What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement solution that is placed in the jaw through surgery. Each implant consists of three parts:
- A post – the base of dental implants
- An abutment – the connecting piece
- A crown or prosthesis – the permanent, new tooth
The post, also sometimes called a screw, is inserted into the bone beneath your gums to replace the root of your tooth. Posts are made of medical-grade titanium, a material that bonds naturally with your bone to create a secure hold for your replacement teeth. The abutment is a connector piece that attaches your implant post to your new replacement tooth, also known as the crown.
Your crowns are custom-made by your dentist to look just like natural teeth. If you are replacing multiple teeth, you may receive a bridge or other multi-tooth prosthesis instead of a single-tooth crown.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Patients and dental professionals alike agree that they are one of the best options available for tooth replacement.
Below are just a few of the benefits of replacing teeth with dental implants:
- Beautiful new teeth. They look just like healthy natural teeth. Patients are very happy with the appearance of their smiles after implant procedures compared to removable dentures.
- A healthy option. Bone loss, dental shifting, and other issues can arise when teeth are missing for an extended length of time. Dental implants stimulate the bone beneath your gums, preventing bone loss. Your new replacement teeth will also prevent any dental shifting around the missing tooth site and simplify your dental care.
- Lifelong tooth replacements. With proper care and regular oral hygiene, your implants can last a lifetime. The titanium implants form a permanent bond with the bone in your jaw, allowing your implants to function just like natural teeth with healthy gums.
- No-slip security. After the healing period is complete, they are just as strong as healthy teeth. Implant patients can eat the foods they enjoy without worrying about their implants slipping or coming out of place.
With a success rate of over 95%, implants are becoming more and more popular. Many dental professionals recommend implants as the first choice to consider for patients who want to replace one tooth or multiple teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are a versatile tool that can restore one tooth or many teeth. The implants can support a permanent single tooth crown, a multi-tooth bridge, or even a full permanent denture. Most of the time, surgery requires two separate procedures. Sometimes single-stage (immediate-loading) implants can be placed, reducing the number of visits necessary.
Your surgeon will review your condition and treatment options with you during a consultation appointment before starting your treatment process.
During the initial surgery, your surgeon will place the implants into the bone/empty tooth sockets beneath the gums. This surgery is usually performed under IV anesthesia, so patients can rest comfortably until the procedure is over. After the surgery is over, your designated driver will be able to take you home to rest.
The next step takes place after the implant sites have healed. This second procedure involves attaching your permanent replacement teeth to your implants. Your dentist will customize your new crowns to fit your smile. Once the crowns are in place, the implant process is complete, and you can enjoy all the benefits of your new teeth.
The healing period after your initial surgery can vary, depending on the type of implants you receive. The implants must integrate with the bone in your jaw before they can undergo full chewing forces; therefore, a soft diet may be necessary for several weeks to a few months. There may be some discomfort and swelling in the days after the procedure, but most patients report that their pain is not severe.
You will receive a prescription for pain medication to control discomfort, but some patients find that they do not need it. You may also be given antibiotics to prevent post-surgical infection. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and our surgeons will be happy to answer any questions you have.
Cost of Dental Implants in Los Angeles, CA
Many patients ask, “What is the cost of dental implants?” Dental implants are ideal for replacing missing and damaged teeth in Los Angeles, CA. They are the most beneficial tooth restoration solution because they offer more permanence and stability than any other option.
When it comes to determining the cost of dental implants, many factors help us determine an accurate estimate for treatment. Each patient’s condition is different, and with our focus on personalized treatment, so is each patient’s expense.
Regardless of the final cost of your dental implants, we accept a variety of payment options and are happy to help you file an insurance claim. While other practices or corporate dental offices may offer bargain dental implants, we urge our patients to be cautious of these claims. At Los Angeles Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we believe in the importance of quality over saving a quick dollar. We use only the highest quality materials and implants to ensure long-lasting and optimal results.
Investing in Dental Implants
Having a beautiful and fully functional set of teeth provides infinite value to patients’ lives. If you have missing or damaged teeth, it can significantly impact your ability to eat, smile, and live a normal life. Replacing your teeth with dental implants is invaluable to your overall oral and mental health. The main reasons that implants are a wise investment are because
- They can last a lifetime if cared for properly, avoiding the need for additional replacement procedures down the road.
- They prevent your other teeth from shifting out of alignment, meaning you won’t have to worry about future corrective treatment.
- They stimulate the jaw bone, prevent it from deteriorating, and help avoid serious bone loss and oral health problems.
- They look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, which means you can eat without worrying about teeth slipping or falling out, and you can smile with confidence.
Is the implant procedure right for me?
If you are healthy enough to undergo minor dental surgery, and you have enough bone in your jaw to support them, you may be a candidate for dental implant surgery. Even in cases of bone loss, the surgeon may be able to prepare your mouth using a bone grafting procedure.
We can thoroughly examine your condition and health history, discuss your intended treatment plan (including anesthesia), go over your payment options, and determine an estimate of your costs. The best way to find out if they are right for you is to come to our office in Los Angeles for a consultation appointment.
Dental Implants in Los Angeles, CA
Our office is conveniently located near Century City and Beverly Hills, just off Santa Monica Blvd. If you live in Los Angeles, CA and are looking for a permanent solution for tooth loss, contact our office. One of our staff members will be happy to discuss your options and schedule a consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons.
