Safe and Affordable Dental Implants in Covina, CA

Arrow Smile Dental is the provider of dental implants Covina residents love to turn to. We want everyone, whether new patients, those missing teeth or those with removable dentures, to know that the benefits of implants are numerous.

What Are Dental Implants?

Tooth loss is not just a cosmetic concern. If the gap in your teeth is left alone, then the adjacent teeth will drift into it over time, creating other gaps. The tooth opposite the one that was lost, having no point of contact any longer, will grow down into the gap. This is often accompanied by gum recession around that tooth. Tooth misalignment only raises one’s risk for tooth decay as well as gum disease.

It’s essential, then, that gaps be filled, and this is where removable dentures and dental bridges come into play. Unfortunately, while bridges and removable dentures can replace missing teeth, they cannot duplicate the way those teeth interacted with the jawbone. The alveolar bone, the part of the jawbone that holds the teeth, needs stimulation from the teeth; otherwise, it will be reabsorbed into the body, causing speech problems and distorting one’s facial features.

Only dental implants can prevent both tooth misalignment and alveolar bone resorption. Implants refer to the posts or frames, usually made from titanium, that are surgically embedded in or near the alveolar bone to provide a sturdy root for artificial teeth.

Who Is Eligible for Implants?

Those with healthy gums and a sufficient amount of jawbone can qualify for implants. If too much of the alveolar bone has deteriorated, one will need to get a bone graft beforehand. Also, one must be ready for a time-consuming process; it can take months for the jawbone to heal around the implant. Once the implant and artificial teeth are put in, one will have to commit to regular dental visits and an extensive oral hygiene routine.

Two Types of Implants

There are actually two types of implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. When most people say implants, they are referring to the endosteal implants: screw-like posts that are drilled directly into the jawbone. Another post, called an abutment, is connected to this, and on top of that goes the artificial tooth.

Subperiosteal implants replace missing teeth from a metal frame that lies in the tissue between the jawbone and the gums. Those with too little jawbone who do not wish to undergo a bone graft can choose subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants, though, are more effective.

The Implant Process

The process is fairly simple. Once the jawbone is prepared, the post or frame is inserted. Those who opt for subperiosteal implants will have an impression of their jawbone taken so that the frame fits the bone’s contours. The implant, abutment and artificial teeth are then inserted. Preexisting dental bridges or partial dentures can be fitted to the abutment. For those without either, a dental specialist can create realistic-looking teeth based on a mouth impression.

For dental implants, Covina residents can rely on, call Arrow Smile Dental today. With the help of state-of-the-art technology, our dentists will work hard to see that you maintain the health of your teeth and the integrity of your smile.