Same Day Implants Honolulu & Oahu
Same Day Implants provided by Dr. Haruki and Dr. Oishi in Honolulu & Oahu, HI at Pacific Maxillofacial Center
Replace Missing or Damaged Teeth
Welcome to Pacific Maxillofacial Center, your premier destination for oral & maxillofacial surgery and dental implants in Honolulu and Waipi'o. Our skilled oral surgery team is committed to offering excellent care and advanced solutions for your dental implant needs.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants represent the most impressive tooth replacement option in dentistry. They are permanent and come just about as close to a real tooth as, well, real teeth. Our oral surgeons place dental implants in the jawbone to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or a full set of missing teeth. They are an extremely popular option among most of our nearby Honolulu and West Oahu patients!
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Am I A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a good option for most people with healthy gums and fully developed jawbones. What's more, you should have enough bone to anchor and support the implants. However, everyone's situation is different, so it's important to talk to one of our experienced oral surgeons. We will consider your overall health, lifestyle, and specific dental concerns to see if you are a good candidate.
Types of Dental Implants
At Pacific Maxillofacial Center we offer a variety of dental implants, including:
• | Same day/Immediate implants
- Same day implants provide a quick and efficient option for patients who want to improve their smile in a single appointment. This time-saving option not only reduces costs but also makes it more accessible for those with busy schedules. Overall, it simplifies the process of restoring your smile, making it easier and more efficient. |
• | Mini dental implants - Mini dental implants are smaller versions of traditional implants used to replace missing teeth and support dental prosthetics. They are suitable for patients with low bone density or space constraints. Despite their size, they offer stable support and doctors insert them through a minimally invasive procedure. They offer a convenient and efficient option for tooth replacement when traditional implants are not feasible. |
• | Single tooth implant
- A single implant providing a permanent solution for replacing a missing tooth, restoring both function and aesthetics seamlessly. |
• | Multiple tooth implants
- Multiple implants are a great option for replacing several missing teeth. They can help restore oral function, improve chewing ability, and give you a natural-looking smile. |
• | Implant-supported dentures
- Implant-supported dentures use dental implants to support bridges or crowns to replace missing teeth. They offer improved stability, comfort, and a more natural appearance compared to traditional dentures. |
• | All-on-4® Treatment Concept - this system provides a full-arch restoration using only four implants per jaw, instead of the usual six to eight implants. |
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How Dental Implants Work
Since implants are fused into your jawbone, they provide firm support for artificial teeth. Bridges and dentures mounted to implants will not shift or slip in your mouth, especially when speaking or eating. This makes individual crowns placed with implants feel more natural than conventional dentures and bridges. To receive dental implants, you need to have adequate bone and healthy gums to support the implant. In addition to that, you need to commit to keeping these structures healthy.
Preparation Before the Procedure
If there are no bone problems and you are suitable for the installation of a dental implant, the first thing to do is to undergo an x-ray of the mouth. It is a necessary examination to know the anatomical information of the mouth. That way, when your implants are created, they match how your mouth is set up.
From there, we will install the posts into your jaw. Then, we cap them off with temporary crowns until the posts fuse with the surrounding bone. Once the healing is complete, we will have you come in and get the permanent implant that will attach to your implant. We will adjust it so that it sits comfortably atop your implants, and then you get to return to eating your favorite foods and smiling without feeling awkward.
Despite good dental care, many people experience tooth loss due to injury, tooth decay, or gum disease. For many years, the only options for people who lost their teeth were dentures and bridges. However, nowadays, dental implants are available.
Dental implants are metal posts that are positioned into the jawbone beneath the gums which act as an anchor for an artificial tooth. This artificial tooth is custom-made to match the color of your teeth and fit the person’s mouth. It has crowns that look, function, and feel like a natural tooth. Our oral surgeons at Pacific Maxillofacial Center have vast experience in implant surgery to help provide exactly the care and treatment that you need.
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Implant Surgery: Step-by-Step
Embark on a guided journey through the implant surgery process, ensuring confidence and clarity every step of the way. First, our expert team will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine your unique treatment plan. Then, on the day of surgery, you'll be comfortably prepped for the procedure. Our skilled oral surgeons will precisely place the implants into your jawbone, utilizing advanced techniques for optimal results. Afterward, you'll receive thorough post-operative instructions to aid in a smooth recovery. Trust in our commitment to excellence as we guide you through this transformative experience with precision and care.
Our Oral Surgeons Transform Smiles with Dental Implants
At Pacific Maxillofacial Center, our oral surgeons Drs. Todd K. Haruki, DDS, MD, and Neil Oishi, DDS, MD, offer expertise and compassion in dental implant procedures. Dr. Haruki's return to Hawaii after extensive training on the mainland led to the establishment of our center in 1999, reflecting our deep roots in the community. With degrees from esteemed institutions such as the University of Washington, UCLA, and the University of Louisville, along with board certifications and active involvement in professional organizations, Dr. Haruki’s commitment to excellence is unwavering.
Dr. Oishi, with a solid foundation in oral and maxillofacial surgery from the University of Florida, is dedicated to patient well-being. He’s proud to give back to the community through programs such as "Give Kids a Smile", and by serving as an on-call facial trauma surgeon at Queen's Medical Center. With board certifications and memberships in professional organizations, our collective priority is to provide trustworthy and proficient care, ensuring our patients receive the highest quality treatment for their dental implant needs.
Benefits of Replacing Your Teeth with Implants
If you have lost a permanent tooth due to tooth decay or injury, there are numerous reasons why you should seek a dental implant.
Implants Preserve Your Jawbone
Dental implants are placed surgically into your jaw. These implant posts will stimulate your jawbone just like natural tooth roots do. If the jawbone does not have these roots, you have a high risk of developing jawbone atrophy. Therefore, dental implants will help to preserve your jawbone while assisting to maintain the structure and integrity of your mouth.
Dental Implants Function and Look Like Your Natural Teeth
Dental implants do a great job of functioning and looking like a natural tooth whenever you need a replacement. Implants are aesthetically pleasing and no one will know that you have an implant. Dental implants allow you to continue to floss, brush or eat as you did before.
Implants Are Convenient and Versatile
Dental implants can replace a full arch of teeth or just one tooth. This means that implants are comparable choices for both dentures and bridges. Implants are also convenient since they are easy to clean and maintain, do not require overnight soaking, and do not need messy adhesives.
If you are struggling to eat comfortably or embarrassed by a missing tooth, do not put off replacing your tooth. Having dental implants will help protect your jaw integrity, restore the functionality of your mouth and boost your confidence.
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Aftercare for Dental Implants: Essential Tips
After implant surgery, consistently following aftercare instructions is extremely important. Here are some tips:
• | Maintain a soft-food diet and diligent oral hygiene practices to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. |
• | Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled, allowing our team to monitor your progress and address any concerns promptly. |
• | Embrace patience as your implants integrate with the jawbone, gradually restoring strength and stability. |
While these are just some basic suggestions on how to care for your implants after surgery, our oral surgery team will provide you with more detailed instructions after going through the actual procedure.
Common Questions & Concerns
Having dental implants placed is a big decision in your oral health care. Dental implants are permanently fixed into your mouth, so it is something you want to be sure of before you undergo dental implant surgery. There are several commonly asked questions in regard to dental implant surgery. Here are the questions our patients ask our Honolulu & Oahu oral surgeons the most!
Are Dental Implants Better Than Dentures?
Most people are familiar with dentures, as they have been around a long time. Dentures are artificial teeth placed on a gum-like structure and then placed into your mouth. Dentures are removable. Many people are happy with dentures, but they do come with some care and drawbacks. Dentures need to be replaced approximately every five to seven years. Over time they can begin to warp and do not fit as snugly as they originally did. Because dentures are not permanent in your mouth, they can slip, and even fall out. This can cause embarrassment and challenges while eating and talking. Dentures do require special cleansers to be soaked in at night, and adhesives to help them stay in place securely.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent tooth replacements. They look and act just like your natural teeth. Dental implants do not require any special cleansers, tools, or products to be purchased. You simply continue with your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice daily, and flossing at least once per day. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush, so as to avoid scratching your dental implants, or harming your gums. By having dental implants, your jaw bone is being strengthened by constantly being stimulated with your new teeth. Jawbones without teeth deteriorate. That is why people with dentures will eventually suffer from jawbone loss. Taking dentures in and out daily is not enough to maintain a strong and sufficient jawbone.
Are There Age Restrictions for Getting Dental Implants?
Children and teenagers are not yet applicants for having dental implant surgery. This is because their jaw bone is not yet fully developed. Placing a dental implant into a prematurely formed jaw will result in dental implant failure. Therefore, you must be an adult, and have a fully developed jaw in order to receive dental implants. There is no age restriction for adults to receive dental implants.
Are There Any Health Conditions or Habits That Could Prevent Me From Getting Dental Implants?
In general, health conditions or habits that prevent you from healing appropriately may restrict someone from getting dental implants.
People who smoke or drink alcohol in excess fall under this category. Smoking restricts oxygen brought to your body and thus slows down your body’s ability to heal. It is highly suggested you quit smoking, if not permanently, at least during your dental implant process. The same goes with consuming alcoholic beverages.
If you have gum disease, you may not be eligible for dental implants. If it is in its earliest stages, you can have gum disease treated, and you will be able to get dental implants afterward. If, however, you have advanced gum disease, there is no cure, but only periodontal maintenance and care that can be provided for your gum disease.
Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Dental implants themselves cannot get cavities since they are made of materials like titanium or ceramic. However, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and other issues that can affect the health of the surrounding tissues and compromise the stability of the implants.
Do I Need to Be Missing All of My Teeth in Order to Get Dental Implants?
You do not need to be missing all of your teeth in order to get dental implants. Dental implants come in all shapes and sizes, depending on your tooth restoration needs.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Factors such as oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and lifestyle choices can influence the longevity of dental implants.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies from patient to patient. It typically depends on the type of restoration you need, the number of teeth missing, and whether or not additional bone grafting procedures are required to place the implants. However, dental implants can be cost-effective in the long run. Other restorations require repairs or replacement much more frequently than dental implants. These costs can add up over time.
If I Have Bone Loss, Can I Still Get Dental Implants?
If you do not currently have a sufficient amount of bone to support your dental implants, then you are not yet ready for dental implant surgery. You can, however, undergo a bone graft procedure first. After this procedure has been performed and your gums have healed, you can then move forward with the dental implantation process.
What Factors Can Increase the Risk of Complications During Implant Surgery?
Several factors can increase the risk of complications during dental implant surgery, including underlying health conditions such as diabetes or gum disease, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and inadequate bone quality or quantity at the implant site. It's important to discuss any potential risk factors with your oral surgeon before undergoing the procedure.
What Happens if I Don’t Replace My Missing Teeth?
Some people think they can ignore a missing tooth. The truth is, that is incorrect. Missing teeth cause gaps. These gaps will cause your other teeth to shift, and while this may seem advantageous, it is not. Gaps caused from missing teeth also create a breeding ground for bacteria. It is much easier to develop cavities and tooth decay with this open space that is now available. Probably the most serious result of missing teeth is bone loss. Bone loss occurs very quickly when there are no teeth present to preserve your gum line. In fact, after just one year of having missing teeth, up to 25% of bone loss can occur. This makes it hard to eat, requires extra dental care for the bacteria that has now developed, and also causes your facial features to have a sunken appearance, making you look older than you actually are.
Contact Your Local Oral Surgery Office
Call Pacific Maxillofacial Center to learn more about dental implants in Honolulu and schedule your appointment today at 808-585-8455.
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