If you have a missing tooth or teeth, and you are healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, then you are probably a good candidate for a dental implant. Chula Vista dentist Dr. Pham offers dental implants from the comfort of his dental office.
An implant is a reliable and permanent way to replace a missing tooth. The implant is a shaft made of titanium and topped with a crown or bridge (a replica of the missing tooth). The implant is “planted” into your jawbone which then grows around it and bonds to it, a process known as osseointegration. The implant looks and functions like the natural teeth around it. It is the absolute best way to replace missing teeth – long-term studies show that the teeth adjacent to the space have the best survival rates using implant crowns.
How is it “planted”?
Dr. Pham carefully prepares your jawbone, creating a space exactly the size and shape of the implant. The implant is inserted without the crown and left for a period of time (usually about 4 months) to give the jawbone time to create new bone and bond to the implant. During this time, a dental lab manufactures a replica of your missing tooth from a dental impression of the surrounding teeth. The crown will match the teeth around it. When the bone is ready the ceramic crown is attached to the implant either with a permanent dental cement or a tiny gold screw. To see a video explanation of the process, see Chula Vista Dentist Implants
Does the procedure hurt?
You will be offered appropriate medication to make sure your experience is comfortable. If you suffer from high anxiety about dental work ask about sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry uses special relaxant medications to put you in a sleep-like yet conscious state. Many people use this method with great success. Read more about sedation dentistry here: Chula Vista Sedation Dentist
Should I get an implant?
Dr. Pham can tell you if implants are right for you. Call our offices today to see up an appointment at (619) 421-2155. Remember, the sooner you take care of it, the easier it will be.