Patients can enjoy a more comfortable and functional bite after losing teeth with dental implants. Implants act as artificial roots to anchor permanent teeth replacements. If you are missing one or more teeth or need to have one extracted, dental replacements can be a great option to restore your smile.
Dental implants can be beneficial for people who want a tooth replacement option that closely imitates natural teeth. They can be a very effective long-term solution for missing teeth. Dental implants are available at Oak Tree Dental in Poway and the surrounding area. Call our team at (858) 748-2101 to learn more about this service and set up an appointment.
Oak Tree Dental offers dental implants in Poway. Dr. Rafik Riad places implants at our office, using digital planning and 3D cone beam imaging, and our team restores them. We welcome new patients, and payment plans are available through Cherry, Sunbit, Proceed and CareCredit. Call (858) 748-2101 or book online.
The process of getting dental implants
Dental implants are small screw-shaped titanium posts that function similarly to the root of a natural tooth. Once placed in the jawbone, the posts fuse with the bone to create a solid base for replacement teeth. The presence of the implant stimulates new bone growth in the jaw. However, if a patient has insufficient bone quantity, then a bone graft may be necessary before the implant placement. Most patients undergo implant placement under a local anesthetic.
Implants and the jawbone
A dental implant post is placed in the jawbone, and over time the bone fuses with the post to hold it in place. Before placement, the dentist checks the bone to see whether there is enough to support an implant. When there is not enough bone, a bone graft, which adds bone material to the jaw, may be needed first.
When the procedure is complete, we will place a temporary crown or a healing cap over the implant to protect it from food particles and allow the site to heal. A permanent crown or bridge is placed on top of the implant once the healing is complete. Dental implant placement is generally an uncomplicated procedure, although this can vary based on each patient's general and dental health. According to WebMD, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With the right care, implants can last a lifetime** (see results note) and function similarly to natural teeth.
Your consultation and medical history
At the consultation, the dentist reviews your oral health and your medical history, and may take X-rays and imaging. Dr. Rafik Riad places implants at our office, using digital planning and 3D cone beam imaging. The dentist then explains the plan for you.
Good oral health helps the dentist plan implant treatment. The dental team checks the gums, the bone and the remaining teeth, and looks at factors such as medical history that can affect healing. The dentist then evaluates whether implants are suited to you.
What implant placement involves
Implant dentistry is a branch of dental surgery. The dentist places the implant post in the jawbone, usually under a local anesthetic, and the gum tissue is then closed over or around it. The dentist explains each step before treatment begins.
How to care for dental implants
An empty tooth socket exposes the surrounding teeth to harmful bacteria, possibly causing decay. While dental bridges and dentures can cause irritation and broken skin that can cause infection, dental implants improve oral health and are simple to maintain. Once healed, dental implants cover the empty socket and allow patients to clean their teeth and gums easily.
Patients can care for dental implants much as they care for their own teeth. Proper dental implant maintenance includes flossing and brushing, as well as regular dental checkups.
Gum tissue and the surrounding teeth
Healthy gum tissue around the implant, and healthy surrounding teeth, are part of keeping an implant in good order. Brushing, flossing and regular checkups help protect both. If the gums look red or feel sore, patients should contact the dentist promptly.
Proper care after treatment
Proper care starts as soon as the implant is placed. The dental team gives instructions for cleaning the area, and regular visits let the dentist check the implant and the gums around it. Contact the office if something feels wrong.
Implants and your existing teeth
A single implant replaces one missing tooth without relying on the neighboring teeth for support. At the same visit, the dentist also looks at the neighboring teeth and the other existing teeth. If you are replacing a missing tooth, the dentist explains the options that apply to you.
Treatment planned around individual needs
Each treatment plan is built around individual needs, because the number of missing teeth, the condition of the bone and a person's health all differ. The dentist explains the options to replace missing teeth, including implants, bridges and dentures, and the benefits and limits of each.
The cost of dental implants
The cost of dental implants depends on the treatment. The main factors are how many implants are needed, whether a bone graft is needed first, and the type of crown, bridge or denture that the implants hold. Payment plans are available through Cherry, Sunbit, Proceed and CareCredit, and we accept most major PPO dental insurance plans. Talk to the dentist at Oak Tree Dental: the cost for your case is explained at the consultation.
What to expect after the procedure
Following the procedure, it is common to have swelling and discomfort around the implantation site. Some patients may experience minor bleeding and bruising of the skin and gums in the treatment area. These side effects can be managed with pain medication and antibiotics if necessary. Patients can expect such side effects to subside after a few days.
After receiving dental implants, it is best to stick to eating soft foods while the bone heals. Following the aftercare instructions and advice will help the healing process.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Dental Implants in Poway, CA
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Benefits of dental implants
Dental implants can be a good choice for many patients with missing teeth. Dental implants allow new teeth to feel, look, and function naturally. Here are some key benefits of dental implants:
- Comfortable: Dental implants act as tooth roots and stay firmly in place. This firm foundation makes them more comfortable than dentures and other replacement tooth options. Many patients report that implants feel similar to their natural teeth.
- Functional: The stability of implants makes them effective for eating, talking, and cleaning. They function similarly to the teeth they are replacing. Less permanent options may interfere more with daily life.
- Permanent* (see results note): Dental implants are one of the most permanent tooth replacement options. They can last a lifetime** (see results note) with good care. Additionally, fixed teeth on implants do not need to be removed every day for cleaning.
- Natural-looking: Implant-supported teeth look like natural teeth. The visible part of the dental implant is a cosmetic crown made from a composite material that is color-matched to the patient’s tooth enamel. It can be hard to tell the difference. Many patients enjoy dental implants’ aesthetic appeal, as others cannot tell the difference between the implant tooth and the rest.
Tooth loss and the jawbone
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone that held its root no longer receives the same stimulation, and the bone in that area can shrink over time. This is called bone resorption. A dentist can check the bone at an examination and explain what tooth loss means for you.
Life with an implant
Many people in the San Diego area ask how an implant fits into daily life. Creating a plan for eating, cleaning and follow-up visits with the dental team helps you know what to expect. The dentist can also talk through how treatment affects your smile and your day to day life.
Many people choose dental implants as a permanent* (see results note) solution for missing teeth. The implant gives a strong and stable foundation, and its long lasting design supports longevity. Implants can enhance the appearance of a smile, and many people feel more confident with a confident smile. Unlike traditional dentures, implants are fixed in the jawbone, so the advantages include comfort and the freedom to eat favorite foods. The cost of implants is discussed at the consultation. Our dentists bring expertise and commitment to personalized care for your well being. Individual results vary.
Dental implants in Poway and San Diego County
Oak Tree Dental is a dental practice in Poway, CA, in San Diego County, and we welcome patients from Poway, Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, Sabre Springs and Scripps Ranch. Our office offers implant dentistry, and Dr. Rafik Riad places implants at our office. Call the office to ask about a consultation.
Implants compared with traditional dentures
A traditional denture rests on the gums and is taken out for cleaning. Teeth supported by implants attach to implants placed in the jaw. The dentist explains which options apply to a patient, including the options for replacing all of the teeth.
Replacing several missing teeth
When several teeth are missing, several implants can support a bridge or a set of teeth. The number and position of the implants is the dentist's decision after the consultation. A patient with several missing teeth can ask the dentist about the options.
Questions answered on this page
What are the steps of getting a dental implant?
The steps are a consultation with imaging, implant placement, a healing period, and then a crown or bridge. A temporary crown or healing cap protects the site while it heals, and the whole process can take several months. The dentist explains each step before treatment begins.
What is 3D cone beam imaging used for?
3D cone beam imaging gives the dentist a three-dimensional view of the jawbone. The dentist uses it with digital planning to check the bone and plan where an implant can be placed.
Can implants replace one tooth, several teeth or a full arch?
A single implant replaces one missing tooth, several implants can support a bridge or a set of teeth, and a full arch of teeth can be held on four implants with All-on-4®. The dentist advises which option applies after an examination.
Who places dental implants at Oak Tree Dental?
Our dentists, including Dr. Rafik Riad, place implants at our office in Poway, CA, using digital planning and 3D cone beam imaging. Call the office to ask about a consultation.
People also ask
Q. What is the most durable option for replacing missing teeth?
Q. What does the implant recovery process look like?
Q. Why are dental implants a great restorative option for most people?
Frequently asked questions
The entire process, from initial consultation to the end, can take several months. The dental implant procedure usually takes an hour or less. This process can take longer, depending on the location of the site and the number of implants.
Typically, the crown attached to the implant can become damaged. A dentist can replace the crown. Patients should make an appointment with their implant dentist as soon as possible.
Implants can serve as a base to attach permanent or removable dentures. Patients needing full or partial teeth replacements often find implant-anchored bridges more comfortable than other options. Implants can provide patients with additional stability and comfort. Mini dental implants are a smaller type of implant.
Implant posts usually consist of a titanium alloy. A 2019 study found that titanium allergies are less common than other metal allergies. If patients have any concerns, they may have allergy testing done before getting implants.
Most people can resume normal functioning the next day. Some common side effects include gum and skin bruising, facial and gum swelling, and minor bleeding and pain. Dental professionals also recommend avoiding heavy lifting for 48 hours after the procedure.
Dental implant terminology
An abutment is a component that attaches to the dental implant so a professional can place a dental crown to provide patients with an artificial, aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional smile.
Multiple replacement teeth that are fixed in place via attachment to dental implants, natural adjacent teeth, or a combination of the two.
A crown is an artificial tooth, usually consisting of porcelain, which covers the top of the implant to provide people with an aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional tooth.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
An implant-supported bridge is a dental bridge that professionals fix in place with the use of dental implants inserted in the jaw to create a sturdy set of artificial teeth.
Call us to learn more about dental implants
Dental implants closely imitate the form and function of teeth. If you are missing teeth, this may be the solution for you. Call (858) 748-2101 to set up an appointment at Oak Tree Dental and learn more about this procedure.
Individual results vary. How long a treatment lasts, and how it looks and feels, depends on each patient. *"Permanent" means fixed rather than removable. **"Lifetime" describes how long a restoration may last with good care; it is not a guarantee, and restorations can need repair or replacement.