Dental Implants in Murrieta, Placed Here From Start to Finish

How does a dental implant replace a tooth?

An implant replaces the part of a tooth you can’t see: the root. Because it is anchored in bone, it doesn’t lean on the teeth next to it.

The FDA notes that implants can restore chewing and appearance and help keep the jawbone from shrinking where a tooth is missing.

In our letter to patients, we shared one of the changes at our office: dental implants placed in our office, from start to finish. Your implant care stays here in our Murrieta office, with the same phone number you already know.

Cleveland Clinic describes three parts that work together:

• The implant: a threaded post, most often titanium, that sits in the jawbone like a root.
• The abutment: a small connector that attaches to the post and rises just above the gum.
• The restoration: the part you see, which can be a crown, a bridge or a denture.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Most adults who can have routine dental treatment can be considered for an implant, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS).

Many people with conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes can still have implants, sometimes with extra precautions. If your gums need attention first, our gum disease treatment page explains that care.

These things can affect whether an implant is a good fit for you:

• Enough healthy jawbone to hold the post. If bone has been lost, a bone graft may help build it up.
• Healthy gums. Active gum disease should be treated first.
• Well-managed health conditions. Uncontrolled diabetes can slow healing and raise the risk of infection.
• Tobacco use. Smoking or vaping can slow healing and lower long-term success.
• Good daily care. Implants need brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth.

What are the steps to getting a dental implant?

Getting an implant usually happens in stages over several months. Your plan depends on your bone, your gums and how many teeth you’re replacing.

Careful planning starts with clear images. Our office is adding updated technology, including 3D imaging, digital X-rays and digital impressions. The FDA lists dental implant planning as one use of dental cone-beam CT, a type of 3D scan. Learn more about 3D imaging and digital impressions.

Can implants replace more than one tooth?

Yes. Implants can replace one tooth, several teeth in a row or a full arch of upper or lower teeth. If you’re living with gaps now, our page on missing teeth has more on your choices. Common options in dentistry include:

• Single tooth: one implant holds one crown, and the teeth on either side are left alone.
• Several teeth: two or more implants can hold a bridge that replaces three or more teeth.
• Full arch: usually four to six implants hold a full set of teeth. These implant-supported dentures can be fixed in place or snap on and off.

Does getting a dental implant hurt?

Expect some soreness and swelling afterward, but the area is numbed before the implant is placed, and some people also have sedation. Over-the-counter pain relievers often help with the soreness.

Cleveland Clinic says initial healing takes about a week, and most people feel like themselves within a week or so. During healing, the ADA notes your dentist may suggest soft foods, and avoiding tobacco helps you heal.

Call your dentist if the implant feels loose or painful, or if you notice bleeding or swollen gums, pus, a fever or swollen glands in your neck.

Feeling nervous? Nitrous oxide has been offered here for anxious patients. Ask our team about comfort options for your visit.

How do you take care of a dental implant?

Care for an implant much like a natural tooth: brush twice a day, clean between your teeth daily and keep up with regular dental visits.

Regular cleanings and exams let your dental team check the gums around the implant. The FDA notes that keeping those gums clean can take extra care.

Two more tips from the FDA: ask for the brand and model of your implant and keep it with your records, and tell other health care providers about your implant before an MRI or X-ray.

Implants vs. bridges vs. dentures: what’s the difference?

All three replace missing teeth, but they’re held in place differently. AAOMS notes that, unlike fixed bridges or removable dentures, implants are unlikely to affect healthy neighboring teeth or lead to jawbone loss.

A bridge or denture can still be the right choice for some people. You can compare options on our dental bridges page. Here’s a quick look:

• Implant: anchored in the jawbone, so it doesn’t depend on neighboring teeth.
• Bridge: a replacement tooth held by crowns on the teeth beside the gap. Those neighboring teeth are reshaped to hold it.
• Denture: a removable set of teeth that rests on the gums. Implants can be added to help steady a loose denture.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of an implant depends on your treatment plan, so the most accurate answer comes after an exam. These are the main factors, and our dental implant cost guide explains each one in more detail:

• How many teeth you’re replacing and how many implants that takes
• Whether you need a tooth removed or a bone graft first
• The type of restoration: crown, bridge or denture
• The imaging and planning your case needs
• What your dental plan covers

Does insurance cover dental implants?

Coverage for implants varies from plan to plan, so check your benefits before treatment starts. We work with most dental insurance plans, including most PPOs, and we still accept the UFCW member dental plan. UFCW members should always verify coverage before treatment begins; see our UFCW dental plan page.

We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express and CareCredit, and we’re adding more payment choices with flexible financing options. Learn more about dental financing.

Many dental benefits renew at the end of the year, and our team is happy to help you use yours before then.

Questions & answers

Common questions