Dental Implants Specialist
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Japantown Dental
Alex H. Mendoza, D.D.S.
Cosmetic, Family and General Dentistry located in San Jose, CA
More than three million Americans have dental implants and another 500,000 will get them this year. Dental implants provide a long-lasting way to restore missing permanent teeth and make it easier to bite, chew, and speak confidently. At Japantown Dental in San Jose, California, Alex Mendoza, DDS, and the team provide restorations for dental implants. They also partner with oral surgeons to coordinate implant placement. To schedule an appointment, book a consultation online or call the office to speak with a friendly staff member today.
Dental Implants Q&A
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small posts made of titanium that provide a sturdy foundation for oral prosthetics like bridges, implant-supported dentures, and crowns.
Unlike other restorations, dental implants don’t rely on your existing teeth for support. Instead, an oral surgeon places them into your jawbone during a brief, outpatient procedure.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants provide various advantages, including:
- Easier eating
- Improved speech
- Durability
- Convenience
- Increased confidence
In addition, dental implants improve your oral health. By taking action to restore missing teeth, you can significantly lower your risk of gum recession and bone loss.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are usually well-tolerated but not everyone qualifies. To get dental implants, you need healthy gums and enough jawbone density to support them.
If you have periodontal disease or low bone volume, the team might recommend bone grafts or scaling and root planing before moving forward.
Additionally, let the team know about any chronic medical problems you’re living with. Diabetes and high blood pressure won’t necessarily prevent you from receiving dental implants, but certain pre-existing conditions may increase your risk of implant failure and other complications.
Does getting dental implants take a long time?
Getting dental implants typically takes a series of three or four appointments spaced out over 6-12 months.
The team at Japantown Dental doesn’t place dental implants themselves. Instead, they refer you to an oral surgeon in the area. During your initial procedure, the oral surgeon places the implants into your jawbone. The number of implants you get depends on how many teeth are missing and the type of restoration you desire.
Three or four months after your initial procedure, you visit Japantown Dental. The team takes impressions and sends them to a dental lab. The laboratory manufactures your crowns, implant-supported dentures, or bridge.
At your final appointment, the team connects the restorations to your dental implants. This process restores your smile as well as your biting and chewing abilities.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last years. The team at Japantown Dental recommends brushing and flossing daily and visiting the office every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. Avoid bad habits such as nail-biting and opening objects with your teeth.
To learn more about dental implants, schedule an appointment at Japantown Dental. Book a consultation online or call the nearest office to speak with a friendly staff member today.