Millions of people in America struggle with the challenges of missing teeth — a condition that significantly impacts quality of life and self-esteem. For many people, missing teeth impacts mental health so much that it affects personal and professional interactions. While dentures have been a solution for several decades, they come with several downfalls. Fortunately, advancements in restorative dentistry have paved the way for better, longer-lasting solutions. 

Continue reading to discover how dental implants offer hope and renewed self-assurance to those with missing teeth — and where to find the best dentist for restorative dentistry in Mountain View. 

Why Dental Implants a Great Choice to Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are an increasingly popular choice for treating missing teeth — offering numerous advantages over traditional alternatives such as dentures or dental bridges.

Dental implants include titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone and serve as artificial tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for permanent replacement teeth. As they fuse with the bone over time, dental implants provide exceptional stability and functionality, resembling natural teeth in both appearance and performance. This innovative approach to tooth replacement not only restores the aesthetic appearance of a complete smile but also helps maintain oral health by preserving bone structure and preventing the shifting of adjacent teeth. 

The benefits of choosing dental implants include:

  • Replacement teeth that have a natural appearance — blending seamlessly with existing teeth
  • Improved speech and comfort compared to dentures that often slip and slide in the mouth
  • Ability to eat and enjoy a wide variety of foods without restriction 
  • Preservation of facial structure and prevention of bone loss
  • Long-lasting solution with a success rate of up to 95%
  • Versatility in treating a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth — including a full arch if necessary 

The biggest advantage of dental implants is that they are designed to last a lifetime with proper care — making them a cost-effective long-term investment in oral health and overall well-being. 

What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants

Getting dental implants is a multi-step process that typically requires a few dental appointments. Initially, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive oral examination, including dental X-rays and 3D dental imaging. This imaging will allow your dentist to assess your jaw bone density and plan the implant placement. 

The first surgical procedure for dental implants involves placing the titanium implant into your jawbone. After this, a healing period of several months is required for osseointegration — the process in which the implant fuses with the bone. Once healed, a second minor surgery is done to place the abutment, which connects the implant to the crown of your new dental implant. 

Finally, your custom-made artificial tooth is attached to the abutment, completing the process. Throughout this journey, you can expect some minor discomfort and swelling after surgical procedures, but these side effects are typically manageable with prescribed pain medication and proper aftercare. 

How to Care for Your Dental Implants

One common question we hear is, “How do I take care of my dental implants?” Many people are surprised to know that caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily are two essential steps to keeping your implant and surrounding gum tissue healthy. 

Other care techniques you should consider include: 

  • Using a low-abrasive toothpaste
  • Consider an interdental brush or water flosser for hard-to-reach areas
  • Avoid smoking
  • Limit consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, and red wine to maintain the appearance of your implant
  • Be mindful of biting hard objects, and consider a night guard if you have a habit of grinding your teeth 

Regular dental check-ups and professional dental cleanings are also important for keeping your remaining teeth, gum tissue, and mouth healthy. These appointments also allow your dentist to monitor the health of your implant and address any potential issues early.

Where to Find the Best Dentist in Mountain View, CA

When it comes to dental implants, the journey doesn't end with the implant placement — ongoing care and maintenance are essential to preserve the health and functionality of your implants. This is why selecting a dentist with extensive experience and expertise in implantology is important. Doing so will ensure the long-term success of your new smile and help you protect your investment. 

Dr. Behdad and the team of specialists at Dental Square are dedicated to providing comprehensive implant care, from the initial consultation through to long-term maintenance. Their commitment to staying at the forefront of implant technology and techniques ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care throughout their implant journey.

At Dental Square, you can always expect a warm and supportive environment where your comfort is the top priority. Our team of dental professionals offers personalized advice on implant care, including proper cleaning techniques and routine maintenance recommendations. Should any issues arise, our practice offers full-service implant care for repairs and adjustments that ensure your restored smile remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Ready to restore your confident smile with durable, natural-looking dental implants from the most qualified dental implant dentist in Mountain View?