Dr. Stephen G. Alfano is a specialist performing implant surgery. Balboa Island Dentistry, located on Marine Avenue, can meet the toughest implant surgery needs in a caring, welcoming environment.
Implant Surgery Q & A
What is Implant Surgery?
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in the mouth. An alternative to traditional adhesive bridges or dentures, dental implants look and act like regular teeth, giving the patient a beautiful smile along with the ability to bite and chew without discomfort. Furthermore, dental implants have been shown to maintain the bone mass in the jaw and prevent the further loss of other teeth due to improper biting and tooth misalignment.
How is Implant Surgery Done?
A patient may be placed under sedation to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure. A titanium screw is surgically placed into the bone of the jaw to act as the root of a natural tooth. The surgical site is then allowed to heal and the screw becomes a part of the bone, able to withstand the biting and chewing forces of the tooth that will be attached. This healing process usually takes four months during which time Dr. Alfano monitors the healing process. Once the screw has healed in place, a crown, bridge or denture can be placed on top giving the patient a beautiful, functional smile. In select cases, a temporary tooth may be placed on the implant the day of surgery.
Can Implant Surgery Be Used to Secure Dentures?
Implant surgery can be used to secure dentures, eliminating some of the common problems associated with using adhesives. After implant surgery, dentures can still be removed for regular cleaning and hygiene procedures. They fit securely in the mouth, giving the patient the ability to bite, chew, and speak as though they have had their permanent teeth restored. With over 20 years of experience performing implant dentistry, Dr. Alfano has been on the forefront of new techniques that reduce recovery time for his patients. In addition to traditional implants, Dr. Alfano offers the All-on-4™ immediate load implants. This procedure allows four implants to be placed without waiting for the bone to heal. This revolutionary implant procedure permanently holds your dentures in place and can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing immediately. For more information on surgical implants or the All-on-4™ method, contact Balboa Island Dentistry.