Implant Dentist Livermore, CA
An implant dentist is a dental professional who is qualified to place surgical fixtures that anchor dental prostheses. Implant dentistry offers patients a permanent, comfortable, and effective way to improve their mouths' look and function. Implants allow placement of dental prostheses such as replacement teeth, crowns, and bridges in the jaw.
Implant dentistry is available at Livermore Dental Spa in Livermore and the surrounding area. Our team can help you restore your smile's appearance and function. Call us today at (925) 344-3993 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
The Qualifications of an Implant Dentist
Professionals who refer to themselves as "dental implant authorities" may have received credentialing and training beyond the typical four years of dental school through another organization. Others may practice in one of two specialty areas recognized by the ADA:
- Dental Implant Surgery: A dental implant surgeon is a type of dental professional. They typically possess additional training and experience in oral surgical procedures.
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons possess at least four years of post-graduate hospital training. Among other things, said training usually includes comprehensive training in bone grafting and the surgical placement of dental implants.
A general dentist with the appropriate training and experience may also be qualified to place implants. However, generalists may refer patients with more complex needs to implant professionals, typically an oral surgeon or periodontist. A more focused background on implant placement can help handle a wider range of patient issues.
“Those who refer to themselves as “dental implant authorities” may have received credentialing and training beyond the typical four years of dental school through another organization.”
Dental Implants Procedures
Dental implant procedures involve inserting an implant to act as an artificial root, anchoring a custom restorative device. There are two major types of dental implants, endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most commonly used dental implant and placed in the jawbone. They are usually made of titanium and shaped like small screws.
Subperiosteal implants are implants that we put under the gum but not in the jawbone. This type of implant is best for patients who do not have enough healthy natural jawbone and cannot undergo a procedure to rebuild it. In other cases, we can rebuild the bone through a bone augmentation, a sinus lift, or a ridge expansion to provide a sturdy foundation for an implant.
“Dental implant procedures involve inserting an implant to act as an artificial tooth root, anchoring a dental restoration.”
Dental Implants Vs. Dentures
Dental implants and dentures are both common options to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and some gum tissue.
Many patients often opt for implants due to their natural appearance and function. However, people must have healthy gums and jaws to receive a dental implant. Dentures may be the right choice for patients who have gums or jaw that are weak or unhealthy.
“Many patients often opt for implants due to their natural appearance and function.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Dentist in Livermore, CA
Alternative Options An Implant Dentist Provides
The purpose of dental implants is to provide an artificial replacement for missing or severely damaged teeth. As such, implant dentists can perform other alternative treatments that fulfill the same goal. Alternative treatments will most likely require a tooth replacement option such as a crown.
Alternative implant treatments include, but are not limited to, dentures, bridges, and root canals. Partial dentures are used for patients with one missing tooth, whereas permanent or full dentures are used for those with many missing teeth. Bridges are placed when a patient has several missing teeth in a row. A root canal is performed when the roots of a tooth become infected or otherwise compromised while the tooth remains in good condition.
“Alternative implant treatments include, but are not limited to, dentures, bridges, and root canals.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What dental implants procedures does an implant dentist perform?
Q. How do dental implants compare to dentures?
Q. When should people seek an implant dentist?
Q. What qualifications does an implant dentist have?
Q. What alternative options does an implant dentist provide?
People Also Ask
Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Q. What should a patient do after dental implant surgery?
Q. What are implant supported options to replace all teeth?
When To Seek an Implant Dentist
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, almost anyone missing at least one tooth can receive a dental implant once facial growth and development are complete. To qualify for an implant, the person should be in good general health with healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They must also have good oral hygiene and attend regular dental visits.
People with one or more missing teeth can benefit from receiving treatment from an implant dentist. In some severe tooth loss cases, an implant dentist can replace all of a patient's teeth. Dental implants can significantly improve the quality of life of a patient with missing teeth. These restorations can improve the appearance, function, and feel of teeth and help people eat, speak, and feel confident.
“People with one or more missing teeth can benefit from receiving treatment from an implant dentist.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What other options does an implant dentist provide?
A. Though implants are the superior tooth replacement option, an implant dentist understands that many people do not make great candidates for this procedure, whether due to cost, health, or other factors. For those patients, a less invasive method may be ideal. Four additional options include fixed bridges, which use a few implants and a bridge of faux teeth; a resin-retained bridge, which affixes to neighboring teeth; removable partial dentures; and full dentures.
Q. How many teeth can a dental implant replace?
A. While a single implant typically replaces one tooth, implants can also treat the loss of multiple teeth. Multiple implants may suffice. A fixed bridge or implant-supported dentures can also be used to replace multiple or even an entire mouthful of teeth.
Q. What can I expect after an implant dentist performs implant surgery?
A. Following dental implant surgery, a patient may experience some discomfort. Symptoms may include bruising of the gums and skin, swelling, pain at the site of the implant, and minor bleeding. The dentist may prescribe minor pain relievers and antibiotics.
Q. How might an implant dentist advise a patient to care for dental implants?
A. To ensure the longevity of implants, a dentist may advise a patient to follow a few recommended practices. Those include practicing excellent oral hygiene and avoiding teeth-damaging habits, such as chewing on hard items and opening things with one's teeth. The dentist may also recommend more frequent dental visits.
Q. Can an implant dentist guarantee the success of implants?
A. Implants have a very high success rate, but no procedure is 100% effective. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict certain complications. However, an implant dentist can assess possible risks and take measures to prevent them before beginning surgery.
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
An implant dentist can help correct issues with missing and damaged teeth. Our team at Livermore Dental Spa can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. Call us today at (925) 344-3993 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Livermore Dental Spa was established in 2023.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Alameda County, Contra Costa County and San Joaquin County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Livermore, Alameda, Pleasanton, Dublin, Ulmar, Tracy, San Ramon, Danville, Mountain House and Castro Valley
- CA (License #101519). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1679095681). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Back to top of Implant Dentist