Dental implants are changing the way people live in the Coachella Valley. Designed to look and feel like natural teeth, implants allow people to retain full function of their teeth, preserve their natural facial contours, and prevent the bone deterioration that can occur when teeth are missing. Dental implants give people the confidence to keep smiling and can be life-changing for those who have lost the ability to eat certain foods or speak clearly due to missing or damaged teeth.
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. A dental implant mimics the function and appearance of a natural tooth through the use of titanium screws and synthetic crowns or artificial teeth. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The jawbone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth, which look and feel just like natural teeth.
Dental implants are one of several choices patients have when they need to replace missing teeth, and they are a particularly good choice when the surrounding teeth are healthy and strong.
Implants:
Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth.
In most cases, the dental implant procedure can take place at our Coachella Valley dental center. Placement requires two surgical procedures. During the first procedure, the titanium screw is placed in the jawbone. Over the next three to six months the implant will bond with the jawbone. You will have to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time.
During the second procedure Dr. Jugan will uncover the implant and attach a small post that protrudes through the gum and serves as the anchor for the artificial tooth. The artificial tooth is placed over the top of these posts, so they are not seen. Once the post is in place, the artificial tooth is attached and positioned to match your bite pattern.
The entire process usually takes six to eight months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.
In some cases, single stage implants are possible. These implants do not require a second procedure, but they do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed.
Implants are a joint effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. While Dr. Jugan will perform the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and any necessary bone grafting, the restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis as well as any needed temporary prosthesis.
If you have suffered tooth loss or think you could benefit from a tooth extraction and implant, contact the Desert Maxillofacial Center in Rancho Mirage, CA for a consultation. Our oral surgeon, Dr. Milan Jugan will be happy to evaluate your situation and recommend a course of action that will have you smiling in no time!
Call 760-837-1515 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jugan today!
Click here to read our office updates in response to COVID-19.
