Dental Implants
Permanent solutions to restore your smile.
This service
Dental Implants
Permanent solutions to restore your smile.
Dental Implants
The Most Natural Replacement for Missing Teeth 🦷
Dental implants are the gold standard solution for replacing missing teeth. They restore your smile, improve chewing ability, and help maintain the health of your jawbone for years to come.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant replaces both the root and visible portion of a missing tooth.
The implant (root portion) is placed by the surgeon, Dr. Ricardo Ortiz, and the final crown is typically completed by your restorative dentist.
A small titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth once was. Over time, the bone bonds naturally with the implant, creating a strong and stable foundation. A connector (abutment) and a custom-designed crown are then attached to restore your smile and chewing function.
In many cases, temporary teeth can be placed the same day as surgery, so you do not have to go without a smile during healing.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who:
• Are missing one or more teeth
• Are tired of loose or uncomfortable dentures
• Want a permanent alternative to bridges
• Want to restore confidence in their smile
Age alone is not a limiting factor.
However, younger patients must have completed jaw growth before implant placement.
Factors that may influence healing and implant success include:
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Previous radiation therapy to the jaw
• Medications used to treat osteoporosis (such as bisphosphonates)
• Periodontal (gum) disease
We evaluate jawbone quality using advanced 3D imaging technology. If necessary, bone grafting procedures can help prepare the area for successful implant placement.
Tooth Replacement Options: Implants vs. Other Options
Dental Implants
• Permanent and stable
• Preserve jawbone health
• Do not affect neighboring teeth
• Look and function like natural teeth
• Designed to last many years—often a lifetime
Fixed Bridges
• Supported by neighboring teeth
• Require reshaping healthy adjacent teeth
• Typically last 5–10 years before replacement
• Removing enamel from adjacent teeth may increase long-term cavity risk
Removable Partial Dentures (Flippers or Metal Partials)
• Removable replacement option
• Often used as temporary solutions
• Less stable than implants
• May contribute to bone loss over time
• Can place additional stress on supporting teeth
Complete Dentures
• Used when all teeth are missing
• Stability depends on bone support
• Stability and comfort can be significantly improved with implant support
Why Patients Choose Dental Implants ⭐
Long-Term Solution
Dental implants are the closest replacement to natural teeth and can last decades with proper care.
Protect Your Jawbone
Implants help prevent bone loss and preserve natural facial contours.
Eat Comfortably Again
Enjoy your favorite foods with confidence.
Speak Clearly and Smile Confidently
No slipping dentures. No adhesives. Just a natural-feeling smile.
Personalized Implant Care at Our Practice
As a dual-degree MD, DMD oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Ricardo Ortiz provides advanced implant care using precise surgical planning and modern techniques to help ensure safe, predictable results.
Every implant case is planned using 3D imaging to help protect important structures such as nerves and sinuses while optimizing implant position for long-term function and aesthetics.
Every treatment plan is customized to your needs, comfort level, and long-term goals.
How the Implant Process Works
Implant Procedure Overview
1. Consultation & Planning
Comprehensive exam with 3D imaging to plan implant placement safely and precisely.
2. Surgery
Comfortable procedure performed with local anesthesia and sedation options. A titanium implant is placed into the jawbone through a small incision.
3. Healing Phase
The bone fuses with the implant over several weeks to months. A healing cap or abutment may be placed during this stage.
4. Restoration
Your dentist places the permanent crown, bridge, or denture after healing. Temporary teeth may be provided during this period when appropriate.
5. Timeline
Treatment may take 1 to 12 months, depending on healing and case complexity.
6. Single-Stage Implant Options
Some patients may qualify for procedures that eliminate the need for a second surgical stage.
7. Immediate Implant Placement
In select cases, implants can be placed at the time of tooth extraction.
Schedule your consultation today and discover the right path for your unique transformation!
