Dental Implants: Modern Tooth Replacement
Missing teeth affect more than just your smile—they impact your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and feel confident. Dr. Irene Olaes offers comprehensive dental implant solutions that restore both function and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a three-part system that permanently replaces a missing tooth:
- • Surgically placed into jawbone
- • Acts as artificial tooth root
- • Made from biocompatible titanium
- • Fuses with bone (osseointegration)
- • Attaches to implant post
- • Connects implant to crown
- • Standard or custom-fabricated
- • Titanium or tooth-colored ceramic
- • Custom-designed by Dr. Olaes
- • Matches natural teeth color/shape
- • Durable porcelain or ceramic
- • Restores full chewing function
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Implants represent the most advanced tooth replacement technology available today
- No grinding down of healthy adjacent teeth
- Independent structure—easier to clean
- Preserves natural tooth structure
- Longer lifespan: 25+ years vs. 7-10 years for bridges
- Permanent—no removing for cleaning
- No slipping or clicking sounds
- Prevents bone loss & maintains facial structure
- Full chewing power (dentures: only 25% of natural bite)
Health Benefits
Preserve Jaw Bone
Prevents up to 25% bone loss in the first year after tooth loss
Protect Teeth
Stand independently, protecting remaining natural teeth
Facial Structure
Maintains natural facial contours and prevents collapse
Restore Confidence
Eat, speak, and smile without worry
The Dental Implant Process
A step-by-step guide to your implant journey with Dr. Olaes
Week 1
What Happens:
- • Comprehensive oral examination with Dr. Olaes
- • Digital X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging
- • Discussion of your goals and concerns
- • Review of medical history
- • Treatment planning
What We Evaluate:
- • Bone quality and quantity
- • Sinus/nerve location
- • Gum tissue health
- • Adjacent teeth condition
- • Bite relationship
Performed by Oral Surgeon
Procedure Details:
- • Duration: 30-60 minutes per implant
- • Local anesthesia with sedation options
- • Small incision made in gum tissue
- • Titanium implant gently inserted
- • Incision sutured
What to Expect:
- • Minimal discomfort (OTC pain medication)
- • Antibiotics prescribed
- • Soft food diet for first week
- • Return to normal activities in 1-2 days
3-6 Months
Your jawbone grows around the implant post, creating a permanent bond through a biological process called osseointegration.
Healing Timeline:
- • Lower jaw: Typically 3-4 months (denser bone)
- • Upper jaw: Typically 4-6 months (softer bone)
- • With bone grafting: Add 3-6 months
During This Time:
- • Temporary tooth options available
- • Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Olaes
- • Monitoring healing progress
After Osseointegration Confirmed
- • Brief appointment (15-30 minutes)
- • Local anesthesia
- • Abutment attached to implant
- • Gum tissue shaped around abutment
- • 1-2 weeks healing for gum tissue to mature
Performed by Dr. Olaes at Carmel Mountain Dentist
Appointment 1: Impressions
- • Precise impressions taken
- • Bite registration
- • Shade selection to match natural teeth
Appointment 2: Crown Delivery
- • Crown tried in for fit and appearance
- • Adjustments made if needed
- • Crown permanently placed
- • Bite checked and refined
Total Timeline: 4-9 months from start to finish
Success Rates & Longevity
Single Tooth Implants
Multiple Implant Bridges
Full Arch Restorations
Lifespan Expectations
Implant Post
25+ years
can last decades with proper care
Abutment
15-20+ years
Crown
10-15 years
may need replacement
*Success rates based on published clinical research. Individual results may vary based on oral health, bone density, lifestyle factors, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Investment & Financing
We believe everyone deserves a healthy, confident smile. Let us help you find a solution that fits your budget.
Every case is unique. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate tailored to your specific needs.
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will help you maximize your benefits. Our team handles all insurance paperwork for you.
- • CareCredit financing available
- • In-house payment plans
- • HSA/FSA eligible
Need Bone Grafting?
Successful dental implant placement requires adequate bone volume. If your jawbone has deteriorated, bone grafting can rebuild the foundation needed for stable, long-lasting implants.
Learn About Bone GraftingBuilding Strong Foundations
Socket preservation, ridge augmentation, sinus lifts & more
Why Choose Dr. Olaes for Implant Restoration?
Artistic Expertise
Specializes in cosmetic dentistry, ensuring your implant crown blends seamlessly with your natural smile
Collaborative Care
Works with San Diego's premier oral surgeons, coordinating every phase of your treatment
Personal Touch
Dr. Olaes personally calls patients to check on recovery—a level of care that sets our practice apart
Since 2000
Decades of experience in restorative dentistry means predictable, beautiful results
Continuing Education
Stays current with the latest implant restoration techniques and materials
5-Star Rated
Consistently rated 5 stars by patients for quality care and results
Schedule Your Implant Consultation
Take the first step toward your new smile. Dr. Olaes will evaluate your unique situation and create a personalized treatment plan.
Serving: Carmel Mountain Ranch • Rancho Bernardo • Poway • 4S Ranch • Scripps Ranch