Endosteal Dental Implants in San Diego, CA

Please be aware that this service might not be offered at our location. Reach out to us at (858) 331-1256 for further information.

What Are Endosteal Dental Implants?

Endosteal dental implants are a type of tooth restoration that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. Typically crafted from titanium, they are the most frequently used type of implant for replacing missing teeth. These implants replicate the form of a natural tooth root when placed in the jaw, providing a stable base for permanent restorations like a dental crown to be affixed atop the titanium implant.

Dental Implants treatment There are several dental implant treatment options available with endosteal implants, such as implant-supported dentures, single-tooth replacements, and more. Contact our San Diego, CA dentist at (858) 331-1256 to learn more about the implant treatments we provide at our dental office.

Advantages of an Endosteal Dental Implant

An endosteal implant offers numerous benefits, including:

Durable solution: With appropriate care, an endosteal implant can endure a lifetime.
Natural appearance and function: You won’t need to worry about movement or instability, as endosteal implants are firmly anchored in the jaw and provide a natural look.
High success rates: Although there’s a minor risk with any surgical procedure, endosteal implants boast a success rate of approximately 95%.
Jawbone preservation: By replacing a missing tooth, patients can avoid jawbone deterioration and maintain a healthy bone structure.
Enhanced oral health: When a missing tooth is not replaced, adjacent teeth can shift, leading to poor oral health. A complete smile helps patients achieve good oral health for many years.
Simple maintenance: Endosteal implants require no special care instructions. Maintain them as you would your natural teeth.

How Do Endosteal Implants Work?

Endosteal implants function by substituting the missing tooth root. During the endosteal implant procedure, an oral surgeon surgically inserts a small titanium post into the jawbone. The implant is then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone, a natural process called osseointegration. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, the dental surgeon attaches an artificial tooth to the metal post. Although the entire procedure is completed in one visit, the healing period ranges from three to six months.

Patients will enjoy a stunning, complete smile that performs just like their natural teeth.

Are You a Candidate for an Endosteal Dental Implant?

Your suitability for endosteal dental implants can be assessed by your oral surgeon or dentist. To qualify as a candidate for endosteal implants, you need sufficient jawbone density and should be in good general health. Patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, or those who smoke or use tobacco products may not be suitable candidates due to an increased risk of implant failure.

Endosteal dental implants are not advised for patients with severe bone loss. In such cases, your dentist may explore alternative tooth replacement options or additional procedures, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift.

Ideal candidates for endosteal implants meet the following criteria:

Excellent oral and general health
Healthy gum tissue
Fully developed jawbone and sufficient bone in the jaw
Ability to maintain an excellent at-home oral hygiene routine
Regular dental visits twice a year for checkups and cleanings

Endosteal Implant Alternatives

While endosteal implants are the most common type, there are other implant options and tooth replacement alternatives. A dental professional might suggest any of the following options:

Zygomatic Implants: These are longer than endosteal implants and are anchored in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone. They’re suitable for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
Subperiosteal Implants: These implants are positioned on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. Subperiosteal implants are appropriate for patients with significant bone density loss in their jaw, making them unable to support an endosteal implant.
Removable Dentures: A non-surgical option for patients who have lost several or all of their teeth. Dentures can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.
Dental Bridges: A prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth by connecting to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.

To determine the best tooth replacement option, your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your dental health and discuss your smile goals. If you’re in San Diego, CA, contact our dentist today to arrange your implant consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the procedure take for endosteal dental implants?

Although the surgical procedure for endosteal dental implants requires only one visit to the dentist, the entire endosteal implant process generally takes several months to complete. The implant must naturally integrate with the jawbone before the permanent restoration can be placed atop the metal posts.

Are endosteal dental implants painful?

Endosteal dental implant surgery typically involves minimal pain, as only a small incision is necessary. The procedure is usually performed with some form of dental sedation. Afterward, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses.

How long do endosteal dental implants last?

Endosteal dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and oral hygiene. To prolong their lifespan, ensure you’re maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting the dentist for routine check-ups, and avoiding habits like smoking or teeth grinding.

Fill the Gaps in Your Smile By Scheduling an Appointment

Endosteal dental implants offer a highly effective and durable solution for replacing missing teeth. Not only do they look and function like natural teeth, but they also help preserve the jawbone’s integrity and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.

Call our San Diego, CA, office at (858) 331-1256 to schedule your consultation.