Dental Implants at Gresel Dental Hayward
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
At Gresel Dental Hayward, we understand that missing teeth can affect more than just how you look — they can impact how you eat, speak, and even your jaw structure over time. That’s why we offer dental implants as a durable, long-term solution to replace missing teeth. While removable options like dentures have their place, implants offer significant advantages in stability, comfort, and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium (or titanium-alloy) post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), creating a foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture to be securely attached.
Once in place, implants can:
- Support a single crown to replace one missing tooth
- Anchor a bridge for several adjacent missing teeth
- Stabilize or retain full dentures
- Help maintain jawbone volume and facial structure
Why Choose Implants vs. Other Options?
| Feature | Dental Implants | Traditional Dentures | Fixed Bridges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanence | Designed for decades (with good care) | Removable; may require adjustments or replacements | Fixed but rests on adjacent teeth |
| Bone Health | Encourages bone preservation | May lead to bone loss over time | Doesn’t address underlying bone loss |
| Stability & Comfort | Very stable — no slipping or shifting | Can move and may cause sore spots | Less invasive than implants in some cases, but relies on neighboring teeth |
| Aesthetics & Function | Natural appearance; near-normal biting force | May feel bulky, less efficient chewing | Good aesthetic, but may stress neighboring teeth |
At our Hayward practice, Dr. Pedro Avendaño and our skilled team guide you through each step — from planning to placement to restoration — with cutting-edge technology and compassionate care.
The Implant Process: What to Expect
-
Consultation & Planning
We begin with a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and sometimes 3D imaging to evaluate bone health and anatomy. We’ll discuss your goals, budget, and options. -
Bone Grafting (if needed)
If bone volume is insufficient, we may perform a graft to strengthen the site. This can require a healing period before the implant placement. -
Implant Placement Surgery
Under local anesthesia (and sedation if desired), the implant is placed into the jawbone. You’ll be cared for with comfort in mind. -
Healing / Osseointegration
Over a few months, the implant fuses with bone. We’ll monitor healing and your comfort during this phase. -
Abutment & Restoration
Once stable, an abutment is attached to the implant, and a custom crown, bridge, or implant-retained denture is secured on top. -
Long-Term Care & Maintenance
With good hygiene, periodic checkups, and professional cleanings, implants can last many years. We’ll coach you on best practices.
Benefits of Getting Implants at Gresel Dental Hayward
- Personalized treatment planning with the latest imaging
- Single-site convenience — planning, placement, and restoration all in one place
- Gentle techniques and patient-centered care
- Commitment to long-term success and follow-up
- Serving Hayward, Redwood City, San Leandro, and surrounding communities
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Am I a candidate for dental implants?
A: Many patients are candidates, but it depends on your oral and overall health. Key factors include adequate bone volume, healthy gums, good general health (no uncontrolled chronic diseases), and commitment to oral hygiene. If bone is insufficient, we may do a graft to make implant placement possible.
Q: Does getting implants hurt?
A: Most patients report minimal discomfort. We use anesthetics and offer sedation if needed. Any soreness after surgery is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. We prioritize your comfort throughout.
Q: How long does the entire process take?
A: Typical cases can take 3–6 months from planning to final restoration. Cases needing grafts or additional procedures may take longer. We’ll give you a personalized timeline during your consultation.
Q: Can I get a temporary tooth during healing?
A: Yes. In many cases, we can provide a temporary (flipper) or provisional replacement so you’re never without a tooth in visible areas.
Q: How do I care for my implant?
A: Care for an implant just like a natural tooth — brush twice daily, floss, and come in for regular dental checkups and cleanings. Avoid tobacco, as it can raise risks of complications.
Q: Are implants covered by insurance?
A: Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for implants or associated procedures. We’ll help you navigate your benefits and discuss financing options to make treatment accessible.
Q: What is the success rate of dental implants?
A: Dental implants boast very high success rates—over 95% in many studies—when placed by experienced professionals and maintained well. In healthy patients, they can last for decades.
Q: What happens if an implant fails?
A: While rare, failure can occur (e.g. due to poor healing, infection, or overloading). In such cases, we assess the cause, manage the issue, and may reattempt placement after healing or choose an alternate solution.