Published by Piedmont Dental by Design | Piedmont, CA | Restorative Dentistry
Overview
Missing teeth create both structural and functional problems. Without treatment, adjacent teeth shift, jawbone deteriorates through resorption, and gum tissue recedes. Dental implants are considered the gold standard solution, as they replace the entire tooth structure, including the root, to function like natural teeth.
At Piedmont Dental by Design, Dr. Jill Martenson provides comprehensive implant care to patients throughout Piedmont, Oakland, Berkeley, and the greater East Bay.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant consists of a small titanium post (3-5mm diameter) surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Titanium is biocompatible, meaning bone fuses to it through osseointegration over 3-6 months. Once integrated, a custom ceramic crown is attached via an abutment connector, creating a permanent, natural-looking replacement tooth.
Why Dental Implants Are the Gold Standard
Preserve Jawbone Unlike dentures or bridges, implants prevent bone loss by stimulating the jaw mechanically, maintaining density and volume.
Natural Appearance and Feel Custom ceramic crowns match surrounding teeth in color, shape, and translucency, indistinguishable from real teeth.
Long-Term Durability With proper care, implants last decades or a lifetime. The titanium post rarely fails; only the crown may need replacement after 15-20 years.
Protect Adjacent Teeth Implants don't require grinding down healthy neighboring teeth like traditional bridges do.
Improve Quality of Life Patients enjoy eating previously avoided foods, eliminate denture adhesives, and regain confidence in social situations.
The Implant Process: Step by Step
- Consultation and Evaluation – Review medical history, take digital X-rays and CBCT scans, assess bone density and candidacy
- Treatment Planning – Develop personalized plan including implant number and restoration type
- Implant Placement Surgery – Place titanium post under local anesthesia; return to normal activities within days
- Osseointegration and Healing – 3-6 month fusion period; temporary restoration may be placed
- Abutment Placement – Attach connector once integration is confirmed
- Crown Delivery – Custom ceramic crown is fitted and adjusted
Candidacy Requirements
Most healthy adults with missing teeth are candidates. Ideal candidates have adequate jawbone density, healthy gum tissue, and good overall health. Conditions requiring additional evaluation include active gum disease, significant bone loss, uncontrolled diabetes, certain blood-thinning medications, and tobacco use.
Implants vs. Alternatives
Dental Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures
Implants offer advantages in bone preservation, natural appearance, durability, comfort, and long-term cost-effectiveness. While bridges and dentures have lower upfront costs, they typically require replacement and adjustment over time, whereas implants are a one-time investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost in the East Bay A single implant typically ranges from $3,000-$5,500, including post, abutment, and crown. Some insurance covers portions of treatment.
Surgical Pain Procedures use local anesthesia, ensuring no pain during placement. Mild soreness afterward is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Longevity Implants can last a lifetime with proper care. The titanium post is extraordinarily durable; only the porcelain crown may need replacement after 15-20 years.
Consequences of Non-Replacement Untreated missing teeth lead to drifting, bite changes, increased decay risk, jawbone resorption, and facial structure changes.
Multiple Missing Teeth Implants can replace single teeth, multiple teeth via individual implants, bridges, or full-arch dentures using as few as four strategically placed implants.
Contact Information
Piedmont Dental by Design (510) 350-3937 1331 Grand Ave, Piedmont, CA 94610
