Your Friendly Neighborhood Dentist in Irvine, CA
Spectrum Dental Group Places Dental Implants Using Advanced Technology
Are you feeling pain or shame due to missing teeth? Spectrum Dental Group provides cutting-edge dental implant solutions to bring back your smile’s fullness and function. Our Irvine, CA, implant dentists utilize advanced technologies, including CEREC one-visit technology, digital X-rays, and intraoral cameras, for optimal dental implant surgery.
Learn all about modern dental implants and why Spectrum Dental Group is the premier choice for implants in Irvine, CA, by dialing (949) 788-0088 to set up your consultation!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone to anchor replacement teeth. The small titanium posts fuse tightly with the bone through the process of osseointegration. Once healed, custom-created artificial teeth are attached to provide natural-looking, fully functional restorations. A dental implant restores the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
The Three Parts of a Dental Implant
A dental implant consists of three parts:
- The dental implant post is the part inserted into the socket of the missing tooth.
- The implant abutment connects the implant to the prosthesis used above.
- The restoration is what is seen above the gums and provides the replacement tooth or teeth.
Advanced Technology for Dental Implants
At Spectrum Dental Group, our Irvine, CA, implant dentists utilize cutting-edge technology to enhance dental implant procedures, including the following:
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
With CEREC technology, our dental team can design, mill, and place custom crowns on real teeth in a single appointment. This usually eliminates the need for multiple visits and temporary restorations, providing patients with immediate restoration of their smile. Using digital impressions, CAD/CAM software, and an in-house milling machine, we create precise and durable crowns that seamlessly blend with natural teeth, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
CT Scanner (CBCT)
Our state-of-the-art CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanner can produce the sharpest image quality in both 2D and 3D X-rays with the least amount of radiation usually about 1/40th to 1/20th amount of a medical CT. A single 14-second scan result will identify the patient’s teeth, anatomical features, and bone structure in fine detail. This advanced imaging technology provides our dentists with crucial information for treatment planning, particularly in complex cases such as dental implants. By visualizing the patient’s anatomy in high resolution, we can accurately assess bone quality, determine implant placement locations, and anticipate any potential challenges, ultimately leading to more predictable and successful outcomes.
Intraoral Camera
The intraoral camera enables our dentists to capture high-resolution images of the inside of the mouth, allowing for detailed examination and documentation of oral health conditions. By visualizing areas that may be difficult to see with the naked eye, such as the back of the mouth or between teeth, the intraoral camera facilitates early detection of issues and improves patient education. These images also serve as valuable tools for treatment planning and monitoring progress throughout the whole dental implant placement process.
Laser Dentistry
Utilizing laser technology, our dental team can perform a variety of surgical procedures with increased precision, minimal discomfort, and faster healing times. In the context of dental implants, lasers may be used for soft tissue management, including gum contouring and disinfection of the surgical site. Laser technology also promotes tissue regeneration and reduces the risk of post-implant surgery complications, contributing to overall treatment success and patient satisfaction.
Types of Dental Implant Solutions
Single Implant
A single dental implant is a standalone solution used to replace a single missing tooth. This type of implant consists of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone, topped with an implant abutment, and a custom-made crown that serves as the new, functioning tooth. Single dental implants are ideal for patients only missing one tooth as they provide a natural-looking and functional replacement that mimics the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is a dental restoration used to replace multiple teeth in a row. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on adjacent natural teeth for support, an implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This type of bridge offers stability, durability, and preserves the integrity of neighboring teeth. It’s a suitable option for patients with consecutive missing teeth who prefer a fixed restoration over removable dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are removable or irremovable prosthetic devices supported by dental implants. Unlike the traditional style of dentures that rest on the gums and may require adhesives for stability, implant-supported dentures are securely anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone.
This type of denture provides improved stability, comfort, and chewing efficiency compared to conventional dentures. Implant-supported dentures are suitable for patients missing multiple teeth or entire dental arches who desire a more secure and natural-feeling tooth replacement option.
Hybrid Prosthesis
A hybrid prosthesis, also known as an implant-supported fixed denture or All-on-X implant denture, combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of a fixed prosthetic restoration. This type of prosthesis involves the placement of a few strategically positioned dental implants to support a fixed denture that spans an entire dental arch.
A hybrid prosthesis offers excellent stability, functionality, and aesthetics while eliminating the need for removable dentures. They’re an ideal solution for patients with significant tooth loss, several teeth or more, or complete edentulism who seek a permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option.
Fixed Zirconia Bridge
With a fixed zirconia bridge, patients experience the closest approximation to natural teeth, both in appearance and function. Zirconia is a durable and biocompatible material that offers excellent aesthetics, strength, and longevity. The fixed bridge securely attaches to the implants, providing stability and comfort while allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures offer an effective solution for those seeking a more affordable option or who may prefer the convenience of easy removal for cleaning. Usually supported by All-on-4 or All-on-6 dental implants, removable dentures provide significant improvements in comfort and function compared to traditional removable dentures.
All-on-4 and All-on-6
All-on-4 dental implants are a cutting-edge solution for patients who are missing a full arch of teeth. With this method, four dental implants are strategically placed in the jawbone, avoiding the need for bone grafting by maximizing the use of available bone density.
These implants support a custom-made prosthesis that attaches securely to the implants, providing patients with a fixed and stable set of teeth. This innovative approach not only restores the appearance of a natural smile but also enhances chewing efficiency and overall oral function, offering patients a long-term solution with minimal downtime.
The All-on-6 dental implant procedure builds upon the success of the All-on-4 method by utilizing six implants instead of four. This additional support enhances the stability and strength of the prosthetic teeth, particularly in cases where greater chewing forces are anticipated or when there is a need for increased bone coverage.
Benefits of Dental Implants
So, how can a dental implant benefit you? Our Irvine implant dentists provide dental implants as they may provide you with the following benefits:
- Restores Full Smile: Implants match the color, shape, and function of natural teeth for a complete smile.
- Preserves the Bone: The titanium post integrates with the jawbone to prevent bone loss unlike with missing teeth.
- Permanent Solution: With proper care, implants can last decades. This offers you a more stable, lower maintenance solution than dentures would.
- Protects Healthy Teeth: Dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support like dental bridges do.
- Better Nutrition: The ability to bite and chew properly is regained with implant teeth. Having dental implants means there are no restrictions on your food choices.
- Enhances Facial Contours: Implants prevent the collapsing and sagging of facial muscles and wrinkles that missing teeth cause.
- Prevents Dental Drift: After a tooth is lost, the neighboring teeth can start to drift. Dental implants fill that space and keep your bite aligned.
- Boosts Self-Esteem: After receiving their permanent artificial tooth or teeth, many report improved confidence and quality of life from renewed complete smiles.
- High Success Rate: Over 95 percent of dental implants succeed with proper placement and care.
Why Choose Spectrum Dental Group For Your Implants?
Spectrum Dental Group stands apart from other dental implant providers in Irvine through our commitment to excellence in guided surgery techniques. By prioritizing accuracy, we ensure precise implant placement, minimize invasiveness, and promote optimal healing for patients. This approach not only enhances success rates but also offers a more predictable outcome.
We pride ourselves on delivering the utmost comfort and natural-looking results to patients seeking tooth replacement. With the skill of our Irvine implant dentists, we make same-day extraction, implant, and crown placement procedures feasible, providing convenience without compromising quality. Spectrum Dental Group sets a new standard in implant dentistry by combining advanced techniques with personalized care, resulting in superior outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.
Do You Qualify for Dental Implants in Irvine?
Are you interested in dental implants? Patients may qualify for a long-lasting artificial tooth or teeth if they have:
Sufficient Jawbone Density and Volume: Candidates should have enough bone density and volume in their jaw to securely integrate the implant. Satisfactory bone density ensures the stability and longevity of the implant, providing a strong foundation for the replacement tooth. If the patient lacks jawbone density, a bone graft procedure may help them qualify.
Adequate Teeth Space: If there has been significant drifting of the neighboring teeth then there may not be enough space to install a dental implant. However, in cases such as these, orthodontics or tooth reshaping may help.
Good Oral Health: Candidates should maintain good oral health and have healthy gums and teeth surrounding the implant site. Conditions, such as gum disease, can compromise the success of the implant procedure and may need to be addressed before implant placement.
Overall Health Status: Being free of chronic medical conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis can enhance the success rate of dental implants. These conditions can affect the body’s ability to heal properly and may impact the integration of the implant with the jawbone.
Non-Smoker or Willingness to Quit Smoking: Smoking can significantly impede the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Ideal candidates either don’t smoke or are willing to quit smoking to improve the chances of successful implant placement and osseointegration.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Candidates should be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, routine dental check-ups, and professional cleanings. Proper oral hygiene helps prevent complications such as infection and peri-implantitis, promoting the long-term success of dental implants.
Realistic Expectations: Candidates need to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of dental implant treatment. While implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for tooth replacement, they may not be suitable for everyone, and individual results can vary based on factors such as bone quality and oral health.
The Dental Implant Process
Before you’re approved for dental implant surgery, you’ll have an initial consultation with one of our Irvine implant dentists. Your implant dentist will perform a comprehensive dental exam, using advanced technologies such as digital X-rays, intraoral camera imaging, and 3D CT scanning to gain detailed insights into your oral health and anatomy.
Our Irvine implant dentists will precisely assess bone density and bone loss, count how many teeth are missing, identify any potential complications, and plan the right implant type, number, and placement locations. Using these techniques will help your implant dentist design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and give you a better idea of what to expect.
If necessary, tooth extraction is performed to make room for your new artificial tooth or teeth. During the surgical procedure, CEREC computer guidance is utilized for precise implant placement. This technology allows for highly accurate positioning of the titanium post(s) into the jawbone during dental implant surgery, ensuring stability and integration. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, while the use of CEREC guidance enhances the overall success and longevity of the implants.
After your dental surgery, your implants will fuse to your jaw via osseointegration. The process of osseointegration takes anywhere from three to nine months, although this time frame can vary from patient to patient. Once your jaw and gums heal, the dentists at Spectrum Dental Group will have your restoration attached to the implant.
Following the healing period, CEREC same-day crowns are crafted using advanced CAD/CAM technology, allowing for the rapid design and fabrication of custom-made replacement artificial teeth. These crowns are meticulously designed to match the color, shape, and size of your remaining natural teeth well, providing seamless aesthetics and functionality. By offering same-day crowns, patients benefit from immediate restoration of their smile, eliminating the need for temporary prosthetics and streamlining the overall treatment process.
Dental Implant Aftercare
Properly caring for your dental implants after the procedure is essential for long-term success. Make sure you’re doing the following:
- Follow Oral Hygiene Practices: Gently brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the implant area, ensuring thorough cleaning around the implant crown or abutment. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth and around the implant.
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day to reduce the risk of infection and maintain oral hygiene. Choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist and avoid products containing alcohol, as they can cause dry mouth and irritation.
- Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with our Irvine implant dentist. These appointments allow your dental care provider to monitor the health of your implants, detect any potential issues early on, and provide professional cleaning to maintain oral health.
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, hard candy, or nuts, as well as sticky foods like chewing gum or caramel. These foods can exert excessive pressure on the implants and may damage the implant crown or abutment, leading to complications. Stick to soft foods for at least 48 hours after dental implant surgery.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your tobacco use. Smoking can impair the healing process, increase the risk of implant failure, and contribute to complications such as peri-implantitis. Talk to your healthcare provider for resources and support to quit smoking.
- Protect Implants During Physical Activity: If you engage in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of trauma to the mouth, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your dental implants and surrounding teeth. A custom-fitted mouthguard provided by your dentist offers the best protection against injury.
- Watch for Signs of Complications: Be vigilant for any signs of complications such as pain, swelling, redness, or loosening of the implant. Contact your Irvine implant dentist immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns related to your dental implants.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall health and promote healing. Adequate nutrition is essential for optimal healing and immune function, which are crucial for the success of dental implant treatment.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and promote saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and oral infections around the dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coverage for dental implants varies depending on your insurance plan. Some insurance policies may provide partial coverage for the implant procedure, while others may cover certain aspects such as consultations or diagnostic tests.
While discomfort is possible during and after the dental implant procedure, most patients report minimal pain. Local anesthesia is typically administered during the surgery to ensure a comfortable experience, and any discomfort following the procedure can often be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Determining the right dental implant solution for you involves a comprehensive evaluation by your implant dentist. Factors such as your oral health, bone density, budget, and personal preferences will be considered. Your dental professional will discuss various options with you, and provide recommendations based on your specific needs and goals. Additionally, they will explain the benefits and potential risks associated with each option, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your oral health and lifestyle.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution, potentially lasting a lifetime for many patients. The restorations themselves may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years due to regular wear and tear. However, the exact longevity of dental implant solutions can vary depending on several factors, including oral hygiene practices, overall health, and lifestyle habits.
Get Your Smile Back! Call Spectrum Dental Group Today for Dental Implants!
Interested in learning more about revitalizing your smile with dental implants? Call Spectrum Dental Group in Irvine today at (949) 788-0088 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to serving patients from Irvine, and surrounding areas such as Lake Forest, Costa Mesa, and Tustin, CA.
