Implant-Supported Dentures FAQs

1. What are implant-supported dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are a type of dental prosthetic anchored securely to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, these dentures are attached to implants, providing better stability, comfort, and function.

2. How do implant-supported dentures differ from traditional dentures?

Implant-supported dentures offer superior stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. They are anchored to dental implants, which stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss, whereas traditional dentures may shift and cause bone resorption over time.

3. Are implant-supported dentures a permanent solution?

Yes, implant-supported dentures are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth replacement. With proper care, they can last many years and are often considered a permanent solution, unlike traditional dentures that may need frequent adjustments or replacements.

4. What are the benefits of choosing All-on-X or All-on-4 for denture implants?

All-on-X and All-on-4 are advanced implant techniques that offer a full arch of replacement teeth supported by just a few implants. These methods provide a stable, cost-effective solution with fewer implants, reduce the need for bone grafting, and offer a faster recovery time compared to traditional methods.

Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are part of an exciting tooth replacement option. You can enjoy many benefits when you decide to anchor your new teeth to these replacement tooth roots. Implant dentistry offers you a:

• Durable and Natural in Appearance – Dental implants offer the same biting force as a natural tooth, because the implant is anchored in the bone. Smile, speak and eat with confidence with teeth that are natural in appearance and function.
• High Treatment Success Rate – With decades of research, the overall success rate for dental implants is around 95%. Implants are often the best treatment options for replacing missing teeth. Permanent Solution – Dentures and bridges may require replacement. With proper dental hygiene, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
• Easily Maintained – Implants are cared for in the same manner as natural teeth, with brushing, flossing and routine dental exams. Implants that anchor dentures or bridges allow for removal and cleaning, and then easy replacement.
• Preserves Healthy Teeth – Healthy adjacent teeth aren't harmed or affected since neighboring teeth are not used for support (as they are for bridges).
• ‍Comfortable Way to Anchor Denture or Bridge – Implant dentistry can securely anchor a removable denture or bridge, increasing comfort and function.

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth may affect the way the jaw closes, which can cause bite and jaw joint problems (like TMJ), causing pain and discomfort. Patients with missing teeth often complain of headaches, difficulty in eating, and embarrassment in social and professional settings.

How Is the Dental Implant Placed?

After meeting with Dr. Jeff Gray or Dr. Greg Hurtado to determine if you are a good candidate, the doctor will carefully position the implant in the jawbone, duplicating the stability and strength the natural tooth root would provide. Over a few months the implant will fuse with the jawbone. Then our on-site Master Ceramist, Mike Milner, will create the replacement tooth or crown. Your new tooth is then placed on top of the implant, replicating the beauty and functionality of your natural tooth.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental teeth implants are usually an ideal option for our San Diego patients who are in good general oral health but have lost a tooth or teeth due to disease or injury. Teeth implants allow an entirely new set of options for restoring your health, your smile and your confidence.

The cost for dental implants is now more affordable than ever, and Dr. Gray can also help with payment plans and no interest financing to fit almost any budget for those needing tooth replacement.

Here are some additional factors to evaluate if you are considering a tooth implant:

• Age – Teeth implants are an excellent solution regardless of age – whether you are young, middle-aged, or a senior. We have placed teeth implants for our patients from the ages of 20 to 78.  Dental implants are usually postponed in children until their jawbones are mature. However, there are some instances when a tooth implant may be appropriate, such as when it is part of a child’s orthodontic treatment.
• Health – If your health allows for routine dental treatment, you can probably have a tooth implant placed, if there is adequate bone structure. New techniques are also available to add bone tissue to an area, allowing us to place teeth implants.
• Periodontal (Gum) Disease – Almost all teeth implants placed in patients who have lost their teeth to periodontal disease or decay have been successful. This tends to be the most common reason people lose their teeth. Replacing teeth in this way is one of the best uses for a tooth implant as it will not decay. This procedure also means that many patients do not experience bone loss due to gum disease.
• Dentures – If you have a removable denture but would like greater stability and better functionality, teeth implants can be used to secure and stabilize the denture, making it much more comfortable. If you have unsightly silver clasps showing, an implant-supported partial denture may even eliminate the need for the clasps, which can dramatically improve your smile and confidence.
• Smoking – Although smoking lowers the success rate, it doesn't eliminate the possibility of getting a tooth implant.
• Dental Hygiene – Teeth implants are highly successful and easy to maintain with normal daily dental care, including brushing and cleaning each tooth implant.  It is also important to continue your routine dental cleanings, so Dr. Gray can monitor the health of not only your implants but the other teeth also.

Other Uses of Dental Implants

If you currently have a fixed bridge or removable dentures, dental implants can also be very effective in anchoring these devices, making them secure and comfortable. If you would like to learn more about how dental implants can make your dentures incredibly secure, you can learn more on our Implant Supported Dentures page.

Implant Dentistry FAQ's

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Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Tooth Implants?

If you are missing teeth and are in good general health, you may be a candidate for dental tooth implants. Having healthy gums and adequate bone to support the tooth implants improves your success rate for dental implants surgery. It also helps if you are free of chronic disease or systemic problems and are a non-smoker. You should realize that regular home care (brushing and flossing) are still needed to care for your tooth implants, and you will want to maintain regular dental check-ups. Dr. Gray can help determine your eligibility for the implant dentistry procedure.

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What If I Choose Not to Replace My Lost Teeth?

Missing teeth affect the way the jaw closes and may cause bite and jaw joint problems (like TMJ). The remaining teeth begin to tilt and drift into the gaps. It can become difficult to eat and chew food. Food can become trapped in the spaces, increasing the risk of decay. Over time, the jawbone will disintegrate, making dental restoration difficult or impossible. When teeth are missing, the shape of the face is altered. It is recommended to not wait to restore missing teeth as this prevents much larger dental issues. Missing teeth may also affect your confidence and well-being, potentially interfering with social and professional opportunities.

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Are Tooth Implants Expensive?

Dental tooth implants have become very affordable as they have become a very common restoration, however, they may involve investing in your smile and overall health. Dental implants are within reach of most patients. Your cost will be determined by a number of factors involving your bone level and the type of restoration you choose to restore your mouth. Unlike most dental crowns, bridges, or fillings that would probably need to be replaced at least once, dental tooth implants can last a lifetime with proper dental hygiene, and may actually result in a significant savings over a lifetime to our patients. Patients who have completed the process indicate that the improvement in their life and health was well worth the investment and that they would do it again. Dr. Gray’s office in La Mesa can provide you with a variety of payment and financing options.

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Will My Insurance Cover Implant Dentistry?

You will need to verify your individual insurance benefits because there is great variation in coverage between dental plans. Portions of the implant dentistry procedure may be covered, but it is likely that the tooth implant itself will not be a covered benefit. While you are at your complimentary implant dentistry consultation appointment at Espire Dental in La Mesa, we can provide you with a variety of payment options to help you fit your new smile into your budget.

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Is the Implant Dentistry Procedure Painful?

As with any surgical procedure, there can be some minor discomfort with implant dentistry. Local anesthesia and even sedation can be used during the procedure to keep you very comfortable. The vast majority of patients report that they have minimal discomfort the day after the tooth implants are placed and most are amazed that they feel so normal. Dr. Gray may prescribe pain medication for use following the implant dentistry procedure, and he encourages patients to stay in contact should they become uncomfortable afterwards.

Will I Have to Miss Work to Get Dental Tooth Implants?

Most people are able to comfortably return to work the day after receiving dental tooth implants, and many people return the same day. The new advanced implant dentistry techniques used by Dr Gray are often non-surgical, so many patients do not even require sutures.

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How Long Does the Implant Dentistry Treatment Take?

For the placement of most tooth implants, the office appointment time is under 2 hours. Implants normally take just 6 weeks to integrate or “connect” to the bone, at which time we can restore your new teeth in another appointment.

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What Is the Implant Dentistry Success Rate?

Dental tooth implants are among the most successful dental procedures performed. While there is no guarantee that an implant dentistry procedure will be successful, recent studies have shown the success rate near 95%. Tooth implants have been used for several decades. When properly cared for by the patient through brushing, flossing, and regular dental exams, they can last a lifetime.

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Damaged or Missing Teeth?

Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation in La Mesa Today with Dr. Gray or Dr. Hurtado! If you have lost confidence interacting with others or have difficulty biting or chewing due to damaged or missing teeth. Let us help take away your worry and bring back joy to your life once again. Our practice has helped hundreds of patients with tooth replacement using dental implant surgery. Don't put off living your best life any longer! Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jeff Gray or Dr. Greg Hurtado at our La Mesa office today.

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Our dentists and caring team will answer your questions, help determine your needs, and suggest the best solution for your oral health. Give us a call to schedule your free dental implant consultation today. We proudly serve patients in La Mesa, El Cajon, San Diego and beyond, and we look forward to serving you. You will be living your best life again soon!

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What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry allows you to comfortably undergo every procedure, from a simple cleaning to extensive treatment. For those with severe dental anxiety, dental sedation can be the answer to receiving the dental care you need. One of the additional benefits of dental sedation is that the medicine has an amnesia quality, which, for most patients, tends to prevent almost any memory of the visit. It is sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry” because of this and its other pleasant effects.

• Dental sedation enhances the effectiveness of anesthetic.
• Gagging is decreased during “sleep dentistry.”
• The patient does not feel as much joint and muscle soreness after dental sedation.
• Sedation dentistry allows more treatments to be provided in a shorter time, which could decrease the total number of visits.
• Patients remember little or nothing regarding the procedures performed by the sedation dentist.
• Amazingly, sedation dentistry can also reduce or eliminate the pain associated with dental procedures as sedation dentist Dr. Gray explained on The Wellness Hour.

How Does Dental Sedation Work?

Understandably, many who first learn of dental sedation have questions about the safety of the procedure as well as the actual technical details of how dental sedation works.

At Espire Dental in La Mesa, we offer several methods of sedation dentistry, including oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. Both options have an outstanding record of success and safety.

Dr. Gray has successfully administered sedation dentistry for over 5,000 cases in the La Mesa/ San Diego community. That should give you a little comfort when considering dental sedation.

Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry

Oral conscious sedation has been employed for years and has a great track record of success. This dental sedation option can be administered in pill form or under the tongue for rapid absorption. Patients love oral conscious sedation dentistry because it is fast-acting, comfortable, and effective.

It truly is remarkable that dental technological advances, including dental sedation, have brought us to the point where even those with severe dental phobia can get the high-quality dental treatments they need to achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

With our New Patient Special we offer Oral sedation at no additional charge (some limitations apply).

IV Sedation Dentistry

We also offer IV sedation with a Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologist for those patients who want to be totally out or have medical conditions that would require this for their health or safety. The IV sedation does have a fee that would be discussed prior to a visit. Dr Gray and Dr Hurtado are happy to help the patient decide which might be the best choice for them based on their specific situation.

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Sedation Dentistry for Patients with Special Needs

At Espire Dental – Jeff Gray, DDS, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive oral care tailored to individuals with physical, developmental, or cognitive challenges. This specialized approach recognizes that patients with special needs may experience heightened anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or difficulties with communication, which can make traditional dental visits challenging. To address these concerns, sedation dentistry plays a crucial role in creating a comfortable and stress-free environment. By incorporating sedation options, special needs dentistry ensures that patients can receive the necessary care without the overwhelming feelings often associated with dental procedures.

In special needs dentistry, sedation is not just about comfort; it's about accessibility and safety. Sedation dentistry allows our La Mesa dentists to perform even the most complex treatments with ease, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their individual challenges, have access to high-quality dental care. This approach not only enhances the patient’s experience but also provides reassurance to caregivers, knowing that their loved one is being treated with the utmost care and consideration. Through the integration of sedation techniques, our special needs dentistry makes it possible for every patient to maintain oral health in a supportive and understanding environment.

Is Dental Sedation Right For Me?

Dental sedation is a phenomenal option for many people and has its place and purpose. Though we have had great success with dental sedation and a proven track record of safety, dental sedation is not for everyone. We usually offer dental sedation to two main groups of people in the San Diego vicinity.

Dental Anxiety

Many people have a deep fear of the dentist and have struggled with it for years. These people often have neglected smiles because they have put off going to the dentist due to fear of pain or the “normal” dental treatment.

Many of our older dental sedation patients had traumatic dental experiences in their earlier years before modern dental technology brought speed and comfort in dental treatments up to where it is today. Horror stories of terrible root canals, extractions, drillings, etc. haunt people and cause a deep fear of the dentist.

This fear has often followed them into their later years and prevents them from regularly seeing the dentist for needed dental work. As a result, patients procrastinate getting needed hygiene and maintenance, leading to larger and more expensive treatments down the road.

Younger people experience dental anxiety as well. Whether it’s fear of needles, feeling trapped, not trusting a previous dentist, etc. dental sedation can help remove the fear of the dentist, so you can get the dental care you need at our La Mesa dentist office.

If you fit in either category, dental sedation may be just the solution you need. Imagine actually feeling relaxed at the dentist. Even if you have the most acute dental anxiety, dental sedation can help you. You may just be amazed at how effective it is.

Why Busy People Like the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Yes, we have a few busy people in San Diego. We often have new patients that just don’t have the time to receive more extensive dental treatment spread out over a lengthy period. For those in this category, sedation dentistry enables you to receive needed extensive dental treatment all in one visit.

The ability to perform multiple dental procedures at once helps our busy patients save time and frustration as we improve their dental health. This is just one more remarkable thing that sedation dentistry can do for our patients!

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How Do CEREC Same-Day Crowns Work?

The process of getting a CEREC crown is both efficient and comfortable. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Diagnosis: During your appointment, Dr. Gray or Dr. Hurtado will assess the affected tooth and determine if a CEREC porcelain crown is the right solution.
2. Preparation: Once diagnosed, your tooth will be prepared for the crown. This typically involves shaping the tooth to ensure a perfect fit for your CEREC crown.
3. Digital Imaging: Instead of messy molds, we use state-of-the-art digital imaging technology to create a 3D model of your tooth. This model is used to precisely craft your custom porcelain crown.
4. Crown Creation: The 3D model is sent to the CEREC milling machine, which sculpts your dental crown from a durable ceramic block. This process only takes a short time, allowing you to relax in our office while your crown is made.
5. Crown Placement: Once your CEREC crown is ready, Dr. Gray or Dr. Hurtado will fit it to your tooth, make any necessary adjustments, and then permanently bond it in place. You leave the office with a fully restored smile—all in one visit!

Benefits of CEREC Same-Day Crowns

• Convenience: No more waiting for weeks between appointments or dealing with temporary crowns. With one-visit crowns, you get your permanent crown in just one day.
• Comfort: CEREC crowns eliminate the need for uncomfortable molds and temporary crowns, making the process much smoother for patients.
• Precision: CEREC technology uses digital scans to ensure a precise fit, creating crowns that feel natural and blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• Durability: Crafted from high-quality ceramic, CEREC crowns are strong and durable, providing long-lasting results.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The porcelain crowns created by CEREC are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. They are designed to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth, giving you a brilliant, confident smile.

The Solution for Busy Patients

If you’re looking for a fast, effective, and beautiful way to restore your smile, CEREC one-visit crowns are the ideal choice. Whether you’re dealing with a broken tooth, an old crown that needs replacing, or other dental issues, this advanced solution provides lasting results in a single visit.

Get your CEREC crown today and experience the convenience of same-day crowns in La Mesa, El Cajon, and San Diego! Call Espire Dental today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Jeff Gray or Dr. Greg Hurtado. Your dream smile is just one visit away!

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Teeth Whitening at Home

If you prefer the convenience of whitening your teeth in the comfort of your own home, we offer custom-made teeth whitening trays that fit snugly over your teeth. These trays are designed to hold the whitening gel in place while ensuring even distribution across all surfaces of your teeth. Dr. Gray will provide you with a supply of professional-grade teeth bleaching gel to use with your custom trays.

At-home tooth whitening typically takes between 7-14 days to achieve the desired results, with most patients noticing a difference within the first few applications. Unlike over-the-counter products, our custom trays are tailored to fit your teeth perfectly, reducing the risk of irritation to your gums and ensuring the most effective results.

Teeth Whitening Options: Which is Right for You?

Both in-office and at-home teeth whitening options have their benefits, and the best choice depends on your personal needs, lifestyle, and the level of whitening you desire. In-office teeth bleaching offers fast, dramatic results in just one visit, making it an ideal choice for individuals who want to see immediate improvements. On the other hand, at-home tooth whitening is a more gradual process, allowing you to whiten your teeth on your own schedule.

Dr. Gray can help you determine which teeth whitening option is right for you during your consultation at our La Mesa office. Whether you're in El Cajon, San Diego, or surrounding areas, we’ll ensure that your teeth bleaching treatment is tailored to your unique needs.

Get On the Path to a Brighter Smile Today!

If you’re ready to achieve a brighter, more radiant smile, contact our La Mesa office today! We proudly serve patients from El Cajon, San Diego, and beyond. Let us help you achieve the white teeth you’ve always dreamed of with our professional teeth whitening treatments.

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Call Espire Dental in La Mesa and start your journey to a perfect smile today!

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