How Do Dental Implants Work?

Encinitas, Carlsbad, and San Diego

If you have lost a tooth or are facing the loss of a tooth, you should consider tooth replacement options. Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option available, and can help restore the appearance and function of your smile after tooth loss. Only dental implants look and function just like your natural tooth and require no special care, but also have the potential to last a lifetime.

 

This page provides good background information if you are interested in how dental implants perform their function. If you would like to learn whether you are a candidate for dental implants, the best thing to do is schedule a consultation with San Diego dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole today.

 

How Dental Implants Work

 

Dental implants are able to perform all the functions of your natural tooth because they mimic the structure of your tooth. Your tooth is composed of two parts: the visible portion, called the crown, and the part below the gumline, called the root. The visible portion is made up of highly aesthetic and strong dental enamel. The portion below the gumline is made up of cementum, which is tougher, but not quite as strong and definitely not as attractive. The visible portion of the tooth is used for chewing and looking good, but the lower portion serves to anchor the tooth in the jaw.

 

A dental implant is similar. It is made up of two parts: a root and a crown. The root is made up of titanium, a highly biocompatible material that can be incorporated into your jawbone, while the crown is made of a highly aesthetic and strong ceramic composite.

 

When Dental Implants Don’t Work

 

Dental implants, like natural teeth, are not always able to fulfill their function. Although the success rate of dental implants is over 95%, there are some situations in which they are much more likely to fail:

 

• If you have insufficient jawbone to support the implant
• If you are a smoker
• If you do not treat periodontal disease, allowing it to attack the jawbone
• If you use your teeth as tools
• If you have severe bite or neuromuscular dental imbalance

 

In many cases, cosmetic dentist Dr. Walsh-Cole can address these issues before placing the implant or after to prevent failure so you, too, can enjoy a replacement tooth or teeth as attractive, functional, and easy-to-care-for as your natural teeth.

 

To learn more about what makes dental implants the best tooth replacement option available, please contact San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole today to schedule a consultation.