Your Guide to Dental Implants from Eggleston Dental Care
Are you living with one or more missing teeth or have teeth that are too damaged to be saved? Dental implants represent a superb choice for replacing severely damaged or missing teeth and restoring your smile. Through the field of implant dentistry, you can trust Eggleston Dental Care’s skilled Turlock implant dentist, Dr. Jim Eggleston, to provide you with an enduring and for your smile restoration. Explore our comprehensive guide to learn more about the advantages of implants or call our Turlock dental office at 209-226-4963.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant, also known as an endosseous implant or a fixture, serves as a lifelike replacement for a missing tooth entirely, from tooth root to crown. It comprises three essential components:
- The fixture (securing the implant to your jawbone),
- The abutment (connecting the fixture to the restoration)
- The permanent porcelain crown restoration (positioned atop the abutment)
The most commonly employed implant type today is the endosteal implant, surgically implanted directly into your jaw by Dr. Eggleston. This direct jaw placement forms a robust and unparalleled bond, far superior to dentures or other restorative options.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants offer several benefits, such as:
- Natural Look and Feel: Implants closely mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved Chewing and Speaking: Implants act like natural teeth, restoring full chewing function, allowing you to enjoy a varied diet and speak clearly.
- Durability: Implants are a long-lasting solution that can endure for a lifetime with proper care.
- Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: Unlike some other tooth replacement options, Implants don’t require the alteration or removal of adjacent natural teeth.
- Enhanced Comfort: Implants become a part of your jawbone, eliminating discomfort or irritation often associated with removable dentures.
- Bone Health: Implants stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintaining facial structure and overall oral health.
Am I Eligible for Dental Implants?
The implant process commences with a complimentary consultation with Dr. Eggleston. In this consultation, he will assess your smile, review your medical history, inquire about any habits like tobacco use, and discuss your treatment preferences. Additionally, he’ll ask questions regarding your smile objectives, enabling us to offer the most suitable recommendation.
While many patients may proceed with implant placement right away, some might need supplementary procedures before treatment. For example, if you lack adequate bone in your jaw, bone grafting may be necessary to increase your chances of implant success. During your consultation, Dr. Eggleston will make the determination and suggest supplementary procedures if needed to ensure your suitability as a candidate for dental implant surgery.
The Dental Implant Process
Your journey toward a new, radiant smile will take multiple appointments over a matter of several months on average. It begins with a complimentary consultation with Dr. Eggleston. This is an ideal opportunity to address any inquiries you may have and determine if this is the right choice for you.
Once he establishes your readiness, the process can commence. Dr. Eggleston will administer local anesthesia, and then surgically affix the implant fixture directly to your jaw. This minimally invasive procedure is performed right here at our Turlock office.
Over a period of three to seven months, a crucial phase in the healing process known as osseointegration unfolds, during which your jawbone forms a solid bond with the fixture, ensuring a robust foundation. Healing time will likely vary from patient to patient.
Once your jawbone has fully healed, you’ll return to our practice to complete the final stage of your treatment. Dr. Eggleston will mount the exquisite porcelain crown onto the implant fixture.
Full-Arch Restorations Using All-on-4®
For individuals who have lost most or all of their natural teeth, Dr. Eggleston and his team in Turlock offer a convenient and permanent solution. Our practice provides All-on-4® as a cost-effective method for replacing an entire arch of teeth. This remarkable treatment involves the use of four implants to support a set of natural-looking prosthetic teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
Why Choose Dr. Eggleston as Your Turlock Implant Dentist?
With over 15 years of experience placing implants in Turlock, Dr. Eggleston is a distinguished implant dentist. He holds the title of “Mastership” from the International Congress of Oral Implantology and received training at the renowned Misch International Implant Institute. Furthermore, his expertise extends to cosmetic dentistry, having trained under Dr. Bill Dorfman from the TV show Extreme Makeover.
As a member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, he offers a comprehensive range of implant dentistry services tailored to your unique needs, underpinned by cutting-edge technology, a patient-centric approach, and a strong commitment to your comfort and satisfaction.
When you choose Dr. Eggleston, you’re opting for a highly experienced and dedicated dentist who prioritizes your well-being, ensuring you receive top-quality care in a comfortable and convenient environment. His track record of successful patient outcomes and numerous positive testimonials underscores his excellence in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
The longevity of implants largely depends on your commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene. With proper care, they can endure for 25 years or even a lifetime. However, neglecting your oral and/or overall health may lead to issues like gum disease, which may result in implant failure and removal of the implant. However, the restoration that replaces the lost natural teeth may need to be replaced every five to ten years due to regular wear and tear.
Do dental implants hurt?
The level of pain or discomfort associated with dental implant procedures can vary from person to person. During dental implant surgery, local anesthesia is typically used, ensuring you don’t feel pain. Sedation may also be provided to help calm nervous patients and further reduce discomfort.
Afterward, it’s common to experience some degree of discomfort, swelling, or mild pain, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your implant provider will provide guidance on managing any post-procedure discomfort and will work to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
What is the cost of a dental implant?
The cost of a dental implant can vary significantly depending on factors like location, the complexity of the performed, and the type of implant you’re getting. The exact costs will depend on your case and location. Consult with a qualified dentist for a precise estimate and to inquire about any potential insurance coverage or financing options available.
Do dental implants hurt?
The level of pain or discomfort associated with dental implant procedures can vary from person to person. During dental implant surgery, local anesthesia is typically used, ensuring you don’t feel pain. Sedation may also be provided to help calm nervous patients and further reduce discomfort.
Afterward, it’s common to experience some degree of discomfort, swelling, or mild pain, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your implant provider will provide guidance on managing any post-procedure discomfort and will work to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Reach Out to Turlock Implant Dentist Dr. Eggleston, Call Today!
With Dr. Eggleston’s skill in implant dentistry, you can secure a stable, aesthetically pleasing smile that promotes your overall oral health. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral care will help your implants maintain their natural look and function for many years.
For further information on implant dentistry, please call our Turlock office at 209-226-4963 and schedule an appointment with our implant dentist. You can also complete our contact form below, and one of our friendly team members will be in with you shortly. Our implant dentistry services are available to patients in Turlock, as well as neighboring areas like Keyes, Denair, and Hatch, CA.