Replace Missing Teeth or Damaged Teeth With Dental Implants

Missing one or more teeth can have many adverse effects: from affecting your willingness to smile to increasing your risk of oral health issues. Fortunately, there are several options for replacing missing teeth and restoring a healthy and attractive smile. Dental implants are one such option. Made of medical grade titanium, dental implants are strong and durable. They are carefully crafted to match the function and appearance of natural teeth, allowing you to speak, eat and smile with ease and confidence.

With years of experience in implant dentistry, Drs. Eric Driver and Thomas Gonzales of Town Center Dentistry are highly trained and skilled in the latest treatment methods and technology in implant dentistry. Dr. Driver is a board certified periodontist and implant expert who earned his doctorate degree from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. Having performed thousands of implant surgeries, Dr. Driver is a respected authority in implant dentistry. Dr. Gonzales is a graduate from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and is one of the pioneers of the all-on-4 implant technique. Known for their expertise and caring, attentive approach, Dr. Driver and Dr. Gonzales have helped hundreds of San Diego patients smile again.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically inserted in the jawbone and attached to a dental restoration. There are three different types of dental implants. Single-tooth implants replace one tooth, and consist of a dental crown attached to the implant. Implant supported bridges replace several teeth and some tooth roots while implant-supported dentures replace an entire tooth arch in the upper or lower jaw.

Dental implants offer several benefits for patients who are missing one or more teeth. First, implants fill in gaps in between teeth, restoring a complete smile and attractive smile. Filling in gaps with dental implants also reduces the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. Because they are surgically inserted into the jawbone, dental implants will not slip out or shift in the mouth, unlike dentures. This makes everyday tasks like chewing and speaking easier and more comfortable. Dental implants also help stimulate the jawbone, preventing it from shrinking and deteriorating. This in turn supports the facial structures and helps maintain a normal-looking facial appearance.

Are You a Candidate?

Dental implants may be a good choice for you if you:

• Are missing one or more teeth
• Have one of more teeth that are severely damaged or decayed
• Are in good general health
• Have enough jawbone to support the implant(s)
• Do not smoke
• Do not suffer from a chronic illness that could interfere with the healing process

The Implant Placement Process

Dental implant restoration and placement is typically performed over the course of two appointments. Each dental implant will be specially crafted for your mouth, matching the color, shape and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a beautiful and natural-looking appearance. 

During your first appointment, Dr. Driver or Dr. Gonzales will examine your mouth to determine the number, location and type of implants needed. Theywill also take impressions of your mouth, which will be used to create your customized dental restoration(s). They will then insert the implant(s) into the jawbone. If you do not have sufficient jaw bone volume to support the implant, your implant specialist may use a bone graft to strengthen the jaw bone.

Once the implant is in place, it must fuse with the jawbone, a process that can take several months. After the implant has bonded with the jawbone and the jawbone has fully healed, you will return to our office so our implant specialists can place your dental restoration. They will make any necessary modifications to your restoration to ensure it is a proper fit.

Recovering from Your Dental Implant Procedure

Recovery from dental implant surgery is typically short and complication-free. Minor side effects may include swelling and bleeding. We can prescribe oral medication to help minimize discomfort. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the implant’s healing progress and ensure it is functioning properly.

With proper care, dental implants can last for many years. You should care for your implants just like your natural teeth, brushing and flossing them regularly. Regular dental checkups are also important to maintain your oral health and the monitor the function of your implant.

Why Choose Town Center Dentistry for Your Dental Implants

At Town Center Dentistry, we are committed to providing safe and exceptional dental care, and implant dentistry is no different. Our modern facility is fully equipped with the latest technology and equipment to provide complete dental implant treatment, so there is no need to travel between various offices to complete your implant treatment. Drs. Driver and Gonzales have extensive knowledge and training in implant dentistry, allowing us to offer the most reliable and high-quality implant care in San Diego.

FAQs

What are dental implants made of?

Dental implants are made of biocompatible titanium that attaches to a dental restoration (crown, bridge or denture) that sits on top of the gums.

Does dental implant surgery hurt?

Anesthesia is used during dental implant surgery, meaning you will not feel any pain during treatment.

I am nervous about having dental treatment. How can your office help?

Our staff takes every step possible to ensure your visit is a successful and comfortable one. We utilize the latest dental technology to ensure optimal safety. Our friendly and trusted staff is available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns. We also offer several sedation dentistry options to help you stay comfortable and relaxed during your treatment. All sedation options are administered and monitored by a sedation specialist from our team.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of your dental implant treatment will depend on the type and number of implants needed. Town Center Dentistry proudly offers affordable pricing for San Diego patients. For specific pricing, please schedule an appointment with us.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be strong and durable. With proper care, they can last for many years, possibly even a lifetime.

Schedule an Appointment Today

To learn more about dental implants, please schedule an appointment with Town Center Dentistry. Our dental implant specialists Drs. Driver and Gonzales can meet with you and discuss whether implants are right for you. Please contact our Rancho Bernardo office at (858) 521-0000.

The Best Dental Implant Specialists in San Diego

Town Center Dentistry only brings in the very best specialists to join the team, and that is certainly the case when it comes to dental implants. We know how important dental and oral health is, and we treat every procedure with the respect it deserves. All of our Dentists are highly trained and immensely talented in their craft.

Dr. Eric Driver has a bevy of experience, a diverse skill set, and an ability to communicate that will keep your mind at ease. Dr. Driver believes that communicating with the patient through every stage of care is key in developing the most successful doctor/patient relationship. He has extensive training in periodontal surgery, treatment planning and dental implantation.

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Schedule a Dental Implants Consultation in Rancho Bernardo Today

We know that you are going to love our beautiful office, the technology, and welcoming staff. That is why we welcome all patients in for a consultation to see how we do things at Town Center Dentistry.