Dental Implants in San Diego
Discover everything you need to know about dental implants in San Diego—a long-lasting replacement for one or more missing teeth.
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$75/mo
Dental Implants in San Diego
Discover everything you need to know about dental implants in San Diego—a long-lasting replacement for one or more missing teeth.
What are dental implants and when to get them?
San Diego dental implants consist of three main components:
The Implant:
The Abutment:
The Crown:
Cost of Dental Implants in San Diego for 2024
For individual dental implants in San Diego, the out-of-pocket cost ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, which includes the assessment, surgery, and placement of your implant, abutment, and crown. No two surgeries are exactly alike, and the varying complexity of your case accounts for the pricing differences. The final cost of all-on-4 dental implants in San Diego for one arch ranges from $14,000 to $20,000. All-in, full-mouth dental implants in San Diego cost between $30,000 and $50,000.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
Yes, many dental insurance plans cover dental implants when they are deemed medically necessary. Circumstances like traumatic injury, severe decay leading to tooth loss, or conditions causing significant functional impairment may qualify for coverage. At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, our team is here to help you navigate your insurance benefits and determine if your situation qualifies.
Even if your dental implant surgery is mainly for cosmetic reasons, your insurance might cover related costs, like consultations, x-rays, extractions or bone grafts, anesthesia, and the crown. Feel free to chat with our team to explore your coverage options. For those without insurance coverage for dental implants in San Diego, we have trusted third-party financing options available with payments as low as $75/month.
Meet Our San Diego Dental Implant Dentists
With over 50 years of combined experience as San Diego dental implant dentists, Ramin Ghassemi, DDS, MS, and Nina Mojaver, DMD, have post-doctoral training and advanced certification in periodontics, implantology, and full-mouth reconstructions. Dr. Mojaver completed postdoctoral studies at the Harvard School of Medicine and specializes in cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Ghassemi earned his doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Brussels and his master’s in periodontology at the University of Manchester in England. Using cone beam technology, 3D imaging, and laser technology, our team has expertise in resolving even the most complicated cases to replace missing teeth and effectively restore your oral health.
Dental Implant Types
Choosing the right dental implant is key to achieving a healthy-looking smile and functional results. Check out a brief overview of the dental implant types available at Fifth Avenue Dental Arts in San Diego and who they might be best suited for:
Single-Tooth Implant:
Suitable for patients with one or multiple missing teeth in different areas, this option is perfect for patients seeking a restoration that mirrors the look and function of their natural teeth. Single-tooth implants are perfect for those with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.
All-on-X (All-on-4, All-on-6):
This option is ideal for patients missing most or all teeth in one arch (upper or lower) seeking a full-arch restoration. It is also a great alternative for patients who want a stable, permanent alternative to conventional dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures:
These are suitable for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth but do not want or cannot have individual implants for each missing tooth. They offer a more secure fit compared to traditional dentures because the denture is anchored by implants.
Each of these dental implant types has its unique set of benefits catered to different needs and circumstances. Consulting with Dr. Ghassemi and Dr. Mojaver at Fifth Avenue Dental Arts will help you determine which option best suits your individual situation and goals for restoring your smile in San Diego.
Dental Implants Process
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many health benefits that go beyond just a beautiful smile. They work like natural teeth, improving your oral and overall health. One key perk is how they help preserve jawbone density. When teeth are missing, the jawbone can shrink, affecting facial structure and other teeth. When dental implants step in, they keep your bone strong and your face looking its best!
When you have missing teeth, it can sometimes lead to neighboring teeth moving into those empty spaces. This shift might cause alignment issues, make chewing harder, and raise the risk of gum disease. Dental implants fill those gaps, keeping your teeth in place, preserving your bite, and supporting healthier gums.
Leaving missing teeth unaddressed can actually increase the risk of gum disease because those gaps between the teeth can trap food and bacteria. This impacts oral hygiene and can also affect your overall health, connecting to issues like heart disease and diabetes. Dental implants help keep your smile healthy because they can be looked after just like your natural teeth.
Highlighting the efficiency of dental implants, it’s important to note that they boast a remarkable 95% success rate, beating the outcomes of traditional bridges and dentures. Unlike bridges and dentures that might need replacement or tweaking over time, dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They look and feel like your natural teeth, letting you enjoy a regular diet without restrictions.
With dental implants, you get stability and security and improved speech and comfort. Say goodbye to concerns about loose dentures! If you’re looking for a dependable, long-lasting fix for missing teeth, dental implants are the way to go. They’re an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, we bring back smiles with precision and care.
How long do dental implants take to heal?
For single-tooth implant patients, you can expect some discomfort, soreness, and mild bleeding for 24-48 hours following surgery. Any pain and sensitivity typically subside in 7–14 days, and the dental implant will continue to bond with the jawbone over 3 to 6 months before the final crown placement.
Patients receiving multiple implants experience minor swelling and discomfort for 72 to 96 hours, returning to a regular diet within 7–14 days, assuming you did not have any grafting. Depending on the individual’s oral health and the number of implants placed, healing continues for 4 to 6 months before the final crowns are placed.
For implant supported denture patients, the initial healing process involves mild pain, and swelling in the jawbone, chin, and cheeks for 7-10 days, at which time patients can return to a regular menu. To fully integrate the implants within the jawbone, the full healing process takes 9 to 12 months, or longer when bone grafting is also required. The final denture is securely attached when the healing process is complete.
The initial all-on-4 dental implant healing process takes up to 3 weeks, especially if bone grafting is required. Patients follow a liquid and soft food diet for 48–72 hours, at which time many return to eating normally. The final healing process before the prosthetic placement lasts 3 to 6 months.
Full-mouth dental implants patients require 6 to 8 months for proper integration and healing before the final restoration can be completed.
During healing, the titanium screw (implant) must integrate with the bone (osseointegration) to provide a stable foundation for new teeth. Patients will have a temporary restoration for functional aesthetics and protection, improving speech, chewing, and appearance, while the implant site heals for the final restoration. Fifth Avenue Dental Arts is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care throughout every stage; we ensure your comfort and satisfaction with your new smile.
Patient Stories
Implant-Supported Dentures vs All-on-4 Dental Implants
At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, we’re proud to offer implant-supported dentures and All-on-4 dental implants for patients seeking full mouth restoration or replacement of upper/lower arches. Each option caters to different needs and preferences — there’s a solution for every situation!
Implant-Supported Dentures
Benefits: Implant-supported dentures provide a stable and secure fit, significantly reducing the movement associated with traditional dentures. This stability improves comfort and functionality, allowing you to eat a wider range of foods and speak with confidence.
Cost Differences: Implant-supported dentures are generally more affordable than some full-mouth dental implant solutions. The cost is influenced by the number of implants and the materials of the prosthetics.
Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, implant-supported dentures can last many years. The longevity of the implants themselves can be a lifetime with diligent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Important Maintenance: Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist are essential. Periodic adjustments may be required to ensure the denture remains a perfect fit over time.
All-on-4 Dental Implants
Benefits: All-on-4 dental implants offer a permanent, fixed solution that closely copies natural teeth. This option provides exceptional stability and appearance and eliminates the need for denture adhesives.
Cost Differences: The initial cost of All-on-4 dental implants is higher compared to implant-supported dentures, primarily due to the surgical expertise required. However, considering their longevity and reduced need for replacement, they can be more cost-effective in the long term.
Longevity: Designed to last a lifetime, all-on-4 dental implants are a long-term investment in your oral health. Their durability and stability are superior, requiring fewer replacements than traditional dentures.
Standard Maintenance: Like natural teeth, All-on-4 dental implants require consistent oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. The simplicity of their care is one of their most appreciated advantages.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Both implant-supported dentures and All-on-4 dental implants offer great benefits. The choice between the two comes down to your needs, budget, and lifestyle. At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, we understand the importance of providing personalized options to our patients. Whether choosing implant-supported dentures or All-on-4 dental implants, we’re committed to restoring smiles with the highest standard of dental excellence.
Are There Any Reasons Not to Get Dental Implants?
There are instances where dental implants are not the right dental solution for a patient. At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, we evaluate every patient with thorough and individualized care to determine the best course of action for your oral health restoration. Here are some of the reasons why we may not recommend dental implants:
- Age restrictions: Many patients under the age of 18 are still developing skelatal maturity. We do not recommend dental implants below the age of 16 for female patients or below the age of 17 for male patients.
- Osteoporosis: Some patients have severe osteoporosis, which requires unique assessment, expertise, and strategy. Though most of the time we are able to successfully overcome this condition, there are times when we may not recommend dental implants.
- Smoking: Smokers have an increased risk of dental implant failure. The success of the dental implant procedure often requires quitting for a period of time before treatment.
- Uncontrolled diabetes: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes may need to stabilize their condition before proceeding with dental implants.
- Gum disease: The presence of gum disease can affect the overall outcome of the procedure and may require treatment prior to undergoing any dental implant procedure in San Diego.
- Jaw irradiation: Prior jaw irradiation can pose challenges, and additional precautions may be needed during the dental procedure.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Most dental implant screws will last a lifetime with regular brushing and flossing. Though the implant and abutment can stay strong for decades, the crown of the implant may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. It all depends on things like wear and tear and the material used for the crown.
The key to extending the lifespan of your dental implants is giving them the same TLC as your natural teeth. That means sticking to a solid home dental care routine with regular brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouthwash. Remember those routine dental checkups and cleanings, too! They keep your implants healthy but also catch any issues early on. With these habits, you’re setting up your dental implants for lasting success and looking out for your smile!
Dental Implants FAQs
All-on-4 dental implants are a full arch replacement solution using only four implants per arch. They provide immediate function and are designed for people with significant tooth loss or decay.
The recovery time varies but generally ranges from 2 to 6 months for the initial fusion process, with full integration taking from 6 to 8 months.
Patients can usually return to a normal diet within a week after the implant surgery, gradually introducing harder foods as comfort and healing allow.
Cleaning involves regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, similar to natural teeth, to maintain oral health and implant longevity.
The cost reflects the intricate procedure, the materials involved, and the specialized training needed to place dental implants effectively. Even though it’s an initial investment, their durability and long-term benefits often make them an essential solution for lifetime tooth replacement.
