Remember that decaying tooth you had extracted a few years ago? The one for which you kept putting off proper treatment? Since then, you have learned to live with that space between the teeth. It doesn’t bother you and no one can see the gap since it’s way back in your mouth. Nothing to worry about, right? Wrong. The fact is, having even one missing tooth causes the bone to resorb, causes your other healthy teeth to shift and decrease their ability to effectively chew food, and causes other bite problems. If you have one or more missing teeth it is advised to replace it and keep your bone healthy and your remaining natural teeth in sound condition. There are treatment options available to accomplish that, including dental implants in Encinitas.
As an experienced and compassionate restorative dentist, Dr. Mark Galli has used dental implants since 1996 for numerous patients as the most effective way to replace missing teeth. A 1994 graduate of UCLA Dental School and an active member of several prestigious professional dental associations, Dr. Galli has seen that by keeping your natural teeth strong and healthy, you are contributing positively to your overall health, well-being and self-esteem.
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Even one missing tooth can have a detrimental effect on your bone, your bite, your chewing efficiency, and even your self-confidence. In that area, the bone begins to resorb and fewer teeth are doing more work as the other tooth is now gone. This puts more load on weaker bone and the teeth that remain. Then, when your teeth shift, they are less stable, and they wear because the bite is out of synch. This can create gum inflammation, TMJ issues, pain, and bite problems, all of which are hard to reverse. Replacing the missing tooth will stabilize the bone below and the teeth above and around the space, help stabilize the bite and prevent these other long term issues.
No, because the implant is below the gums and the crown that is made on top is very natural looking. Unless you open your mouth and point it out to someone, they will likely not be able to tell. Dr. Galli designs dental implants in Encinitas that are lifelike and blend in with the natural teeth that surround your implant. And, because implants are integrated into the structure of your jawbone, there is little risk of having problems that require further treatment.
The first step to finding out if you are a good candidate for a dental implant is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Galli. He will review your medical history and then perform an examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums. If he determines that you are practicing good oral hygiene and have good bone structure to support an implant, then he will make a recommendation as to the right course of treatment for your situation.
No, as long as you maintain proper oral hygiene and receive periodic oral health visits with your dentist. Because dental implants are fixed to bone structure, they are made to last a lifetime. The implant that is placed where your tooth used to be is made of titanium, a material that is very strong and biocompatible. A connector piece called an abutment is added, where the crown is placed. Your new implants will usually be able to handle all the biting and chewing you will do as you enjoy life with your new teeth.
If you would like to learn more about dental implants and how they may help you maintain a good oral hygiene regimen, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Galli by reaching out online, or by calling 760-943-1449.
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