If you're considering getting an implant, you'll most certainly have questions for Dr. Ramyar Elyassian of Dental Implant and Laser Surgical Specialists. You might be wondering how a dental implant compares to a real tooth. Let's look at some of the differences between implants and natural teeth.

It should be noted that one of the primary goals of implant dentistry is to try to provide the same form and function as your natural teeth. However, with that in mind, know that an implant is not a tooth. An implant does not decay and does not have dental pulp or periodontal membrane-like teeth.

An implant won't always work in every case, but they do have some great advantages when they are called for. Some advantages of getting an implant in Tustin, CA, include:

• Often last for decades without needing to be replaced
• Create a functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement for your missing tooth
• Don't require surrounding teeth for support
• Do not decay like natural teeth
• Are able to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth

There are downsides to implants where natural teeth win out. The disadvantages of implants include:

• Higher cost compared to traditional dentistry
• It's a surgical procedure that requires a period of healing afterward
• Since there is no cushion between the implant and the bone, fracturing of crowns and bridges is more common with implants than with natural teeth, though this is rare

It's best to speak with Dr. Ramyar Elyassian of Dental Implant and Laser Surgical Specialists about your options regarding implants. Let us know what you want to achieve and we'll work with you as best we can to accomplish that. And don't hesitate to contact our Tustin, CA, office at (714) 730-3746 for further questions about the procedure.