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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
What are dental implants? How do they work?
Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth by recreating both the root and the visible tooth. A small post is positioned within the jawbone, where it gradually becomes anchored as the bone heals around it. Once stable, the implant supports a custom restoration such as a crown, bridge, or full-arch prosthesis. This structure allows implants to function much like natural teeth while providing strong, dependable support.
Why should I consider dental implants over other tooth replacement options?
Dental implants offer exceptional stability and durability compared to removable or traditional fixed options. By interacting directly with the jawbone, implants help preserve bone structure and facial contours over time. Many patients find that speaking and eating feel more natural due to the secure foundation implants provide. While implants require planning and healing time, their long-term benefits often outweigh those considerations.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Candidates typically have healthy gums and sufficient bone to support implant placement, though additional procedures may be needed to prepare the area. Tooth loss from decay, injury, or gum disease does not automatically prevent implant treatment. A comprehensive evaluation by a prosthodontist determines suitability and explores options for complex cases. Many patients who assume they are not candidates are pleasantly surprised by available solutions.
What is the process for getting dental implants at Pasadena Prosthodontics?
Treatment begins with a detailed consultation and examination to evaluate oral health and discuss goals. A customized plan is then created, outlining implant placement and the restoration type best suited to your needs. After the implant is placed, time is allowed for healing before the final restoration is secured. Throughout the process, comfort and precision remain top priorities.
How long do dental implants last? How should I care for them?
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades. Daily brushing and flossing, along with routine dental visits, help maintain the health of surrounding tissues. Implants are cared for much like natural teeth, though professional monitoring ensures long-term success. Following your dental team’s individualized recommendations helps protect your investment.
Are dental implants safe? What are the risks involved?
Dental implants have been used successfully for many years and continue to benefit from advances in materials and techniques. While risks such as infection or implant failure exist, they are uncommon when treatment is carefully planned and maintained. Choosing an experienced prosthodontist and following aftercare instructions significantly reduces complications. Thorough evaluation helps identify and manage potential concerns early.
How much do dental implants cost? Are they covered by insurance?
Costs vary depending on the number of implants placed and the type of restoration required. Some insurance plans may cover certain aspects of treatment, though coverage varies widely. A personalized consultation provides a clear estimate and a discussion of benefits. Financing options may also be available to help make care more accessible.
Can dental implants replace more than one missing tooth?
Yes. Implants can support single crowns, multi-tooth bridges, or full-arch restorations. Strategic placement allows several teeth to be replaced without placing an implant for each missing tooth. This flexibility makes implants suitable for a wide range of tooth-loss situations.
Will dental implants look and feel natural?
Implant restorations are custom-designed to match surrounding teeth in shape, color, and function. Because implants are firmly anchored, they feel stable during daily activities. Many patients report forgetting which tooth was replaced once treatment is complete.
How do dental implants improve long-term oral health?
Replacing missing teeth helps maintain bite balance and prevents the shifting of remaining teeth. By supporting bone and restoring function, implants reduce strain on neighboring teeth and restorations. This contributes to better oral stability and comfort over time.
Call Pasadena Prosthodontics and General Dentistry in Pasadena, CA at 855.770.3737 to find out if dental implants are right for you.
