MOSA Oral Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implants are an appealing replacement technique used to restore missing teeth. Dental implants are a versatile treatment option for replacement teeth. They can restore a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, act as anchors for a bridge, or even support a full-arch of new teeth.
Unlike many other options, their unique design allows patients to maintain the health of their mouth over time. Dr. Michael Lewis, Dr. Ryan Lloyd, and Dr. Andre LaMothe are experts in the restoration of missing teeth with dental implants and provide patients with new smiles daily at their office in Monterey, CA.
At MOSA Oral Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery, we want every patient to have the opportunity to restore their oral function smile with confidence. Many patients find they are a good candidate for dental implants.
During an initial consultation, our doctors will review all restorative options and develop a custom treatment plan which addresses the patient’s unique needs and preferences. Our friendly front office team is happy to assist in setting up an initial consultation to determine if they are the best solution for your oral health and smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
A single dental implant consists of three individual parts including the implant post, abutment, and crown. The implant post is composed of medical-grade titanium and acts as a replacement for the missing tooth root. It integrates firmly with the jaw, creating the strong foundation to support the implant.
The abutment is the connecting piece that attaches the implant to the crown. The crown is custom designed to look like a natural tooth and blend seamlessly with the rest of the mouth. When the restoration is complete, patients regain the ability to eat the foods they once enjoyed, speak with ease, and smile with confidence.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Patients who choose to receive dental implants to restore their smile may experience benefits including the following:
- Natural-looking smile
- Improved health in the bones of your jaw
- Increased confidence to smile
- Alternative to removable dentures
- Minimize bone loss
- High success rates
- Simplified dental care
- Reduced periodontal disease
- Ability to chew, drink, speak, and breathe more easily
- Stable dental arch
- Can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance
Dental implants are highly recommended by our oral and maxillofacial surgeons to maintain long-term oral health and healthy gums. They are also recommended to avoid the complications that accompany tooth loss, such as jaw bone shrinkage and dental shifting.
Types of Dental Implants
There are many types of dental implants to choose from, including:
- Single tooth implants.
- Implant-supported bridges to replace several teeth next to one another.
- Full-arch restoration.
- Immediate implants, placed right after extraction.
MOSA Oral Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery offers all these options. Your oral surgeon will work with you to select the right choice for your smile goals.
Dental Implant Procedure
First, you will meet with one of our oral and maxillofacial surgeons for a consultation. We will complete a thorough medical history review, oral examination, and X-ray evaluation of the affected area. This allows our team to develop a custom treatment plan and best address the oral health issues at hand.
If the tooth is already missing, bone grafting may be required to ensure that the implant post has a large enough jaw for firm integration. If an extraction is needed, we can often perform this procedure at the time we place the implant.
We can usually complete dental implant placement in two steps. During the first surgical procedure, we will place the implant post. Next, patients must let the surgical site heal, and allow the implant to integrate with the bone.
Once complete, we can schedule the final appointment to place the final crown and abutment. The crown is fabricated and placed by the restorative dentist and is usually developed using the 3D scans taken during the initial consultation.
We will discuss all treatment details during the consultation, including the use of anesthesia. Many patients prefer to undergo dental implant placement with IV sedation and rest comfortably during the procedure.
We will also review and provide you with detailed instructions before and after your surgery. These instructions will outline important steps to follow throughout the healing process, such as what to expect and good oral hygiene practices.
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Dental implants are valuable because they improve your ability to eat and smile with confidence. Many patients opt for this tooth replacement option because it’s affordable, convenient, and easy to care for. Several factors determine the cost of a dental implant, including:
- Number of implants needed
- Your choice of anesthesia
- Additional procedures, such as bone grafting or extraction
- Details of insurance coverage
Dental Implant FAQs:
1. What’s the difference between a flipper tooth and a dental implant?
A flipper tooth, also known as a temporary partial denture, is a removable denture usually used while waiting for a more permanent solution like a dental implant. Made from acrylic, it’s not as durable or stable as an implant. On the other hand, a dental implant is sturdy and long-lasting, making it an ideal replacement for a missing tooth. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to mimic the look and function of a natural tooth.
2. Can you still get gum disease with dental implants?
Unfortunately, it’s possible to develop gum disease even with dental implants. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding smoking are key to preventing gum disease and ensuring the longevity and success of your implants.
3. What should I do after my dental implant surgery?
After your dental implant surgery, it’s important to follow any post-operative instructions you’re given. Avoid hot foods and drinks, stick to any dietary restrictions, limit physical activity, and don’t rinse your mouth vigorously. Following these general guidelines will help protect the surgical site. Also, if you’re on opioid pain medication, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
4. How much does a dental implant cost in Monterey, CA?
The cost of a dental implant varies depending on factors like the complexity of your case, the number of implants needed, the type of anesthesia used, and your insurance coverage. For a more accurate estimate, please contact our office for a consultation.
Dental Implants in Monterey, CA
If you’ve been thinking of replacing a tooth, multiple natural teeth, or crowns, bridges, or dentures with dental implants, trust MOSA Oral Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery. Our oral surgeons place dental implants on a regular basis in our state-of-the-art offices.
The team at our practice in Monterey, CA, is happy to assist you in scheduling appointments, answering financial questions, and ensuring your questions are answered about your upcoming dental implant treatment. We look forward to providing you with a smile that lasts a lifetime.