Restore Your Smile Permanently
Dental implants are prosthetic teeth designed to replace the entire tooth structure from crown to root. They can be used to replace any number of missing teeth, and are a permanent solution to tooth loss. Unlike other restoration options, they actively prevent jawbone deterioration and stimulate regrowth, which is why Dr. Alfano highly recommends them for restoring your smile to full function.
At Balboa Island Dentistry, we offer NobelPearl® implants, which are metal-free. Now, patients who have sensitivities to metal or simply want a more holistic option can benefit from implants, too.
Our all-ceramic dental implants may be the right solution for you, if:
You want a 100% metal-free restoration
NobelPearl® is the world’s first all-ceramic dental implant. This two-piece implant is crafted from zirconia, a durable, tooth-colored ceramic material. Zirconia is a biocompatible material, so it will naturally integrate with your gums and develop a firm attachment to your jaw.
You want a restoration that works with your smile
When you invest in a 100% ceramic implant, you’re putting your health first. NobelPearl® implants are designed for soft-tissue attachment and low inflammatory response, so your body will start healing faster than it would with traditional implants. They’re also titanium-free, so you don’t need to worry about possible health issues related to metal restorations.
You want a healthy tooth-replacement option
Dental implants are the healthiest tooth-replacement option available because they reverse the negative effects of tooth loss. Thanks to the low plaque affinity of our metal-free NobelPearl® implants, you can experience a whole new level of disease prevention.
By making it more difficult for plaque to gather, our all-ceramic implants promote long-term oral health and prevent the development of periodontal (gum) disease.
You want a stable and attractive restoration
NobelPearl® implants offer the strength and stability of traditional implants while producing exceptional natural aesthetics for your smile. Their design features an Inter-X internal connection, which is customized for ceramic implants, so it doesn’t require any adhesive to remain in place. This interlocking system ensures that your implant will remain securely attached.
With traditional titanium-secured implants, patients often report the presence of a black line around the base of the tooth, which is the titanium portion of the implant bleeding through. This is particularly common for patients with thin gums.
With NobelPearl® implants from Nobel Biocare, the entire implant is made from tooth-colored zirconia for a completely white, sparkling hue.
You May Not Qualify for NobelPearl® Implants if:
You have a compromised immune system
A bulk of the dental implant process is waiting for your body to heal as the implant fuses through a process called osseointegration. After your implant is surgically placed in your jaw, the healing process can take about four to six months depending on your own healing process.
Certain underlying health conditions such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and even diabetes can weaken your immune system. Additionally, certain medications such as beta-blockers or steroids can also impact your immune system. If these apply to you, dental implants may not be a feasible option for tooth restoration.
Your jawbone is still growing
While there are some restorative dental procedures that can be performed on children, dental implants are not recommended. Children’s jawbones are still growing, and placing dental implants in a jaw that’s not finished growing can lead to misalignment over time. Until a patient’s jawbone is fully developed, they won’t be a candidate for dental implants.
Your jawbone lacks density
Dental implants are the only restoration solution designed to replace the tooth from the crown above the gumline to the root beneath it. Dental implants have a success rate of 90-95% that relies heavily on the implant fusing to your jawbone through osseointegration.
The success of this process is what makes the dental implant sturdy and durable. If you’ve gone some time with gaps in your smile, your jawbone can deteriorate over time. If your jawbone is not strong enough to support the implant, the procedure may fail.
Your oral health is in poor standing
If you suffer from tooth decay or gum disease, we’ll need to eliminate the decay and infection in order to move forward with the dental implant process. Gum disease interferes with your jawbone’s ability to heal around the implant fixture, causing the procedure to fail. Having abundant tooth decay or bacteria can cause complications during your healing process due to your body’s vulnerable state during recovery.
Supplemental Procedures
In some cases, you may still be eligible for a dental implant with the help of a supplemental procedure. These procedures are designed to increase the chances of a successful implant by addressing issues with your jawbone strength and oral health.
At your initial consultation, Dr. Alfano can discuss supplemental procedures for eliminating gum disease, getting your oral health in peak condition, or increasing your jawbone strength before starting your dental implant treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get dental implants if I’m pregnant?
It depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it’s safe to undergo a dental implant procedure after the first trimester of pregnancy. However, during and after pregnancy, your teeth and gums can go through changes, and it’s generally recommended to postpone dental operations.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. The ceramic post that is inserted into the jaw fuses through a process called osseointegration so you never have to worry about removal. The porcelain crown may need to be replaced after 15 years or longer depending on proper upkeep.
In order to prolong the life of your dental implant, Dr. Alfano recommends the following:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss once a day, preferably before bed
- Rinse after meals
- Visit our Newport Beach office for routine cleanings at least once every six months
Keeping your implant plaque and tartar-free is key to preserving your implant for a lifetime.
A Metal-Free Solution To Tooth Loss
Dental implants can be an effective, permanent solution to tooth loss. At Balboa Island Dentistry, you can rest easy knowing our implant solutions are metal-free. Dr. Alfano wants all patients to have a successful implant treatment, which is why we ensure all patients are eligible candidates beforehand. If you’re interested in learning more about this restoration option or if you’re an ideal candidate, call our Newport Beach office at (949) 205-1259 or fill out our contact form of the bottom of this form today. A team member will be with you shortly. We look forward to helping you on the journey to a restored smile!