Implant Dentistry: Replacing Missing Teeth in San Diego
Missing teeth can change how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. At Balboa Dentistry in San Diego, we help you explore dental implants and other replacement options with a treatment plan shaped around your needs.
How Dental Implants Support Your Smile
An implant is a small post placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. A connector joins it to a replacement tooth. Implants can restore chewing and appearance while helping limit jawbone shrinkage and keep neighboring teeth stable. Most are made from titanium or zirconium oxide. The FDA's dental implant guide explains their benefits and treatment considerations.
Options for One Tooth or a Complete Smile
- One missing tooth: An implant and crown fill the gap without reshaping adjacent teeth for a conventional bridge.
- Several missing teeth: An implant-supported bridge replaces a group of teeth using strategically positioned implants.
- A full arch: Four or six implants may support a fixed set of replacement teeth, depending on your needs.
- Added denture stability: Implant attachments help a removable denture stay more securely in place.
Planning Your Implant Treatment
Your consultation considers your dental history, smile goals, budget, and available bone. If bone has diminished after tooth loss or gum disease, a graft may help build support. We discuss comfort options and instructions before treatment. Some patients qualify for temporary teeth on the day of placement; permanent restorations follow appropriate healing.
Healing and Long-Term Care
Healing can take several months or longer. Overall health and smoking can affect healing and implant success, so discuss these factors with your dentist. Implants can develop complications, including infection or loosening. Follow your cleaning instructions, attend regular dental visits, and contact your dentist promptly if an implant feels painful or loose.
Explore Your Options at Balboa Dentistry
Whether you need one tooth replaced or help with an uncomfortable denture, our San Diego team can answer your questions and explain the next steps. Schedule a consultation to compare the choices for your smile.
Considering dental implants in San Diego?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hussein Dhayni at Balboa Dentistry to compare single implants, implant bridges, All-on-4, All-on-6, bone grafting, and other tooth replacement options.