Dentist in Dublin, CA offers replacement for a missing tooth – a dental implant

Dr. Munira Lokhandwala of StarBrite Dental in Dublin, CA is a dentist who understands the need for replacement solutions when patients are missing a tooth or several teeth. Patients have a variety of options they can choose from, including:

• Dental implants
• Dental bridges
• Full or partial dentures

During an initial evaluation with a patient, Dr. Munira Lokhandwala will determine what solution may work best for patients based on their specific needs. In many cases, if patients are deemed appropriate for them, she may suggest dental implants as a permanent way to replace teeth.

Understanding dental implants

Dr. Munira Lokhandwala describes dental implants as titanium tooth root replacements. These are a great option for individuals who are interested in replacing a tooth or several teeth permanently. These permanent solutions are small posts that the dentist will place into the bone of the jaw during oral surgery. The implant then stimulates the growth of bone around the implant. This is what holds the implant firmly and place and makes it a proper foundation for restorations, including dental crowns, dental bridges, and full dentures. This treatment can provide lifelong repair of missing teeth and ensure patients enjoy the function and appearance of their smiles with natural-looking replacement solutions.

Why choose a dental implant?

Dental implants have a variety of benefits for patients to consider when they are interested in repairing their smiles and addressing missing teeth. Dental implants:

• Offer a lifelong, permanent solution for lost teeth
• Help in maintaining the bone of the jaw to keep remaining teeth in place
• Are a smart investment in restoring the smile
• Are completed using natural-looking restorations made of porcelain to mimic the appearance of a natural tooth
• Have optimum stability and strength with their integration into the jaw bone

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Not everyone is an appropriate candidate for dental implants. Dental implants require enough bone to support them. Without enough bone, patients will experience unsuccessful placement. To determine candidacy, our dentist at StarBrite Dental will complete a series of x-rays to look at the bone of the jaw and check its health. This is the only way to decide if patients are appropriate candidates. In the event a patient does not have enough bone but is serious about placing implants, he or she is encouraged to ask about bone grafting. Bone grafting allows the dentist to build the bone up allow the smile to be appropriate for the placement of a dental implant. This is an added cost but can be a smart investment for patients considering implants.

What is the process of placing a dental implant?

After the dentist has taken x-rays and decided that a patient can move forward with dental implants, an appointment is made for the placement of the implants. This is done under proper sedation with anesthetics for optimum comfort. Prior to the appointment, the dentist will determine where to insert the implant and how to ensure a successful procedure. The implant is not restored immediately after placement, as it needs time to allow the process of osseointegration to occur. Once this has been completed, patients can then schedule their restoration appointment. They may restore the implant in various ways, depending on what was determined during their consultation visit and initial planning appointment. Once the implant is restored, patients should continue to visit the dentist for routine appointments including cleanings, examinations, and other treatments.

How long does the implant take to heal?

Healing and recovery vary from patient to patient, based on various factors, but in most cases, the process can take a few weeks to a few months for bone growth.

Are you considering dental implants for tooth replacement?

Connect with Dr. Munira Lokhandwala of StarBrite Dental to learn more about dental implants and determine if they are well-suited for your specific needs. The team can evaluate you and find if you are a viable candidate for this or other options. Call the office at (925) 828-0252 to speak to our front office staff and book an appointment at 7197 Village Parkway, Suite B in Dublin, CA.