Designed like natural teeth, dental implants promote lasting health and a lifetime of smiles
Dental implants are one of the most natural-looking and feeling ways to fill in gaps left by missing teeth. Skilled dentist Cheng Zhu, DMD, and his team at Freedom Dental in Fairfield, California, offer dental implants to restore your smile’s look and function. Call the office at (707) 416-0626 or book online to learn if you’re a candidate for dental implants.
Dental Implants Q & A
What are dental implants?
A dental implant consists of a metal post inserted into your jawbone. Dr. Zhu then attaches a crown to the post to complete your smile.Â
If you’ve lost a tooth to injury, decay, or gum disease, a dental implant may be an effective replacement.
Why are dental implants an ideal option for replacing missing teeth?
Dental implants are a smart alternative to bridges or dentures. They look and feel like your natural teeth and don’t slip and slide like dentures. Dental implants are crafted from state-of-the-art materials and continually stimulate your jawbone like a natural tooth root would, preventing bone degradation.
Other benefits of dental implants include:

- A permanent solution to missing teeth
- Comfortable fit
- Natural appearance
- Cost-effectiveness
- Preservation of facial structure and volume
You care for dental implants just like you do your natural teeth. They don’t require separate soaking or messy adhesives. Dental implants can replace one or two missing teeth or provide an anchor for an entire row of implant-supported dentures.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Dr. Zhu reviews your oral health, including jawbone integrity and gum health, to determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. You qualify for an implant if:
- You’re missing one or more teeth
- Your gums are healthy
- Your jaw has finished growing
- You want to replace a bridge
- You desire a permanent solution
The team at Freedom Dental has years of experience in placing dental implants and is skilled at identifying the right candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term tooth-replacement solution and can last for decades with proper care. Many patients keep their implants for a lifetime by maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits. Factors such as smoking, gum health, and daily habits can affect longevity. Compared to bridges or dentures, implants generally offer greater durability.
Are dental implants painful?
The implant procedure itself is typically performed with local anesthesia, so patients usually feel little to no pain during placement. Afterward, some soreness or swelling is normal but manageable with medication and rest. Most patients describe recovery discomfort as mild and temporary. Healing improves steadily over the following days.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on individual needs, location, and treatment complexity. Factors include the number of implants, the type of restoration, and whether additional procedures are required. While implants may have a higher upfront cost, they often provide long-term value. A consultation is the best way to receive a personalized estimate and review financing or insurance options.
What are the risks or complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants have a high success rate, but, like any procedure, they carry risks. Possible complications include infection, implant failure, or nerve irritation, though serious issues are uncommon. Choosing an experienced dental provider and following post-treatment instructions greatly reduces risk. Proper care supports successful healing and long-term stability.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Dental implants should be cared for like natural teeth. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental checkups are essential. Avoiding smoking and chewing hard objects helps protect the implant. Consistent oral hygiene supports both implant health and the surrounding gum tissue.
Can everyone get dental implants?
Not everyone is an immediate candidate for dental implants. Adequate bone density and healthy gums are important for implant support. Some patients may need preparatory treatments before placement. A dental evaluation helps determine whether implants are suitable for your individual situation.
What should I expect during the recovery period after getting dental implants?
Recovery occurs in stages and varies from patient to patient. Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising is common at first and gradually subsides. Patients are often advised to eat soft foods and avoid strenuous activity during the early healing phase. Follow-up visits allow the dentist to monitor integration and progress.
Can dental implants help prevent bone loss?
Yes, dental implants help preserve jawbone by stimulating it during chewing. When a tooth is missing, bone loss can occur over time. Implants replace the tooth root, helping maintain bone structure and facial support. This benefit sets implants apart from many other tooth replacement options.
How long does the full dental implant process take?
The complete implant process can take several months, depending on healing needs. After placement, the implant needs time to fuse with the bone before the final restoration is attached. While the timeline is longer than some alternatives, many patients feel the long-term results are worth the wait.
Are dental implants noticeable once placed?
Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. The final crown is custom-made to match the surrounding teeth in shape and color. Most people cannot tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth. This natural appearance is a major reason patients choose implants.
What is the process for getting a dental implant?
If you’re a candidate for a dental implant, your first visit consists of surgically placing the metal post in your jawbone. It takes several weeks or months for the post to integrate with the bone.
You return to the office when the post is sturdy, and Dr. Zhu places an abutment on the metal post where he attaches your custom crown. You’re then ready to smile and bite with a complete, functional set of teeth.
To learn more about how dental implants can complete your smile, call Freedom Dental at (707) 416-0626, or book an appointment online today.
Dental implants are titanium roots, that are replaced with in the jawbone to resemble a tooth or group of teeth. A screw is inserted through the gums and into the jawbone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prosthesis including crowns, dentures, and bridges. Today’s treatments are so natural looking, no one will know you had surgery. There’s approximately a 95% success rate for all implants. With modern advances in dentistry, some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.

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