
Losing a tooth isn’t just about appearances. It affects the foundation of your oral health, particularly your jawbone. At Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Charlotte Etesse and Dr. Travis Steinberg are dedicated to helping patients preserve their smiles and maintain long-term oral health. With advancements in modern dentistry like dental implants, they provide solutions that not only restore your smile but also protect your jawbone from potential deterioration.
Dental implants mimic the structure of natural teeth, replacing not just the visible crown but also the critical tooth root. This innovation ensures that your jaw remains healthy and strong, providing benefits that go far beyond aesthetics.
Why Jawbone Health Matters
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in the area where the tooth root was once anchored begins to deteriorate. This phenomenon, known as bone resorption, can pose serious challenges over time. Without stimulation from the tooth root, the bone can shrink, altering facial structure. Over time, this leads to sunken cheeks, making a person appear older. Shifting teeth are another common issue, as missing teeth compromise the alignment of the surrounding teeth, causing changes to your bite and increasing the likelihood of further tooth loss.
Aside from cosmetic concerns, jawbone deterioration can create significant oral health challenges. It weakens the structural support for remaining teeth and intensifies the risk of gum disease. Simply put, maintaining jawbone health is critical to your overall oral well-being.
How Dental Implants Preserve Jawbone Health
Dental implants offer a groundbreaking solution by mimicking the natural function of tooth roots. They are small posts, either titanium or zirconia, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that rest on the surface of the gums, implants physically integrate with your bone, ensuring a stable and permanent foundation.
Once the implant is placed, the surrounding bone begins to grow and fuse with it in a process called osseointegration. This process not only keeps the implant firmly anchored but also stimulates bone regeneration, preventing further bone loss. Dental implants also play a role in stabilizing your oral structure. They fill the gap left by missing teeth, preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of place and ensuring your bite remains intact.
Types of Dental Implants at Etesse Holistic and Cosmetic Dentistry
At Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Etesse and Dr. Steinberg offer two primary types of dental implants to meet the diverse needs of their patients. Traditional titanium implants have been a trusted solution for decades, offering exceptional durability and strength. These implants are well-researched and renowned for their long-term success rates.
For patients looking for a biocompatible, metal-free alternative, zirconia (ceramic) implants are an excellent option. Hypoallergenic and resistant to corrosion, these implants appeal to those seeking a holistic approach to oral health. The Straumann Pure ceramic implant system, exclusively available at Etesse, exemplifies this advanced and minimally invasive option, merging cutting-edge technology with patient comfort.
The Dental Implant Process at Etesse Holistic and Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Etesse and Dr. Steinberg take a personalized approach to ensure every dental implant procedure is a success. The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including state-of-the-art CT scans that map out your unique oral structure.
Following this planning phase, the implant placement is performed on-site by a board-certified periodontist. Precision is key during this step, ensuring the implant integrates seamlessly with the surrounding bone. To speed up healing, Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry uses Platelet-Rich Fibrin therapy, promoting faster recovery and reducing discomfort.
Once the implants have fully integrated, the final restoration is fitted. These customized crowns are carefully designed for a natural look and feel, ensuring that your smile is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants
Ideal candidates for dental implants are those with good oral health and adequate bone density. However, even if low bone density is a concern, solutions like bone grafts or sinus lifts can make implants a viable option. Dr. Etesse and Dr. Steinberg specialize in these advanced procedures, providing hope to patients who may feel limited by their current oral health status.
Restore Confidence with Dental Implants
Protecting your jawbone health is essential to maintaining a healthy and youthful smile, and dental implants make it possible. At Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Charlotte Etesse and Dr. Travis Steinberg bring years of expertise, ensuring your smile gets the care it deserves.
For residents of Solana Beach and Encinitas, the first step is simple. Schedule a consultation today and discover how dental implants can transform your oral health and protect your jawbone for years to come.
Contact Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry:
(858) 947-1452