Dental Implants in San Francisco
Missing one or several teeth affects more than just your appearance. If you are missing teeth, you might experience other functional and health problems as a result. Maybe you feel so self-conscious that you avoid looking people in the eye, or you cover your mouth with your hand while speaking. The embarrassment caused by your missing tooth might prevent you from looking for work or a relationship. You might not be getting the nutrition you need because you can’t chew your food properly. Or, perhaps your remaining teeth are suffering and you have developed serious dental problems. Simply put, missing teeth can affect your looks, health and quality of life.
One of the best ways to replace missing teeth is with dental implants. Implants are strong, durable restorations that recreate the look, feel and function of a natural tooth. Individuals seeking dental implants in San Francisco trust dentist Samir Ayoub for his experience and special expertise. Dr. Ayoub has helped transform many patients’ smiles and improved their oral health, thanks to dental implants.
Improved Oral Health and Appearance Through Implant Dentistry
Dental implants are beneficial for many reasons. First, by filling the gap left by a missing tooth, implants recreate the look of a complete, healthy smile. You will be able to smile and speak without worrying about noticeable gaps between your teeth. Implants won’t slip or shift around in your mouth. Since they are standalone tooth replacements, they don’t rely on the surrounding teeth for support. Functionally, implants restore normal chewing ability, so you can enjoy your favorite foods.
Health-wise, implants are a smart choice. Since implant posts are placed in the jawbone, they keep it stimulated to prevent bone shrinkage and the collapse of the facial structures. Filling the gaps left by missing teeth prevents the surrounding teeth from drifting into the space. Filling these gaps also reduces the risk of gum disease and other dental problems caused by missing teeth and spaces between the teeth.
Dental Implants Candidates
Candidacy for dental implants is determined on a case-by-case basis with Dr. Ayoub. You may be a suitable candidate for implants if you:
- Are in good general health
- Find dentures uncomfortable
- Have enough jawbone to support the implant(s)
- Do not smoke
- Do not suffer from a chronic illness that could impede the healing process
- Are committed to caring for your implant with the proper oral hygiene habits
Types of Implants
Implants are designed to replace a tooth and its root. They can replace one tooth, several teeth or all of the teeth in the lower and/or upper jaw.
Single-tooth implant
Consists of a dental crown attached to a titanium post; the post is placed in the jawbone and the dental crown sits on top of the gums.
Implant-supported bridge
Replaces several teeth. This device replaces all of the missing teeth and some of the tooth roots, and does not require the support of natural surrounding teeth. Two single implants support a false tooth in the middle.
Implant-supported dentures
Replaces an entire arch of teeth in the lower and/or upper jaw. The denture is attached to several implant posts placed in the jaw.
The Placement Process
Your implant treatment will be carefully planned out. First, Dr. Ayoub will examine your mouth and determine the number and location of implants needed. He will take measurements and impressions to send to the dental laboratory crafting your replacement teeth. Your replacement teeth will be custom-fabricated to match your natural teeth in size, shape and color. It takes some time to create the implants, so temporary replacements may be used.
The titanium implant posts will be placed in the jawbone during an oral surgery procedure. It takes several months for the implants to integrate with the bone (this process is called osseointegration); during this time, a temporary tooth replacement may be placed. When the implant is completely integrated with the bone, the permanent crown, bridge or denture device is attached to the top of the posts.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
It may take some time to adjust to your implants and replacement teeth, but with the proper care they can last for many years. For some people, implants last a lifetime.
Treat your implants similar to the way you do natural teeth. While they cannot develop cavities, they are susceptible to normal wear and tear. It is important to brush and floss your implants daily. You should also schedule periodic dental visits so Dr. Ayoub can monitor your teeth. He may suggest additional cleansing aids to help you keep your implants and natural teeth healthy.
Dental Implants FAQs
What are dental implants made of?
Dental implants are composed of a biocompatible titanium post or screw that acts as a tooth root placed in the jawbone. The post is attached to a crown, bridge or denture that sits on top of the gums.
Why is a dental implant better than bridges or dentures?
Since implants are placed in the jawbone, they are stronger and more reliable than bridges and dentures. They are not removable and will not shift around in your mouth like dentures. Implants also offer additional health benefits: they keep the jawbone stimulated to prevent the bone from shrinking and the facial structures from collapsing.
Does the placement of dental implants hurt?
Implants are placed during an oral surgery procedure, and anesthesia is administered so you will not feel any pain.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies, depending on the type and number of implants needed. For more specific pricing, please contact our office and request a consultation.
How long will my dental implant last?
Implants are strong and durable. With the proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime.
Contact Our San Francisco Dentist
If you would like to learn more about dental implants and their benefits, please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ayoub. Call us today at (415) 781-2227 to make an appointment.
