Preparing You for a New Smile
Tooth loss is often followed by jaw deterioration — that’s because when you eat and speak on a daily basis, your teeth keep your jaw strong. Without them, you can begin to experience the detrimental effects of tooth loss on your health.
But Newport Beach’s Dr. Stephen Alfano can restore the strength of your jawbone so you can receive a dental implant. Implants are revolutionary because they not only blend in with your smile, they also keep your jawbone strong. That’s something no other tooth replacement option can do.
Our Supplemental Procedures
The treatment you go through depends entirely on where your missing tooth is located in your mouth. The procedure is mostly the same for both, but there are slight differences.
In both treatments, Dr. Alfano places a new piece of bone into your jaw. This bone stimulates your jawbone to produce more of its own natural material. The end result is a stronger, healthier jawbone that can support a dental implant.
Bone Grafting
If you’re replacing a tooth that’s on your lower jaw, you’ll receive a bone graft. The procedure is fairly minor, but regrowing jawbone strength can take a while depending on your body.
Sinus Augmentation
A sinus augmentation differs from bone grafting due to the location of your sinuses. When you’re missing teeth on your upper jaw, your sinuses can become enlarged. Dr. Alfano can move them back to their original position and then perform a bone graft.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a supplemental procedure necessary?
Supplemental procedures are used to prepare the teeth, gums, and jawbone for dental implant placement, ensuring quality results. Patients who suffer from tooth loss, gum disease, or have worn dentures for a long time typically don’t have enough bone density to support an implant. Thankfully, Dr. Alfano can help you become an ideal candidate for dental implants with a supplemental procedure.
Will insurance pay for my supplemental procedure?
Many insurance providers will cover a portion of the cost of supplemental procedures, but some don’t cover preexisting conditions. We strongly recommend that you contact your insurance provider to get a detailed understanding of your coverage. If you’d like, a member of our staff can contact them for you to ensure you receive the maximum benefits possible.
Your Jaw Can Be Strong Again
You’re not doomed to the effects of tooth loss — we can reverse and prevent jaw weakening to protect your beautiful smile.
To ask us about supplemental procedures, call our office at 949-205-1259 to speak with us. You can also send us a message through our online contact form, available at the bottom of this page. We look forward to talking with you.