If you are missing teeth, dental implants restored by Rancho Cucamonga dentist Sharon Mateja can help you chew, smile, and speak with complete confidence again. Dental implants are surgically placed in your jaw, providing a supremely dependable anchor for dentures and crowns. To learn more about this solution and how it can help you enjoy a better quality of life, contact our office today.

Placing Dental Implants

Dr. Mateja refers the placement of dental implants to a trusted oral surgeon. The process requires two surgeries, and three to six months of healing time, but can provide a lifetime of support for your restorations. During the first surgery, an incision is created in the gums, and a pilot hole is drilled into the jaw. Next, the threaded implant is inserted. The gum is stitched closed over the implant, and over the next few months, the implant and the jaw become fused in a process called osseointegration. Once this process is complete, a second surgery is performed. Another incision is placed in the gum, and an abutment is attached to the implant, serving as the connection point with your crown or dentures. The gums are once again stitched closed, leaving the abutment exposed above the gumline. Once the gums have healed, Dr. Mateja can begin the process of creating your custom restorations.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a wealth of advantages, especially for denture wearers. While traditional dentures rest on the gums, held in place with a mild adhesive, implant-supported dentures are secured directly to the jaw bone, just like natural teeth. This incredible security allows you to bite, chew, speak, and smile without worrying that your dentures will shift out of place. Another very important advantage of dental implants is that they can help you retain valuable bone mass in your jaw. In the absence of tooth roots, the jaw will begin to atrophy, or shrink, as the body redistributes the bone cells. However, the presence of dental implants actually stops this process.

Dental Implants Candidates

Dental implants require adequate bone mass in the jaw to provide an ample foundation. If you have waited a long time to address missing teeth, you may have lost some bone mass, and a bone graft may be necessary before implant surgery can take place. Non-smokers make the best candidates for dental implants. Smoking inhibits the ability of the bones to heal, which is key to the success of this surgery.

For More Info, Contact Us Today

To learn more about dental implants, or to learn whether you are a good candidate for the procedure, contact our office today. We will be happy to answer any questions, and to book your comprehensive new patient exam with Dr. Mateja. Together, you can discuss your options, find out more about dental implants, and talk about your goals. Once you have determined that implants are the best choice, together you can get started on the road to a healthy, confident new smile.