Dental implants are often the top choice as a replacement of missing teeth, but they are not the only option. This post explains what implants are, how they work, who is a good candidate, how they compare to bridges and dentures, what to expect during treatment, and costs and care. It’s for adults considering long-term tooth replacement and anyone weighing options for the replacement of missing teeth in Turlock, CA or nearby areas.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts placed into the jawbone that act like tooth roots. A typical implant has three parts: the post (placed in bone), the abutment (connects to the post), and the crown (the visible tooth). Unlike bridges or dentures, implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support and can replace single teeth or whole arches.
How Dental Implants Work as a Replacement of Missing Teeth
Osseointegration: bone healing and long-term stability
Osseointegration is the process where bone grows around the implant, locking it in place. This fusion gives implants strong bite force and helps preserve jawbone volume. Keeping bone healthy maintains facial structure and prevents the sunken look that can follow tooth loss.
Immediate vs staged restorations
Some implants allow same-day temporary teeth, often made of nano-ceramic materials, so you leave the office with a smile. Other cases require a staged approach: the implant is placed, allowed to heal for several months, then the final crown is attached. Immediate restorations are convenient but depend on bone quality and treatment planning.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Good candidates have adequate bone, healthy gums, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes. Smoking and poor oral hygiene lower success rates. Older age alone is not a barrier, but patients must be willing to follow home care and attend follow-up visits. Advanced imaging helps determine bone volume for a successful replacement of missing teeth.
Alternatives: Bridges and Dentures
Fixed bridges replace teeth by anchoring to neighboring teeth; they are quicker and often less costly but require altering healthy teeth. Removable dentures are less expensive up front but may feel less stable and can accelerate bone loss. Resin-bonded options can be conservative but are less durable. Implants typically offer superior function and longevity compared to these alternatives.
What to Expect During Treatment
Expect a consultation with 3D imaging or mouth scans, a treatment plan, and discussion of sedation options like IV sedation for comfort. Implant placement is a surgical procedure followed by a healing period for osseointegration. After healing, an abutment and final crown are placed, or an All‑on‑X restoration is attached for full-arch replacement.
Cost, Longevity, and Maintenance
Costs vary by number of implants, bone grafts, and materials. Implants can last decades with proper care; crowns may need replacement over time. Daily brushing, flossing around implants, and regular dental cleanings protect your investment. Financing can help make implants more affordable for the replacement of missing teeth in Turlock, CA.
Is an Implant the Best Replacement of Missing Teeth for You?
Quick checklist: Do you have the budget or financing? Is your health stable? Do you want long-term function and bone preservation? Can you commit to oral hygiene and follow-ups? If you answered yes, implants are likely a strong option. If not, bridges or dentures may be more suitable short-term.
About Eggleston Dental Care (light)
Eggleston Dental Care in Turlock, CA offers implant and full-mouth options like All‑on‑X, advanced 3D imaging, nano-ceramic temporaries, and IV sedation for comfort. With over 30 years of experience, the team provides transparent planning, flexible financing, and in-house capabilities to help you decide if an implant is the right replacement of missing teeth for you. Contact the office to schedule a consultation and personalized treatment plan.
