Dental Implants

Dr. Kitagawa at Gateway Dental Care in Pleasanton, California provides dental implants for those who need to replace a tooth after a loss. Not everyone is a candidate for implants, so a complete examination is required to see if they are the right solution for you. However, if you are a candidate, implants can dramatically improve function and appearance.

What Is A Dental Implant?

Dental Implants are metal anchors surgically placed into the jaw to hold permanent replacement teeth. In time, the jawbone tissue attaches itself to the implant creating highly stable support. There are different types available that provide a versatile way to replace teeth. There are a variety of implant options available.

• Full-Mouth Implants: Also known as All-On-Four® or All-On-4®. This is a good option for patients that do not want to deal with the discomfort of dentures. This process can attach an entire row of upper and lower teeth using as little as four precisely positioned implants.
• Multiple Implants: If a patient is missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth, multiple dental implants will keep the natural teeth intact but fix the areas where teeth are missing.
• Single-Tooth Implants: If you have a single missing tooth, a single dental implant can fix the problem. It will have the look and feel of your natural teeth.

What Are The Benefits?

Implants greatly improve the ability of your teeth to withstand biting pressure. Ideally, they can restore the amount of pressure to nearly the same level as that of healthy, natural teeth. They also eliminate the problem of sores caused by inadequately secured dentures slipping and sliding.

Patients may experience increased self-confidence because implants function virtually the same as natural teeth. With proper care, they can last for many years.

How Are Dental Prostheses Implanted?

Usually a team, including your dentist, an oral surgeon and/or a periodontist, work together to install the implants. X-rays and a thorough exam are necessary to create your treatment plan. During surgery, you will receive anesthesia and one or more “anchors” or implants will be secured within the jawbone to serve as the foundation for your new permanent teeth.

After several months, during which new bone and gum tissue have had time to grow around the implants, a small post is attached above the gum line to each implant. These serve as anchors for your permanent teeth. After your gums have healed, your new replacement teeth are permanently secured to the posts.

How Do I Care For My Implants?

Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are essential to the long life and function you will enjoy with your new dental implants. Dr. Kitagawa at Gateway Dental Care will provide you with full instructions on how to care for your implants during your visit to our office. Contact us to set up an appointment and find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants in Pleasanton.