Implants

LivWell Dentistry Our Services Implants

LivWell Dentistry

Dentists located in San Francisco, CA & San Ramon, CA

Dr. Wenli Loo uses advanced implant restoration techniques which improve her patients’ smiles and confidence. She uses the most modern materials to help her patients in San Francisco and San Ramon, CA areas maintain bright and confident smiles with the help of the experts at LivWell Dentistry.

 

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Implants Q&A

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an installation which replaces a missing tooth or serves as an anchor for dentures. A metal, usually titanium, post is implanted directly into the jaw creating a synthetic root. Titanium is used in many types of prosthetics including artificial joints because it is inert and does not react chemically with bone. In implant supported bridges and dentures, the post serves as an anchor to keep the device securely in place. When replacing a lost tooth, implant abutments are placed on the posts and serve as attachments for artificial teeth or crowns.

What Steps Are Involved in Receiving a Dental Implant?

Usually, dental implants take three visits to be fully installed. At the first appointment, the post will be implanted into the jaw. In some circumstances, a bone graft may be used to support the bone if the patient’s jaw is not strong or big enough to support the implant. If a graft is necessary, it can be placed at the same time as the implant. A few weeks later, after the post has time to fuse with the jaw, the patient will attend the second visit. During this visit, an abutment will be placed on the post and an impression will be made to serve as a mold for the creation of the crown, bridge, or denture. When the patient attends the last visit, the crown, denture, or bridge will be fitted and attached, which may involve buffing to create a comfortable fit.

How Long Do Implants Last?

With correct care, implants can last as long or longer than natural teeth. The materials used for the post and crown do not decay, however, the surrounding gum needs to be cleaned and cared for as it can still become infected. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check ups will still be needed to ensure the longevity of your implants and overall oral health.

Insurance

As a service to our patients, our practice accepts most dental insurance programs, including non-managed care, indemnity (traditional) and PPO out-of-network. We are not part of any managed care network. Our accounting staff will prepare all the necessary forms for your dental benefits. However, we remind you that your specific policy is an agreement between you and your insurance company. Please keep in mind that you are responsible for your total obligation should your insurance benefits result in less coverage than anticipated. Our staff will gladly submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so that you will know what your benefits will be. The fees charged for services rendered to those who are insured are the usual and customary fees charged to all our patients for similar services. Your policy may base its allowances on a fixed fee schedule, which may or may not coincide with our usual fees. You should be aware that different insurance companies vary greatly in the types of coverage available. Also, some companies take care of claims promptly while others delay payment for several months.