Restore Your Missing Tooth With a Dental Implant

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth. The implants themselves are small titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is then attached to the implant.

During your consultation at Darren Gonzalez DDS in Santa Rosa, we can discuss whether you are a candidate for dental implants. If not, we can also discuss alternative treatment options to replace missing teeth, such as bridges or dentures. 

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone over the course of 2-4 months. The implant will fuse with the bone during this time, providing an extremely stable foundation for your new tooth or teeth. After the implant has fused to the bone, a small connector post called an abutment is attached to the top of the dental implant. This abutment is what connects your dental crown to your dental implant. At our office, we use advanced technology to precisely place your dental implants during surgery to ensure the most optimal outcome for you. If you are missing multiple teeth in a row, your dentist may recommend restoring your smile with a row of dental implants to support your new set of dentures. In this case, you will need to receive your row of dental implants and have your denture made prior to the placement of the implants. Once your denture is completed and fits comfortably, the dentist will place the row of dental implants into your jaw.

Once the dental implants are in place, the bone surrounding the implant will need to heal for 6-8 weeks. During the healing process, it is important to practice diligent oral hygiene at home and keep your normal routine of dental cleanings and exams at the office to help ensure a healthy smile. When the bone has healed, you will return to our office to have your permanent dental crowns or bridges attached to your dental implants. It is then that your restored smile will be complete!

You can care for your dental implants just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss to keep them clean from debris and bacteria, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.

At our office, you can get all of your dental care services under one roof, including general dentistry, family dentistry treatments, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and more.

To learn more about the benefits of dental implants and which treatment is right for you, visit Darren Gonzalez DDS at 1515 Montgomery Drive Ste B, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, or call (707) 542-1532.