Improvements and advances in dental technology and materials have dramatically changed the way the Dental Implants Dentist Novato approaches the problem of missing teeth. Dental implants are a revolutionary treatment that is now available because of these technology.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. You may have only recently become aware of Although they may seem like a recent innovation, dental implants have actually had FDA and ADA (American Dental Association) approval for over 25 years! The bio-compatible properties of titanium allow the implant to integrate naturally with bone and tissue in your jaw, creating a sound structure for the replacement tooth.
Why dental implants?
- During the years that we’ve been using dental implants they have proven to be extremely dependable
- Implants are a standalone tooth replacement; they do not depend on neighboring natural teeth for support.
- When the root of a tooth is missing, the jawbone can shrink over time. This causes your face to take on a sunken appearance, making you look older than you are.
- Unlike a bridge or crown, there are no “loose” parts to worry about. Dental implants are stable and comfortable with no adjustment required after placement.
- Years of experience have shown that dental implants can last for decades, possibly a lifetime.
Who places dental implants?
We specialize in the placement of dental implants, with more experience in implant placement than a general dentist. A dentist with limited experience in this area may choose to do only the restoration (crown) portion of the implant. The Dental Implants Dentist Novato has advanced education and experience in this area, and can handle all steps of dental implant placement, from implantation to the finished restoration.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
If you’re an older patient, you may be concerned that your age will prevent you from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, your current health is more of a factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to have dental implants placed.
Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The primary consideration is the presence of sufficient bone to allow placement of the implant. Please contact our office to set up a convenient consultation to discuss your situation, and we can evaluate if dental implants are the right choice for you.