The Benefits of Dental Implants in Orange County

1. Introduction

Increased comfort is a great benefit of the dental implants in Orange County. Since they are basically an artificial root to your tooth, there is a chance that they can be much more cozy than a typical pair of dentures. They act the same as one of your real teeth, so there is hardly a change in comfort. Many patients that have received implants have said that it is much less painful than tooth extractions. Usually, the only thing that is required in an extraction-like process is the initial removal of the tooth and then the placing of the implant. This can not only be less painful in the actual process but easier on your gums and jaw since the pressure from extractions can weaken them. Another thing is increased comfort with your looks. Implants provide a great way to replace some teeth that may have been lost for quite some time. Prolonged durations of missing teeth can actually change the shape of your face and cause possible other health issues. With dental implants, it is a surefire way to make your looks top-notch and it can be beneficial to your overall health.

There are a number of things in life that can result in a beautiful, delightful smile being taken away from you. Anywhere from a blow to the face to severe tooth decay, gum disease, and also the usual aging process can lead to the loss of teeth. When you are searching for a change or if you simply need to make a good change, then Orange County dental implants are literally the best bet for you. With the revolutionary technology of implants, you can now replace an individual or multiple teeth, providing you with a great deal of comfort and an awesome smile that will certainly give you back your confidence.

2. Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants are built to last, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. This is a major advantage compared to dental bridges, which last only between 5-10 years, or removable dentures, which are often lost and need to be replaced several times throughout one’s life. Implants are the closest thing to natural teeth and can help preserve the jawbone by reducing the load on the remaining oral structures/teeth and preserving natural tooth tissue. Implant-supported replacement teeth are like real teeth, so they require the same care. This involves brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. If damaged, the implant can be repaired more easily than a bridge and better than a denture. It is well known that the cost of an implant is substantial. Luckily for those concerned, dental coverage can be applicable depending on a patient’s insurance policy and medical status. Though the initial cost is greater, choosing dental implants will prove to be more cost-effective in the long term. Oftentimes, people have to replace their dentures and bridges several times due to damage, loss, or decay, whereas dental implants are a one-time, out-of-pocket cost. With proper care and good oral hygiene, it’s a lifelong solution to a very prevalent problem. The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. Initially, the placement of dental implants is slightly less than 95%, but with proper care and maintenance, they can have a success rate of up to 98%.

2.1. Improved Oral Health

One way dental implants improve oral health is that adjacent teeth are not damaged to support the implant as would be a bridge. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Periodic adjustments may be needed, but well-cared-for implants can last a very long time.

Dental implants are a great advancement in technology as far as replacement of teeth is concerned, but they are not for everyone. Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones. Dental implants can be of great benefit to those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, injury, or some other reason.

2.2. Enhanced Appearance and Confidence

For some, dental implants are the last step to attaining the perfect smile. Missing teeth can make a person self-conscious, and even the most confident of individuals can become uncomfortable with the appearance of their smile. Whether you are missing one tooth or many, dental implants can provide a natural-looking solution to an aesthetic problem. The result is a new appearance that will look and feel very natural. Implant-supported replacement teeth will function, feel, and look like natural teeth. And best of all, dental implants often improve the patient’s overall quality of life. With a new sense of confidence, many people rediscover the excitement to participate in social activities that they’ve been missing out on. This newfound confidence can lead to better interactions with others and a further increase in one’s overall well-being.

2.3. Restored Functionality

The dental implant system has made a leap in technology from the old crown and bridge system. Dental implants will restore the natural function of teeth as well as provide a stable foundation for chewing and talking. The crown and bridge system only has about a seven to ten year life span, whereas the dental implant system has a success rate of more than 95 percent and with good care can last a lifetime. Dental implants are designed to simulate the root of a tooth. The implants are anchored into the jaw and are not reliant on the neighboring teeth for support. Implants can restore a patient’s ability to properly chew their food. A study in the Compendium for Continuing Education in Dentistry evaluated patients with bilateral chewing cycle pattern implant supported fixed prostheses and patients with complete removable dentures. Bite forces were measured on the molar and incisor teeth on both sides. The patients with fixed prostheses had a much higher biting force than those with removable dentures. In all patients, the biting force with the fixed prostheses on the molar teeth was very close to that on the natural teeth. The conclusion of this study indicated that patients who had implant supported prostheses had similar bite forces to patients with natural teeth. This means that when dental implants are used to support a full arch of teeth, it is almost like having a full set of natural teeth.

3. The Dental Implant Process

The dental implant process has four main steps, the first of which is consultation and treatment planning. At the initial consultation, your dentist will take x-rays or in some cases CT scans to assess the jawbone and in some cases take impressions of the jaw and teeth. (Impressions are not necessary in the case of simple implant treatment.) Throughout the consultation, your dentist will address your specific needs and considerations to help determine whether you are a candidate for dental implants, and if so, what the best treatment plan is. Depending on your specific condition and the dentist’s expertise, a treatment plan will be formulated to address your needs. With the recent advance in dental technology, some dentists are now able to perform 3D virtual surgical plans to optimize the placement and the esthetic outcome of the implant. This also allows for the fabrication of a surgical stent or “guide” to be fabricated to ensure the ideal placement and angulation of the implant. Estimated success rates for guided implant placements are between 95-97%. This is an increase from the previous estimated success rate of 85%. Due to the higher predictability, patients can now have more confidence in treatment outcomes. Success rates are very dependent on the experience and expertise of the dentist. Therefore, it is very important to select a dentist based on their training, experience, and knowledge. Remember that a poor outcome can increase the need for further treatment and expense. So in these cases, the old adage “you get what you pay for” is very true.

3.1. Consultation and Treatment Planning

Different finders demonstrate DIP involvement at different stages in their careers. Last year dental students thinking about learning implants, general dental practitioners considering a change to implant dentistry, and postgraduate students following various curriculums, may find it an early introduction to implant terminology. More experienced practitioners and specialists will find the list useful to guide patients through complex treatment plans and aid multidisciplinary team collaboration.

Consultation and diagnosis patterns may vary. At the initial visit the dentist will make a thorough examination. This may include taking a series of x-rays or a CT scan to aid in treatment planning. CT scans are helpful in providing information about the quantity and quality of bone, and to determine the location of anatomical structures which may be in proximity to the intended implant site e.g. the mandibular nerve in the lower jaw. Step-by-step the dentist develops a SOAP list which includes: Subjective findings (e.g. patient chief complaint), Objective findings (measurable findings from various tests e.g. mobility of a tooth), Assessment findings and the Plan.

A well-thought-out treatment plan is a must for successful dental implant. The critical factor in the treatment is the patient. The patient’s general and oral health must be assessed. Special medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer or radiation to the jaws, alcoholism, smoking, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease may interfere with healing and success of the implant. These should be discussed with your dental implant team. Ideally, your team will collaborate and combine the skills of both a restorative dentist who will design and fit the replacement teeth or crowns, and a surgical specialist (periodontist or oral surgeon). Implementation of the treatment plan depends upon several factors, for example, whether or not the patient has a healthy tooth to be used for a single tooth replacement. If a tooth requires extraction, the socket may be grafted with bone to rebuild the site. More complex situations may be temporary placement of a crown on the implant incorporating esthetics and occlusal (bite) function, immediate post extraction implants, and immediate load function with a transitional or permanent prosthesis.

3.2. Implant Placement

It is important that these candidates have enough bone in the area of the missing teeth. The gum tissue must also be healthy and free of any periodontal disease. During this stage, Dr. Baker will decide whether the prospective candidate will be a good candidate for dental implants. At this time, if the candidate is deemed a good candidate, then the doctor will go through the steps of what the treatment will be to get them into a state of good oral health, to then proceed with the implants. Steps may include getting a deep cleaning of the existing teeth to remove any plaque and tartar. It could also include a night guard appliance to treat any grinding issues. Any problems in the gums and bone in the mouth will also be treated. Once it is established that the patient is a good candidate for dental implants, the doctor will begin by creating and discussing a treatment plan for the patient to improve their oral health to a state where dental implants can be placed. This is also the time at which a general idea for the number of implants and the associated costs will be discussed. An accurate estimated cost coverage from the patient’s insurance provider is often difficult to obtain. This often requires coding and submitting a narrative to the insurance company explaining your need for implants. This process is often required not to obtain more money from insurance, but to ensure that the insurance company has all the correct information to maximize the patient’s benefits and eligibility. This information is often unclear to the patient and it is the doctor’s job to make this as easy and understandable as possible for the patient.

3.3. Healing and Osseointegration

After your dental implant has been placed, the healing process is essentially dependent on the osseointegration. This is a process where the implant, usually made of titanium, forms a direct connection to the bone. The success of the osseointegration can determine how the implant is supported and its long-term success. The osseointegration takes time (3-6 months) but most of this time is the healing that is taking place below the surface. The rate of healing and the duration of osseointegration can be affected by a number of factors. These include the placement site in the jaw, the number of teeth being replaced, the pre-existing quality of the bone site, the patient’s general health status, and whether or not the bone grafting was needed. A stronger and denser bone will yield a more stable base for your new teeth, a key to long-term success. At Dr. Jackson’s office a longer lasting healing abutment is often used under these ideal conditions, which can help to shape the emergence profile of the gum for optimal esthetics. This abutment can help to avoid the further gum surgery that would be needed to expose the implant at a later date. During the healing process, the patient can use a removable partial or full denture, or choose to go without. There are also transitional implants and teeth that can be placed, which can be temporary or long-term depending on the case. Dr. Jackson will be able to discuss these options with you to find the best solution.

3.4. Placement of the Crown

A second minor surgery would be performed in order to connect the post to the implant. The post would be attached to the implant, but would not have the abutment and crown to it, so a partially exposed healing cap would be seen through the gingival. An impression and possible bite registration would be taken at this stage in order to fabricate the final abutment and/or crown. Generally, a few weeks are allowed for the gums to heal before the next step. There are some implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this step, as they already have the post attached. These systems use an implant which already has the extension piece attached. Your dental professional will be able to advise you on the system which is best for you. The final step is the placement of the abutment and prosthetic tooth. A small incision would be made in the gum to expose the implant, and the abutment would be attached. In the case of a screw retained crown, the crown is attached after the abutment. For cases where the abutment/crown joint is to be fixed and cannot be removed by the patient, the two are placed simultaneously. The single prosthetic tooth is known as a crown, and it is either cemented onto the abutment or held in place by a screw. A screw retained crown is easier to remove should there be any complications, while a fixed abutment/crown joint is more permanent and feels more like natural teeth.

4. Choosing the Right Dental Implant Provider

A big part of implant success comes from the planning phase. It is important to make sure that the dentist is thorough in treatment planning. This includes considering the quantity and quality of jawbone, the position of the sinus, and the location of the nerves and the proximity to other teeth and to the patient’s overall general health and any pre-existing medical conditions. Usually, the dentist will take x-rays and depending on the case, may require a CT scan (computer tomography) to obtain a clear view of these anatomical structures. This information will help determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for the patient. If a dentist is not evaluating these factors, it is likely that the treatment may not be successful. Take the time to ask questions and make sure that the dentist is giving you a detailed understanding of what he is planning to do. Coming to a mutual agreement on treatment goals is the key to a successful treatment outcome.

When researching implant treatment, it is important to choose a well-qualified, experienced doctor. Often dentists with advanced training in oral surgery and implant reconstruction will have the best knowledge in dental implant treatment. It is important to look for a dentist who has experience and is knowledgeable in the field, and to be informed on the training the dentist has received. Using state-of-the-art technology can also be an indicator that the dental office is up-to-date with the ever-changing field of implant dentistry.

4.1. Researching Credentials and Experience

Check the credentials of the doctor who would be installing the dental implant. Using the American Dental Association’s website is a great resource. You can also contact the State Dental Society to verify credentials as well as the periodontist or oral surgeon’s office. Quality individuals will be open to provide information about their training and experience. It is important to research what types of credentials the periodontist or oral surgeon has. The periodontist should at least have three years of postgraduate training in surgical placement of dental implants following dental school. This is important because the training program provides the periodontist with a thorough knowledge in both the clinical and didactic aspects of implant dentistry. Since the field of implant dentistry is rapidly evolving, it’s also important to make sure that the periodontist is keeping current with new techniques and procedures through continuing education courses. While many dentists and specialists have taken weekend courses and extensive training programs in implant dentistry, the only credential (not an entire degree) in the field is a specialty certificate from the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. This certificate is offered in only three specialties: oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, and prosthodontics. Usually the periodontist will have the certificate posted on the wall in their office. If the certificate is not visible, it can always be verified with the periodontist.

4.2. Evaluating Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Step 4- MAKE A DECISION- Your teeth are so important. You have to hold in those dentures when you eat and always feel food getting under them? Your current smile has affected your self-image and confidence your entire life. Your oral health has a significant impact on your overall general health. This is a decision you have to get right. It is important to lay out the benefits versus the cost. What is a beautiful smile worth to you? What is it worth to be able to eat and function normally in social situations? Most people agree that life is too short to go any amount of time with missing or impaired teeth. Consider financing in this decision. Paying bit over time may be preferable to holding off completely. With true dental implants being a cut and dry choice when compared to treatments like crowns, bridges or root canals, it is essentially a matter of when you will do it, but time can cost teeth and bone.

Follow up care – Will the doctor be checking up on you post procedure? What type of arrangements are made for follow up care if any? LVI Dentists are CRM (Continual Relationship Marketers). This means that the clients are patients for life and an effort is made to keep them in the loop concerning new services. A good prosthodontist will have you in for those new implants when technology gets even better and the procedure becomes even less painful. He will not be a one and done type of dentist.

Sedation options – Some patients are just terrified of dental work. It is not necessarily vanity that brings them to these implant procedures. We have a lot of former drug and alcohol abusers who have let their teeth and health go. These people often choose these procedures so they can be put in a “twilight sleep” and wake up with the work complete. Ask your doctor if he provides these services.

Appointment time – How long was your initial appointment? Many patients say that they were in and out in no time, without being properly “checked over” by the doctor. Anything under 30 minutes is too short in our opinion. You should be properly examined and diagnosed before any treatment begins.

Make sure the person calling himself a prosthodontist really is one. Your local dental society may have a list of dentists, but it is not a guarantee. The American Dental Association lists these professionals and they are a good place to start.

4.3. Considering Costs and Insurance Coverage

Typically dental insurance does not cover dental implant treatment. Coverage under your medical plan may be possible, and you should check with your medical insurance provider. Detailed questions about your individual needs and how they relate to insurance should be discussed with your dentist and your medical or dental insurance provider. Usually an informed letter from your dentist will help with your medical insurance coverage. With the information and answers you provide, you and your insurance provider can decide the most optimal treatment. This can help with decision making and project planning for the best long-term outcome. My personal opinion is that dental implants are usually worth the cost. With the option of replacing missing teeth with partials, bridges, or dentures, dental implants are a far superior long-term solution with little downside.

Once you have decided that dental implants are right for you, the next step is to choose a dental implant provider. There are several things to consider in making this decision. It is common for a patient to be referred to a specialist in oral surgery, periodontics, or prosthodontics. If your general dentist performs the surgery and places the crown, he or she may have different reasons for the referral. Ask for the specialist’s reasons for the referral. This could provide a good opportunity for the specialist and the general dentist to talk about the case and the best treatment for you. With the specialist’s permission, information about the case can be shared with the general dentist at each phase of treatment. This makes continuity in treatment and the sharing of information with you much easier. It is a good idea to compare the costs of the different implant providers. But be sure to take into consideration the quality of care. It is possible that the provider who costs the most will provide the highest level of quality care. This could save you time and money in the long run by avoiding retreatment to correct complications. Ask the providers for the follow-up care they give after the implant has fully integrated with the bone. This could be the decisive factor in choosing a provider. A lack of special maintenance of the implant and a shortage of monitoring of its condition can lead to failure. An implant which receives meticulous care and regular follow-up can last a lifetime.

Elevate Your Smile with Confidence!

As we continuously pioneer the latest advancements in dental care, Smile Magic Dentistry is your gateway to a dazzling smile. Our comprehensive range of cutting-edge treatments, including teeth whitening, six-month orthodontics, porcelain veneers and crowns, Invisalign, dental implants, and family and general dentistry, ensures that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

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