Replacing Missing Teeth in Irvine, CA
Restore Your Smile with Permanent, Natural-Looking Tooth Replacement Solutions
Missing teeth can negatively impact your ability to chew, speak, and feel confident in your smile. Whether you have lost a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, replacing them is essential to maintaining jawbone health, facial structure, and overall oral function.
At Honest Oral Surgeon in Irvine, CA, our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Eric Kim, and Dr. Blair Ota, specialize in state-of-the-art tooth replacement solutions, including dental implants, All-on-4®, and implant-supported dentures.
Whether you’re missing one tooth or a full set, we offer customized, long-lasting solutions to help restore function, aesthetics, and confidence.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Failing to replace missing teeth can lead to serious oral health issues, including:
- Jawbone Deterioration – Without a tooth root, the jawbone begins to shrink, leading to bone loss and facial sagging.
- Shifting of Remaining Teeth – Surrounding teeth may drift into the gap, causing misalignment and bite issues.
- Difficulty Eating & Speaking – Missing teeth can make chewing certain foods difficult, limiting your diet and nutrition.
- Increased Risk of Tooth Decay & Gum Disease – Gaps in your smile create spaces where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of infections.
At Honest Oral Surgeon, we offer permanent and natural-looking tooth replacement options to restore your oral health and quality of life.
Tooth Replacement Options: Find the Right Solution for You
1. Dental Implants (Best Single-Tooth Replacement Option)
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they mimic the function of a natural tooth root, preventing bone loss and providing long-term durability.
- Single dental implants replace one missing tooth with a natural-looking crown.
- Made from biocompatible titanium, implants fuse with the jawbone for lifelong stability.
- Protects surrounding teeth—unlike a dental bridge, no adjacent teeth need to be altered.
Learn more about our advanced dental implant procedures.
2. All-on-4® Dental Implants (Best for Full-Arch Tooth Replacement)
For patients missing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, All-on-4® implants provide a fixed, full-arch solution with just four strategically placed implants.
- Permanent, non-removable solution that feels and functions like natural teeth.
- Immediate results – A temporary bridge is placed the same day as surgery.
- Eliminates the need for bone grafting in most cases.
Discover if All-on-4® is right for you.
3. Implant-Supported Dentures (More Secure Than Traditional Dentures)
Implant-supported dentures combine the affordability of dentures with the stability of implants.
- More secure than traditional dentures – no slipping or adhesives needed.
- Helps preserve jawbone health by stimulating bone like natural teeth.
- Can be fixed or removable, depending on patient preference.
Learn more about implant-supported dentures.
4. Traditional Dentures
For patients seeking a lower-cost option, traditional dentures provide a removable solution to replace missing teeth.
- Custom-made for a natural look.
- Requires adhesive for stability and may need periodic adjustments.
- Does not prevent jawbone loss, unlike implants.
While dentures are a cost-effective choice, implant-supported options offer greater long-term benefits.
The Tooth Replacement Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Consultation & 3D Imaging
- We conduct a comprehensive exam and use 3D imaging to assess bone density and implant placement needs.
- A personalized treatment plan is developed.
Step 2: Tooth Replacement Procedure
- If necessary, any remaining damaged teeth are extracted.
- Dental implants or implant-supported restorations are placed in the jawbone.
Step 3: Healing & Final Prosthesis Placement
- Osseointegration (bone fusion) occurs over 3–6 months for implant procedures.
- A permanent custom prosthesis is attached once healing is complete.
Why Choose Honest Oral Surgeon for Tooth Replacement?
- Board-Certified Oral Surgeons – Dr. Eric Kim & Dr. Blair Ota specialize in permanent tooth replacement solutions.
- State-of-the-art technology – We use 3D imaging for precise implant placement.
- Comprehensive Care – We offer bone grafting if additional support is needed before implant placement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Missing Teeth
What is the best option for replacing missing teeth?
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
Over time, missing teeth can cause:
- Bone loss and facial sagging.
- Shifting of adjacent teeth, leading to bite misalignment.
- Difficulty eating and speaking properly.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.