Mission Valley Dental Implants | Rio Vista Family Dentistry

Permanently Replace Missing Teeth

Dental Implants

Before dental implants, patients suffering from tooth loss had no permanent option for restoring their smile. Now, Dental implants offer a permanent tooth replacement option and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. Implants also help prevent common issues that often arise after tooth loss, such as bone resorption and tooth shifting. If you’re missing one or multiple teeth, visit our dentist in Mission Valley for a free implant consultation.

Chew on This

Dental implants have a 98% success rate, and can easily last you for the rest of your life with proper care.

No special care is required! Simply brush and floss as usual and come in for regular exams and cleanings.

Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants prevent bone resorption after tooth loss.

The stability and durability of dental implants will give you confidence when you speak, smile, and chew.

Dental implants look and feel completely natural, so you can feel proud of your smile.

Dental implants have a 98% success rate, and can easily last you for the rest of your life with proper care.

No special care is required! Simply brush and floss as usual and come in for regular exams and cleanings.

Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants prevent bone resorption after tooth loss.

The stability and durability of dental implants will give you confidence when you speak, smile, and chew.

Dental implants look and feel completely natural, so you can feel proud of your smile.

How Implants Work

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are made out of titanium, and they are small, screw shaped rods that are surgically implanted into your jaw to mimic a natural tooth root. Titanium implants have the unique ability to “osseointegrate”, which means that they bond permanently with your natural jaw tissue. Once the implant site heals, a false tooth is attached to restore the aesthetics and function of your smile.

Single-Tooth vs. Full-Arch Implants

Your Restoration Options

Single-tooth restorations, which use a single dental crown to restore one missing tooth, are very common. However, multiple dental implants can also be used to support a removable implant-supported denture or a permanent fixed dental bridge. These options are used to restore the upper, lower, or both arches of teeth for patients who are missing multiple, most, or all of their teeth.

What to Expect

The Dental Implant Placement Process

After a consultation to determine that you are a good candidate for implant surgery, your treatment planning will begin. This includes a comprehensive exam, including x-rays and other images of your mouth, teeth, gums, and jaw structure. When your treatment plan is complete, you’ll come back in to have your implant placed.
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During this appointment, your mouth will be cleaned and numbed, and a small hole will be made in the gum and jaw. Then, the implant will be placed and the area will be cleaned and sutured shut to complete the placement procedure. After this stage of treatment, most patients can get back to their normal lives within a few days.

What To Expect

The Dental Implant Restoration Process?

Though the initial healing process takes just days, it takes about 3-6 months for your implant to bond permanently with your jaw tissue. During this time, our team will work closely with a dental lab to create your permanent, custom implant-supported restoration, such as a dental crown, an implant-supported denture, or a fixed bridge. Once your mouth has completely healed, you’ll come in for your final appointment and your restoration will be permanently placed. You’ll leave our office with a fully-restored, beautiful smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

This is a common question we hear at Rio Vista Family Dentistry, and the answer is, it depends. Dental insurance coverage varies widely, and whether or not your plan covers dental implants is dependent on your individual policy. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of dental implants, while others may not cover them at all. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we're committed to helping you navigate the insurance process and will work with you to understand your coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

How Long Does a Dental Implant Last?

The longevity of a dental implant can vary based on several factors, including the patient's overall health, oral hygiene habits, and regular dental check-ups. However, with proper care and maintenance, a dental implant can last for many years. In fact, they're designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth and can last a lifetime. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, our team of experienced dentists, Dr. Joy Bonifacio Lockwood, Dr. Raquel Reyes, and Dr. Patricia Campillo, use the latest techniques and materials to ensure the longevity of your dental implants.

Do Dental Implants Hurt?

While the thought of getting dental implants may seem daunting, the procedure itself is typically not painful. Most patients report feeling some discomfort or pressure, but not pain. This is because the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area being worked on. After the procedure, any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Our team at Rio Vista Family Dentistry is dedicated to ensuring your comfort throughout the entire process, from consultation to recovery.

How Long After Dental Implants Can I Eat Normally?

After dental implant surgery, it's important to allow your mouth time to heal. For the first few days, you'll likely need to stick to a diet of soft foods and liquids. After that, you can gradually reintroduce more solid foods into your diet as comfort allows. It's important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until your dentist gives you the go-ahead. The team at Rio Vista Family Dentistry will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and successful outcome.

Remember, every patient's experience with dental implants is unique. What's most important is finding a skilled and experienced dental team that you trust. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we're here to answer all your questions and provide the best possible care for your smile.