What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made out of titanium. It is surgically positioned into your jaw bone beneath your gums by an oral surgeon and are specifically designed to replace missing teeth. Once in place, they allow your dentist to mount replacement teeth directly on top of them, having the appearance of real teeth.
How do Dental Implants work?
Our jawbone provides stable support for artificial teeth by accepting the titanium post, a process known as osseo integration. This means our jawbone literally grows around the post to securely hold it in, acting as if it were a real root. This action provides stability for the implant, not allowing it to move or shift.
How is Implant Surgery performed?
All dental implant surgeries are performed in stages and may require several procedures depending on the individual patient and the health or condition of their jawbone. The type of dental implant also plays a role. Typically, the patient’s jaw is prepared for surgery, possibly by placing a bone graft in the area. Once healed, the oral surgeon places the titanium post into the jawbone. It can take several months for the jawbone to fully osseointegrate around the new “root”. Once the site is completely healed, your general dentist places the abutment, or fake tooth, on top of the post. This entire procedure from start to finish can take three to nine months, often longer, and is mostly “wait time” for the jawbone to heal.
Why do I need Dental Implants?
There can be multiple reasons why your dentist in Los Angeles has recommended dental implants. If you were born without a permanent tooth or teeth, suffered trauma resulting in losing teeth, or have lost teeth due to periodontal disease. If you have lost teeth due to periodontal disease, you may not have enough healthy bone to place an implant. An oral surgeon can determine the severity of bone loss and may be able to place a bone graft before an implant.
Am I a good candidate for Dental Implants?
Generally speaking, if you are in good health, an implant will be the right procedure for you. Some conditions and diseases however, can affect whether dental implants are right for you. For example, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease may affect whether dental implants will fuse to your bone. It’s important to always be honest with your dentist regarding your health history, past and present.
For further information or to schedule an appointment please contact Crystal Dental Centers at 213.748.8448 or visit www.CrystalDentalCenters.com to find a location near you.
