What Are Your Options? — Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Missing one tooth or a whole arch? From a single implant to All-on-4, Elite Dentistry rebuilds smiles from the root up — planned, placed, and restored in-house by Dr. Mehran Rastegar-Lari, DDS.
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Dentures were the standard answer to missing teeth for generations, and they still help many people smile again. But they come with familiar frustrations: a fit that loosens at the worst moment, sore spots where they rub, and a slow change in the shape of your face. The reason is simple — a denture sits on top of the gums and never replaces the tooth root, so the jawbone underneath loses the stimulation it needs and gradually shrinks away.
Dental implants take a different approach. Each one is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone and becomes a strong, permanent anchor for a new tooth. Because they're rooted the way natural teeth are, implants don't shift or slip, they preserve the bone and your facial structure, and they let you eat and speak with total confidence.
There is no single right answer for everyone. The best option depends on your goals, your oral health, your bone structure, and your budget — so we plan each smile around the person in the chair.
| Factor | Dental Implants | Traditional Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Chewing Power | Close to natural biting strength | Noticeably reduced |
| Stability | Anchored firmly in the jaw | Can slip while eating or speaking |
| Comfort | Feels like your own teeth | Can rub and create sore spots |
| Bone Health | Stimulates and helps maintain bone | Does nothing to slow bone loss |
| Longevity | Can last for decades with good care | Usually replaced after several years |
| Facial Shape | Helps support natural facial structure | Can allow a sunken look over time |
| Daily Care | Brush and floss like natural teeth | Removed daily for separate cleaning |
Every mouth is different, and so is the right way to rebuild it. Dr. Mehran Rastegar-Lari, DDS looks at your bone health, your bite, your daily habits, and what you want from your smile before recommending any treatment. No two implant plans at Elite Dentistry look exactly alike, because each one is shaped around your specific needs rather than a template.
Some patients are ready for implants right away; others benefit from a little preparation first — like bone grafting — to set up long-term success. We'll walk you through each path, weigh the advantages and trade-offs, and answer every question you have. The clearest way to find your fit is a consultation, where we can look at the options together.
Ready to explore replacing your missing teeth? Fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you within one business hour to set up your visit.
