Dental implants are the metal hardware and prosthetic teeth that are inserted by Dr. José F. Lázaro to replace missing or damaged teeth. Dental implants are both aesthetic and functional; in other words, they will look and perform just like natural teeth.

 Dental implants provide the longest-lasting, most aesthetically pleasing, and best performing option for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants can also improve dental health by preserving bone which would otherwise deteriorate with a missing tooth.

 A dental implant is a tiny, screw-like titanium post that is implanted into bone, forming the “root” of your replacement tooth. Into this post, the prosthetic tooth is placed. The prosthetic tooth is custom sculpted and colored to fit in seamlessly with your natural teeth.

 Dental implants are an aesthetically and functionally superior alternative to conventional crowns and bridges. Unlike dentures and bridgework, dental implants can be placed even in cases when there is inadequate bone to build upon. When you meet with Dr. Lázaro, he will assess the condition of your bone, conduct imaging and will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Dental implants require surgery to be placed into your jawbone. Once implanted, your bone will heal around the implant and provide a strong and secure foundation in which the prosthetic tooth will be attached. Your implant will be fused into place as your bone heals, so it is functionally the same as a natural tooth, but with the difference of not being prone to decay.

Another benefit of dental implants over conventional crown and bridges and removable dentures are that dental implants actually strengthen and help avoid bone loss. Whereas removable bridgework can cause damage to the bone, dental implants do not. While dentures may feel cumbersome, make noise, unstable and move in the jaw bone or make eating difficult, dental implants look and function just like natural teeth, so you (and others) won’t even know the difference between dental implants and healthy, natural teeth.

 Dental implants are a great option if you are missing one or more teeth, have sufficient bone to which the implants can be secured (or have undergone bone grafting procedures to strengthen your bone structure), are a non-smoker and do not have health issues that could complicate healing and want to see and experience a huge difference in your smile. Also dental implants provides great stability for removal dentures. These are attached to the dental implants by means of anchor fixtures and maintain the denture from moving in the jaw bone.

Like all surgical procedures, some risk is involved including potential for infection and other complications as well as potential for some pain following your procedure. Risks, pain management and sedation options will be discussed with you during your appointment and any concerns you have will be addressed by Dr. Lázaro and his staff.