Dental Implants Specialist

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are permanent surgical grade titanium tooth root replacements that fuse with your jawbone. The dental implants support a tooth prosthetic to give you a natural-looking smile. 

Because dental implants support your tooth replacement so securely, you can use your prosthetic just like you'd use a healthy tooth. Dental implants can replace one missing tooth, a group of teeth, or even all the teeth in your mouth. 

How do dental implants compare to dentures?

Many men and women prefer dental implants because they're more secure. You never need to worry about your replacement teeth falling out or shifting around while you eat or speak. 

Another reason that many patients choose dental implants over dentures is that they help preserve your natural appearance by preventing bone atrophy in your jaw. With dentures, significant bone shrinkage is expected, and this can dramatically alter your facial appearance.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

The Tustin Dental Center team can evaluate your needs to help you determine whether dental implants are right for you. If you have missing teeth, or if you need extractions because of severe tooth decay or damage, dental implants could be a smart choice. You do need to have enough bone support in your jaw and also healthy gum tissue to get dental implants. 

What is the dental implant process like? 

The dental implant process requires several steps and usually takes around six to nine months to complete. If you need extractions, there's an extra step, but in general, the process for dental implants includes:

Implant post placement

The Tustin Dental Center team places a titanium post in your jaw where your tooth roots were previously. Then, they suture your gums around the post. You'll get local anesthesia and sedation if needed for implant post-placement.

Healing period

For a few months, your implant post starts osseointegration, the process of fusing with your natural jawbone. 

Prosthetic placement

With the implant post now fully integrated, the Tustin Dental Center team attaches your custom-made prosthetic to your dental implant post. 

Your new dental implants may be a little uncomfortable in the beginning, and you could experience some swelling and bruising for a few weeks.

Use the online appointment tool or call Tustin Dental Center for your dental implant consultation.