How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?

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Do you have at least one missing tooth that you want to replace? If you’ve been considering choosing dental implants, note that this isn’t a quick overnight process. Our dentist in Torrance, CA, at Nishikawa Family Dentistry offers the following guidance on how long you can expect this entire process to take.

What Happens During the Implant Process?

We can’t start it without doing a consultation first. We use this visit to make sure that implants are suitable for you. If they are, we can move to the next stage, where we surgically implant a post in your jaw. We let that heal, then provide a crown or denture to replace your tooth.

How Long Does Healing Take?

When you get dental implants in Torrance, CA, it’s a lengthy experience. In fact, you may have to wait months for your tooth replacement. We have to allow your jaw time to heal and make sure the post integrates with it, so it can support your replacement tooth.

What Is the Overall Timeline for Getting Dental Implants?

From your initial consultation to your replacement tooth placement, you may be looking at several months before completing this process. But once it’s done, you’ll have a lifetime solution as a tooth replacement.

Can You Do Anything to Speed Up the Process?

We can’t make the healing process go any faster, but we might discuss faster options with you that may not take as long.

Schedule a Consultation Today for Dental Implants!

Are you thinking of getting implants to replace one or more of your teeth? At Nishikawa Family Dentistry, our dentist offers dental implants in Torrance, CA, as a permanent solution for tooth replacement if you’re a good candidate.

Do Dentures Prevent the Possibility of Implants Later On?

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Imagine trying to enjoy a steak dinner when your dentures slip out of place, making chewing awkward and uncomfortable. After years of this, many people start wishing for something more secure, like dental implants.

But they often worry it’s too late—assuming dentures mean implants are no longer an option. The truth is, dentures don’t automatically close the door on future implants, though there are some key factors to consider. Your Torrance, CA dentist explains:

Why Jaw Bone Health Matters

If you remove the foundation of a house, the house structure will sink into the ground—there’s nothing to support it. This is similar to what happens when teeth go missing—the jaw bone beneath starts to shrink because it’s no longer stimulated by tooth roots. Over time, this bone loss can be pretty noticeable, especially for long-time denture wearers.

Since implants rely on solid bone to stay anchored, limited bone volume might make the process more complex—but not impossible. The encouraging news is that modern dentistry offers solutions like bone grafting to rebuild areas that have thinned out, opening the door to implants even after years of wearing dentures. Your best bet is to get a consultation with a dentist to determine the possibility of dental implants for you.

Transitioning To Implants

Many people start with dentures for quick tooth replacement, then decide on implants later to gain stability and a more natural feel. Even if you’ve had dentures for quite some time, there’s often still a path to implants with the right planning.

Curious if dental implants in Torrance, CA could still work for you? Call our office today to schedule a consultation. Let’s see how we can help you move from slipping dentures to a confident, secure smile.

Dental Emergency

Are You a Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

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When you make the smart decision to do something about your missing teeth, dental implants in  Torrance, CA may be on the top of your list of possible solutions. Highly effective and widely popular, dental implants are one of the top choices by both dental patients and dental professionals. But is this a solution that’s viable for you? A certain level of oral health and other factors play into whether or not you’d be a good candidate for dental implants. Let’s find out more.

Sufficient Jawbone Density

A strong jawbone is essential to support the implant. If there’s significant bone loss, a bone graft may be required before implantation. A dental evaluation will determine if your bone structure is adequate.

Healthy Gums

Gum disease can interfere with the success of dental implants. Healthy gums provide the necessary support, so any existing periodontal issues must be treated before proceeding with dental implant placement.

Good Overall Health

Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain autoimmune disorders, can affect healing and implant success. Smoking and excess alcohol consumption can also slow recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Commitment to Oral Hygiene

Proper care is essential for maintaining dental implants. Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits help ensure their long-term success. Those who struggle with oral hygiene or neglect dental care may not be ideal candidates for long-term success.

No Teeth Grinding Issues

A habit of teeth grinding can put stress on implants, leading to potential failure. If you grind your teeth, a dentist may recommend a night guard to protect both natural teeth and implants.

A thorough dental examination and medical history review by your Torrance, CA dentist will help determine if dental implants are right for you. Book an appointment today with Nishikawa Family Dentistry to learn more.