Dental Implants Fresno California CA - Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants In The Fresno Clovis Madera Visalia San Joaquin Valley California Area

Fresno Dentist Kurt Whitlow DDS Sedation Dentistry

Kurt R Whitlow DDS FICOI

1326 Van Ness Avenue = Fresno = CA 93721 = (877) 468-5199

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What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium metal replacement for a root of a tooth that is surgically implanted in the jawbone.

When a tooth is lost, it is important that it be replaced as quickly as possible. If this is not done, teeth next to the space begin to drift and teeth above or below the space move.

The result is a "collapsing" of the bite and an unstable bite relationship. There is also a much greater chance of developing periodontal disease around these teeth.

Tooth replacement may take a number of forms. However, if the missing tooth is to be replaced by something which is not removed daily, then the two most predictable types of treatment are a fixed bridge or a single tooth implant.

While a fixed bridge may be completed in a shorter time, it has the disadvantage of requiring that the teeth adjacent to the space be filed down, removing all the outer surface (enamel) from the teeth. A three unit bridge is then fabricated in a laboratory and cemented into place.

Over time, a bridge may have to be replaced due to a cavity forming underneath it.

Placement of an implant eliminates this problem.

A pure titanium cylinder or screw is gently placed into the bone. It is not restored for 3-8 months, allowing the surrounding bone to attach to and stabilize the implant.

Once the implant has healed, a single crown is placed on it by your restorative dentist. This approach eliminates the need to file down the adjacent teeth.

Studies have demonstrated that implant supported crowns are at least as stable and predictable as conventional fixed bridges.

The cost of a single implant will vary with the situation. However, your dentist will ensure this is discussed with you thoroughly before proceeding with any tretment.

Dental Implants
In Fresno California and the surrounding
Clovis - Madera - Visalia - San Joaquin Valley CA areas.