Dr. Thomas Lange and Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick, dentists in San Diego, feel that if you are considering replacing missing teeth the first option should be with the use of dental implants. Dental implants can seamlessly replace missing teeth. Implant crowns no longer require unsightly dark metal edges or clasps. With the advances in implant dentistry we can place an artificial root into the bone where the tooth had been lost and place a crown over that root. The implant is made of a biocompatible metal that actually integrates with the bone anchoring it down permanently.

Conventional bridgework, opposed to dental implants, requires the dentist to cut down adjacent teeth to place crowns which would replace a missing tooth or teeth. Implants provide tooth replacement without the need to cut down adjacent teeth and also replace the missing root within the bone. In addition to preserving the adjacent teeth, the implant also prevents the loss of bone in the area of the missing tooth. The bone starts to melt away as soon as a tooth is lost, it looses its purpose to be there if it is not supporting a tooth. The longer the teeth are missing from the bone the more bone loss occurs. Placing a dental implant preserves the bone in the area by restoring its function to provide better stability and esthetics.

Implants act as an anchor in the bone to which a new crown is attached. After the implant has been placed it typically takes an integration period of three to six months before the final restoration can be placed by Dr. Thomas Lange or Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick. Dental implants are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss.

Would I be a good candidate for Dental Implants?

 

Dr. Thomas Lange and Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick would determine whether your are a candidate by taking radiographs of the existing bone, study models where the tooth is missing and perform a thorough exam. These things will help determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. Call the office at (858) 452-5520.