If you are self-conscious because you have missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, or do not want healthy teeth removed for a bridge, getting dental implants in Los Angeles may be an option for you to get back that healthy picture-perfect movie star smile.
Dental implants can be an effective way to replace missing teeth and are designed to have a look of natural teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. Dental implants are essentially metal posts that are surgically inserted in the upper or lower jaw, where they become a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth made of porcelain. Most patients find that dental implants are secure, stable, and a good replacement for natural teeth.
Dental implant procedure generally includes three steps that take place over a period of time:
- First, dental surgery, during which dentist preps the gum/jawbone and surgically inserts the implant. Following the procedure, your dentist may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the healing process.
- Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration, which makes an implant so strong because the bone grows around the implant stud and holds it in place. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant. Other patients can have implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit.
- Finally, it’s time for placement of the replacement tooth/teeth. For a single tooth implant, your dentist will create a custom dental crown. The crown can be custom manufactured in appropriate size, shape, color and fit, and designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures can be manufactured to fit your mouth and your implants. Permanent replacement crowns and bridges usually take some time to manufacture. In the meantime, your dentist may create a temporary crown, bridge, or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.
If you are interested in dental implants in Los Angeles, it’s a good idea to discuss your needs with your primary dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You general health may need to be evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. Patients with these issues may not be good candidates for implants. Using tobacco can also slow healing.
After the initial procedure, dental implants do require regular maintenance. It is important to practice good daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing to control bacterial biofilm. It is also important to see your dentist and dental hygienist regularly. Special instruments are necessary to clean dental implants that will not damage their metal surface beneath the gum tissues. Your dentist will need to monitor your implants to make sure the integrity of the osseointegration is stable, and that the implant crowns, bridgework, or dentures function adequately.
You do not have to be an established River Dentistry patient to get evaluated for suitability of dental implants. Our convenient Downtown Los Angeles dental office is open till 7:00 PM Monday through Friday and till 4:00 PM on Saturdays. In addition to everyday low prices, we frequently offer first time patient best in Los Angeles dental specials and discounts. Call us at 213-486-0006 or use our online appointment system to make your appointment today!
