Dental Implants
Natural-looking, permanent tooth replacement that restores full function and helps preserve the bone beneath your smile.
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone that fuses with the bone over time, then topped with a custom crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Unlike bridges or dentures, implants are permanent and require no support from adjacent teeth.
Implants offer superior comfort, function, and appearance compared to other tooth replacement options. Because the implant replaces both the visible tooth and the root, it preserves your jawbone structure and prevents the facial changes that occur with tooth loss. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health.
Dr. Mercado has extensive experience placing and restoring implants. We work with trusted specialists when surgical placement is needed, then Dr. Mercado crafts your custom implant crown to create a restoration that's indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
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Why Choose Implants Over Other Options
Missing teeth create multiple problems. Beyond the obvious appearance issue, missing teeth cause bite problems, difficulty chewing and speaking, and shifting of remaining teeth. Most significantly, missing teeth lead to bone loss in the jaw. Without the stimulation of a tooth root, the jawbone gradually shrinks and deteriorates, changing your facial structure and appearance.
Dental implants solve these problems. The titanium implant post replaces the tooth root, providing stimulation to the jawbone that prevents bone loss. This preserves your facial structure and the natural shape of your face. Unlike bridges that require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth, implants stand alone. Unlike dentures that are removable and require daily care, implants are permanent and maintained like natural teeth.
Implants have a higher success rate than bridges or dentures, and with proper care, they last indefinitely. They feel and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.
The Implant Process
The implant process begins with a comprehensive evaluation and 3D imaging to assess your jawbone and determine implant placement. If you're a suitable candidate, the titanium implant post is surgically placed into your jawbone. You'll wear a temporary crown while the implant heals and integrates with the bone over several months.
Once the implant has fused securely with your jawbone, we proceed with the restorative phase. Dr. Mercado takes impressions and creates a custom crown matched to your natural teeth color and shape. The crown is attached to the implant with a special connector called an abutment. The result is a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Maintain your implant like a natural tooth with daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings. Avoid smoking, which can compromise implant success, and report any concerns to Dr. Mercado immediately. With proper care, your implant will serve you for decades or a lifetime.
Restore Your Smile Permanently
Schedule an implant consultation to explore this permanent tooth replacement solution.