Dental implants are a great alternative to traditional dentures. Today, they’re a lot more accessible as a method of tooth replacement, whether you have one missing tooth or need to restore your entire smile. That means implants are gaining a lot of popularity over more conventional prosthetics, such as removable dentures in Carmel Valley.

As a fixed restoration, dental implant offer a wide range of benefits that significantly improve the quality of life for anyone with missing teeth. At Torrey Hills Dental, we want our San Diego clients to understand the key benefits that dental implants have over traditional dentures.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a type of restorative dental treatment that replaces missing teeth with what’s essentially an artificial tooth. The implant itself is usually made of titanium and is shaped like a small screw or post that’s placed into the bone, similar to a tooth root. Once the implant is installed, the bone in the jaw will gradually fuse with the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a replacement tooth to be attached. A fully integrated dental implant becomes a permanent part of your smile that’s capable of lasting a lifetime.

Today’s modern dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and can last for many years with proper care. If you’re replacing all of your teeth at once, our Carmel Valley dentists can use as few as four implants per arch of teeth, anchoring a streamlined, hybrid prosthesis. That means no bulky, removable dentures!

Benefits of Dental Implants

1. Improved Comfort – Dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, which provides a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth. This means that they won’t shift or move around like traditional dentures, which can cause discomfort and sore spots in the mouth. In fact, they feel nearly identical to anatomical teeth.

2. Better Functionality – Dental implants are designed to function just like natural teeth. This means that they allow you to eat and speak with ease, without any of the restrictions that come with traditional dentures. You can eat anything you want, including apples, corn on the cob, or steak.

3. Long-lasting – Dental implants are designed to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Unlike traditional dentures that may need to be replaced every few years, dental implants can last a lifetime.

4. Improved Oral Health – Dental implant help to maintain the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. They are the only tooth replacement that’s non-invasive to other teeth. Whereas traditional dentures require extracting other teeth and can contribute to bone loss.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

While both dental implants and dentures can be great, practical options for replacing missing teeth, there are some key differences between the two.

Dentures are typically made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. They are designed to rest on the gums and are held in place with suction or adhesive. While they can be a cost-effective option, they often require regular adjustments and can be uncomfortable for some people to wear. They also require modifying the way you eat and speak.

Dental implant, on the other hand, are made of titanium and are surgically implanted into the bone next to other teeth. This provides a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth, which look and function just like anatomical teeth do. While all in four dental implants can be more of an up-front investment than dentures, they offer long-lasting benefits and require minimal maintenance. In fact, they’re more cost effective since they can last a lifetime.

Dental Implants San Diego

If you’re considering dental implants in San Diego, Torrey Hills Dental can help you determine if they’re the right option for you. We offer a range of dental implant services, including implant placement, implant-supported dentures, and implant bridges. Our state-of-the-art technology and equipment ensure that you receive the highest quality care possible.

Our office is conveniently located in the Torrey Hills area of San Diego, and we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We also offer a range of financing options to make dental care more affordable.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation!