Types of Dental Implants: What Patients in Irvine Should Know

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jaw to support one or more replacement teeth. These posts act as artificial tooth roots and can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch. At Lasting Smiles in Irvine, we offer a variety of dental implant solutions in Irvine tailored to your needs — from standard implants to full-mouth reconstructions.

Single vs. Multiple Dental Implants in Irvine

Single-Tooth Implants

A single-tooth dental implant in Irvine is a highly effective solution for replacing one missing tooth. The process involves inserting a small titanium post into the jawbone, which then fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached, restoring full functionality and appearance. This option avoids the need to modify neighboring healthy teeth, unlike dental bridges.

Multiple-Tooth Implants

If you are missing several teeth in a row, multiple dental implants in Irvine may be placed to support an implant-supported bridge. Instead of placing an implant for every missing tooth, two or more implants can hold a bridge with multiple prosthetic teeth. This approach ensures stability, prevents bone loss, and helps maintain facial structure.

Full-Mouth Dental Implants

For patients who have lost most or all teeth in an arch, we offer advanced full-arch restorations such as:

• All-on-4 implants: Four strategically placed implants support a full arch of prosthetic teeth.
• 3-on-6 implants: Six implants are placed to support three bridges, offering a natural, gum-free look and feel.

These full-mouth dental implant options in Irvine are ideal for those who want a permanent alternative to traditional dentures.

Basic Types of Dental Implants Available in Irvine

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common and widely used type of dental implant in Irvine. They are typically screw-shaped and are placed directly into the jawbone. These implants are suitable for most patients and provide excellent long-term stability and support.

Subperiosteal Implants

When a patient has insufficient bone height or density and cannot undergo bone grafting, subperiosteal implants may be used. These implants rest on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. A custom metal framework is used to secure the prosthetic teeth.

Types of Dental Implant Materials in Irvine

At Lasting Smiles, we provide the highest quality dental implants in Irvine using biocompatible materials:

Titanium Implants

Titanium is the most widely used material for dental implants. It is biocompatible, strong, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight. Titanium has a long track record of success, and it encourages bone to grow around it, forming a strong and lasting bond (osseointegration).

Zirconia Implants

Zirconia is a ceramic, metal-free material that offers a natural tooth-colored appearance. It’s ideal for patients with metal sensitivities or who prefer a more aesthetic option, especially for front teeth.

Our team will guide you in choosing the best dental implant material in Irvine based on your oral health, bone density, and cosmetic goals.

Supportive Procedures for Dental Implants in Irvine

To improve your eligibility for dental implants in Irvine, our specialists may recommend the following procedures:

Bone Augmentation

Bone grafting helps restore volume and density in areas of bone loss, allowing for stable dental implant placement.

Sinus Lift

This procedure is necessary when placing dental implants in the upper back jaw. It increases bone height by lifting the sinus membrane and adding graft material.

Ridge Expansion

Used when the jawbone is too narrow, ridge expansion widens the bone to make room for dental implants.

Specialized Dental Implant Options for Irvine Patients

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)

Mini dental implants are ideal for patients with minimal bone volume or who require stabilization of lower dentures.

Immediate-Load Dental Implants

These same-day dental implants in Irvine allow for the placement of temporary crowns at the same time as the implant posts.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

The All-on-4 procedure in Irvine allows patients to receive a full set of teeth anchored by just four implants per arch.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Dental implant-supported dentures offer a more stable, comfortable option for Irvine patients who are tired of removable dentures.

Why Choose Lasting Smiles for Dental Implants in Irvine?

At Lasting Smiles Irvine, our team specializes in delivering customized and long-lasting dental implant solutions. With decades of experience and advanced technology, we provide:

• High-precision 3D imaging and planning
• A wide range of dental implant types and techniques
• Sedation dentistry for comfortable procedures
• Full-arch options like All-on-4 and snap-on dentures
• Transparent pricing and personalized care

We’re proud to be the trusted provider for dental implants in Irvine, helping patients restore their smile, confidence, and function every day.

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward your new smile with expert dental implant care in Irvine.