Carlsbad Dentist Helps Patients Understand The Benefits Of Zirconia Dental Implants

Adults who have a damaged or decaying tooth that needs to be removed or those who have recently lost a tooth should carefully consider their options for tooth replacement. While some patients consider extraction without replacement, dentists agree that filling the gap is important for the overall health of the mouth and remaining teeth.

There are several replacement tooth options available, including dental implants, dentures, and bridge and crown appliances. While these are all strong options for most patients, Dr. Al Fallah often recommends zirconia dental implants.

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Simply put, a dental implant is a replacement tooth root. Dr. Fallah uses the metal-free, biocompatible zirconia material, which is inserted into the jawbone. The mouth is given time to heal, during which the jawbone will adhere to the implant. When that is complete, a custom-made dental crown will be attached, which completes the process.
Zirconia provides several clear advantages to patients, including:

• Strength and durability. Because the implant is placed directly into the bone and given time to heal, it provides the strength and security required to support a future replacement tooth. With other replacement tooth options, patients often must forgo their favorite foods or may feel nervous about speaking or chewing in public. However, with a dental implant and replacement tooth, patients get the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. Patients can eat, smile, and speak without worrying that the implant will shift out of place.
• Oral health. Some adults think about not replacing the missing tooth, particularly when it is a molar that no one will notice. However, all your teeth play a critical role in your oral health. The back teeth are required for chewing and proper speech. The teeth also support the structure of your face and keep the rest of your teeth in proper alignment. Not replacing a tooth can create tightness or pockets between the teeth that could lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Permanent solution. Some tooth replacement solutions involve removing your replacement tooth before sleeping and replacing it each morning. On the other hand, with dental implants the crown can be permanently placed, making it a lasting and easy to maintain solution. In fact, caring for a dental implant and crown only requires the same brushing and flossing that you’re already doing. While the implant will need to be monitored and examined during your bi-annual dental appointments, many patients find that they are a lifetime restoration.
• Safe materials: Just like patients have options on the kind of replacement solution, there are several types of dental implants. Dr. Fallah prefers to use zirconia instead of other materials, such as titanium, because it is free from metals and offers a biocompatible solution. Further, the material does not usually irritate the gums, and should the gums recede over time, the white zirconia implant is more aesthetically pleasing.

Dr. Fallah and his team have helped many patients improve their appearance and smile confidently with safe and durable dental implants. If you have questions or would like to learn more about dental implants, call (760) 730-1600 today.