A brand new smile with dental implants, a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure in San Francisco

Although cosmetic dentistry is designed to customize the patient's smile to his or her best possible esthetic outcome, some cosmetic treatments are also restorative in nature. The dental implant is one such treatment that provides the patient with both function and beautiful form.

One of the newest advances in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants provide an excellent alternative to the dental bridge. In this scenario, a single tooth is replaced using implant technology, which is explained below. They are also a popular choice among patients who have relied on dentures to replace all or some of their natural teeth.

Although traditional dentures are still used today, the option for dental implants gives patients the ability to consider replacing their removable dentures with teeth that are firmly fixed in place.

A dental implant is a tiny titanium screw that is inserted directly into the jawbone. Since titanium is a biocompatible material, healthy bone will accept it and grow around the implant in the months that follow the procedure. Once this healing process is complete, the implant will have the same strong foundation as natural teeth - if not stronger, as the materials used in dental implants will not get tooth decay. A durable, prosthetic tooth, called a crown, is placed over the titanium implant.

For the denture wearer, implants correct the esthetics of the smile by replacing missing teeth in the most natural way. They also provide a greater degree of comfort and confidence, as there is no chance of the denture slipping or falling out. This strong foundation, allows the implant patient to eat the foods he or she wishes with confidence.

In addition to the function of eating, dental implants allow those with dentures to enjoy normal activities. Smiling, laughing, and speaking are all things that we do regularly. The patient who wears floating dentures may feel self-conscious about these simple activities, for fear that dentures may slip. Because the implant is integrated into the jawbone, the patient gains total confidence in doing the things he or she loves.

Cosmetic dentistry is all about giving you the smile you've always wanted. More than esthetics, implants provide complete confidence in performing regular activities. Contact us to discover if dental implants are the ideal cosmetic treatment for you!