthful facial appearance.
A dental implant is conservative – there is no impact to adjacent healthy teeth. It is meticulously placed during a brief, well-planned oral surgery. Only a small soft tissue incision is necessary, and usually just local numbing is sufficient.
It is a common misconception that dental implants are a new or untested procedure. Mankind has experimented with the technique for more than 4,000 years. Modern implantology became part of mainstream dentistry in this country in the early 1980s, largely due to the work of Swedish orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark, a personal friend of the Drs. Marchack. Today, no other dental procedure has been the subject of more studies, backing the success rate and longevity of dental implants.
All about dental implants at Pasadena Prosthodontics explained by Dr. Christopher Marchack
What is a dental implant?
Here at Pasadena Prosthodontics, we do dental implants. A dental implant is a device placed into a patient that replaces teeth that acts and feels like a tooth.
What is the role of a dental implant?
It can replace one missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or even all missing teeth to replace a complete denture. Patients who have dentures can go back to function with dental implants and have the ability to eat and chew as they did before.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants have been a great benefit for all of our patients with missing teeth. It allows them to clean their teeth like their natural teeth and be able to think of it as a tooth rather than a prosthesis.
Versatile technique
A dental implant is the go-to replacement option for a single missing tooth. However, there are multiple applications for implants:
- Replace several teeth at various locations in the mouth, or even an entire arch.
- Affix a dental bridge. With this technique, a span of up to five consecutive teeth can be replaced with just two implants.
- Hold a full denture in place. As few as four specially-designed and strategically placed implants, provide a much higher level of stabilization than can be achieved with even the best-fitting floating denture. Implants provide support for back teeth dramatically improving chewing function.
Dental Implants FAQs
What exactly is a dental implant?
Who is an ideal candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with good overall health and one or more missing teeth can be considered for dental implants. Healthy gums and adequate bone structure are important for long-term success. Patients who have lost bone may still qualify after bone grafting or other preparatory procedures.
What does the treatment process involve?
The journey begins with a comprehensive consultation and imaging. The implant is then placed into the jawbone during a short surgical visit. Healing takes a few months, during which the implant integrates with the bone. Once this process is complete, a small connector is added, and finally, a custom restoration is placed to complete the smile.
How long does it take to finish the entire procedure?
Timing varies depending on the patient’s needs. The full process takes several months in many cases because the bone must heal around the implant. However, once complete, the result is long-lasting and durable. Some patients may qualify for immediate-load options, though healing time is still important for stability.
What are the advantages of implants compared to bridges or dentures?
Unlike removable dentures, implants do not slip out of place and do not require adhesives. Unlike bridges, implants do not require the alteration of nearby healthy teeth. They also stimulate the jawbone, which helps prevent bone loss and facial changes over time. Many patients appreciate how natural they feel when speaking, eating, and smiling.
Are there any downsides or risks to dental implants?
Dental implant surgery is very safe when performed by a skilled prosthodontist, but as with any procedure, there are possible complications. Infection, delayed healing, or implant loosening can occur in some cases. Patients who smoke or who have certain health conditions may face additional challenges, but most concerns can be managed with careful planning.
How reliable are dental implants?
Implants are one of the most predictable treatments in dentistry, with success rates above 90 percent in healthy patients. Choosing a provider with extensive training, such as Dr. Marchack, further increases the chance of a smooth and lasting outcome. With proper care, many implants remain in place for decades.
How should I take care of my implants once they are in place?
Caring for an implant is very similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are essential, and regular check-ups allow the dentist to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding gums. Special cleaning tools may be recommended to make hygiene easier around implant-supported bridges or dentures.
Can a dental implant ever fail?
Although rare, implant failure can occur. Common causes include infection of the gum tissue around the implant, poor bone support, or damage from teeth grinding. In many situations, early intervention can save the implant. If replacement is necessary, placing another implant once the area has healed is usually possible.
What will my treatment cost, and does insurance cover it?
Costs vary depending on the number of implants, the type of restoration, and whether additional procedures are required. While some insurance plans may provide partial coverage, many patients use financing options to make treatment more affordable. During your consultation, Dr. Marchack’s team will outline all fees clearly so you can make an informed decision.
Call Pasadena Prosthodontics and General Dentistry in Pasadena, CA at 855.770.3737 to find out if dental implants are right for you.
