Dental Implants in Los Gatos, CA

Natural teeth were designed to last a lifetime, and the good news is that with the proper care, a dental implant can too. Patients who choose dental implants are typically delighted with their results. They love the fact that there is no slipping or sliding, food doesn’t become trapped as it does with dentures or dental bridges, they can eat their favorite foods without fear, and cleaning is straightforward—simply brush and floss as usual.

When it comes to dental implants, there are three components to consider:

1. A dental implant (screw)
2. Abutment (connector)
3. Restoration (crown)

Dental implants act as replacement tooth roots. A titanium screw or implant is surgically implanted (by a dentist) into the jaw. This component can last a lifetime if maintained properly. The abutment connects the dental restoration, such as a crown to the implant. The connector may need to be replaced along with the dental crown. Crowns, while incredibly durable, are not indestructible. The maximum lifespan of any dental restoration is dependent on its maintenance.

Dental implants in Los Gatos

If you want a more permanent solution for missing teeth, dental implants are a great choice. They look and feel like real teeth and provide you with an attractive smile that can last a lifetime. Call our Los Gatos, CA dental office to learn more about permanent tooth replacement.

Patients with inadequate or unhealthy jawbones are not ideal candidates for dental implant treatment. However, your dentist may recommend bone grafting as a necessary pre-treatment to ensure the success of the dental implant procedure. 

The following can also lead to procedural concerns and dental implant failure:

• Smoking and tobacco use – Smoking inhibits the body’s ability to heal and affects osseointegration, the process through which the dental implant and bone tissue fuse and stabilize the implant. Smoking and using tobacco puts you at a higher risk of implant failure and infections. We encourage you to speak with your dentist about abstention if you’re a smoker and are still interested in dental implants.  
• Gum disease – Untreated or severe gum disease deteriorates bone and gum tissue, making it riskier to receive dental implants. If you have gum disease, your dentist in Saratoga can discuss your options. You might only be suitable for dental implants once your gum disease is under control. 
• General health – The dental implant process is multifaceted and spans several months, including surgery. Patients must be in good physical health to undergo implant surgery.
• Diabetes – Diabetes affects your body’s healing process, so recovering from dental implant surgery may be challenging. If you have diabetes, please consult your general practitioner and dentist before considering dental implants. 
• Medications – Certain medications, like steroids, bisphosphonates, and blood thinners, can affect a patient’s candidacy for dental implants. After considering the associated risks, your dentist will discuss the qualification criteria and determine whether we can adjust or postpone medications.

Call Us about Dental Implants in Saratoga

Nicole E Pagonis, DDS, can help restore your smile to its former glory with high-quality tooth replacements. We’d love to speak with you about your treatment options! 

Yes! One of the most incredible benefits that dental implants in Los Gatos offer is they are the closest replacement to a natural tooth that you can get because they restore both your root and tooth. This means that you'll be able to chew and eat comfortably and enjoy all the food you love, just as you did before tooth loss. 

Dental Implants Offer Several Advantages

Caring for tooth implants is simple, too, because you can brush and floss just as you would your natural teeth - and you should! A consistent home care routine is important for protecting your dental implant from plaque and bacteria that could cause it to fail.  

Another benefit of dental implants in Saratoga is excellent longevity. With a consistent home care routine and regular dental checkups every six months, your tooth implant has the potential to last for many years and even a lifetime in some cases. 

If you're living with tooth loss, Dr. Pagonis and her team would love to discuss the benefits of dental implants and how they can help you reclaim your chewing function, dental health, and confidence. Contact our Los Gatos dental office at (408) 399-3920 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Pagonis.

If you’re considering replacing one or more of your teeth, you may have heard dental implants are the gold standard. Because dental implants mimic your natural teeth, they are the best option in terms of strength and functionality.

However, you may have also heard that you can’t get dental implants if you smoke. Is that true? Keep reading to learn more.

Dental Implants and Smoking

The truth is that you can undergo dental implant surgery if you smoke. However, if you smoke, you need to be aware of the potential risks associated with this dental procedure, including the following:

• Slower recovery — Smoking can restrict the blood flow to your jawbone and gums, so this can make your recovery time take longer.
• Increased risk of implant failure — The chemicals in cigarettes can weaken your jawbone, making it more difficult for the dental implant to fuse with your jaw. Also, you are more prone to an infection, which can cause your implant procedure to fail.
• Increased risk of infection – The chemicals in cigarettes can weaken your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight infection.

Considering Dental Implants in Los Gatos, CA?

If you think dental implants might be right for you, consider scheduling a consultation with Nicole E. Pagonis, DDS. We can determine your candidacy for dental implants and help you form a treatment plan that works for you. Contact our dental office at (408) 399-3920 for more information.