Dental Implants in Los Angeles, CA

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. It is a sturdy foundation for a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. At Brentwood Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, dental implants are a popular and effective solution for restoring missing teeth and can provide numerous benefits.

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to the success and longevity of dental implants. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups are essential. It is also important to avoid habits such as smoking and excessive consumption of staining substances, as they can impact the longevity and appearance of the dental prosthesis.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

• Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth, providing a natural-looking smile.
• The underlying jawbone can deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation when a tooth is lost. Dental implants mimic the function of natural tooth roots, including the stimulation of the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining its structure and density.
• Missing teeth can affect speech patterns and pronunciation. Dental implants fill the gaps, improving speech clarity and allowing individuals to speak confidently and clearly.
• Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, ensuring a secure and stable fit. Unlike dentures or removable bridges, implants eliminate the worry of slippage or discomfort, allowing individuals to speak, eat, and smile confidently.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, although sedation may also be used for anxious patients. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone and then create a small hole where the implant will be placed. The dental implant will then be inserted into the jawbone. The implant is made of titanium because it can fuse with the surrounding bone tissue through osseointegration, which provides a stable foundation for the implant.

After the implant is placed, the gum tissue is sutured together, and a healing period begins. During this time, osseointegration takes place, which typically takes a few months. The jawbone grows around and fuses with the implant, creating a solid bond. 

After the osseointegration process has sufficiently completed, a minor surgical procedure is performed to attach an abutment to the dental implant. The abutment is a connector piece that extends above the gum line and serves as the anchor for the dental prosthesis.

After the gums have healed around the abutment, a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, is fabricated to replace the missing tooth/teeth. The prosthesis would be custom-made to match your natural teeth's color, shape, and size to ensure a natural-looking result.

Implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution, offering long-term benefits and eliminating the need for frequent replacements. Visit the Brentwood Center for Cosmetic Dentistry at 11645 Wilshire Blvd Ste. 790, Los Angeles, CA 90025, or call (310) 312-0505. to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.