Dental Implants 101: Everything You Need to Know

Dental implants are a transformative advancement in modern dentistry, offering life-changing benefits. The decision to undergo dental implant treatment can be a mix of anticipation and apprehension. Understanding the procedure and benefits is crucial to make an informed choice.

Dental implants act as natural-looking replacements, anchored securely in the jawbone to support cosmetic restorations. Our comprehensive guide covers everything from the fundamentals to a procedure breakdown, empowering you to approach oral healthcare confidently and knowledgeably. Achieve the best smile possible with dental implants at Westlake Smile Design.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a strong and long-lasting replacement for dental patients in Westlake Village. In simple terms, they are metal posts with a false tooth (or teeth) on top, securely embedded into the jawbone. This creates a stable foundation for individual crowns, bridges, or dentures.

For those missing one, two, or several teeth, dental implants offer more than just a cosmetic improvement. Implant-supported restorations not only look and feel like natural teeth but also bring unparalleled stability and usability. Gone are the days of enduring embarrassment and inconvenience associated with tooth loss.

The Structure of an Implant

A traditional dental implant consists of three parts:

1. Implant: This is a screw that serves as a root for your new teeth. It is placed into the jawbone.
2. Abutment: This is a piece that connects the implant to the crown.
3. Crown: The prosthetic tooth that is visible in your mouth. It's either screwed or cemented onto the abutment.

Who Needs Dental Implants?

Dental implants are recommended for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to:

• Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
• Severe Tooth Decay: Extraction may be necessary when tooth decay reaches an advanced stage and compromises the tooth structure.
• Trauma to the Mouth: Accidents or trauma to the mouth, such as sports injuries or car accidents, can result in the loss of one or more teeth.
• Congenital Defects: Some individuals may have congenital conditions that result in missing teeth.

At our cosmetic dentistry office in Westlake Village, Dr. David Hakimi, Dr. Armon Eben, and our skilled team are dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient. We prioritize each individual's specific needs and desires and are committed to delivering the highest-quality dental care with a compassionate touch. Our goal is to make every visit to our office a pleasant and comfortable experience. We take the time to listen to our patients and offer custom advice to help them choose the most suitable treatment for their oral health needs.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Improved appearance: This process allows for great-looking teeth to fill that beautiful smile of yours. We take pride in giving every dental patient in Westlake Village confidence in their smile with excellent-looking tooth replacement implants!
• Improved speech: With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth, causing you to mumble or slur your words.
• Easier eating: Dental implants function like your teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods confidently and without pain.
• A Lifetime Investment: An investment in dental implants is an investment in your overall health, your appearance, and your peace of mind. It is a permanent replacement option that helps preserve your facial structure and your remaining teeth.
• Improved oral health: Don't require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact.
• Durability & Easier Care: Implants mimic natural teeth, enabling straightforward maintenance similar to what you're used to. Our Westlake Smile Design team will guide you in maintaining healthy implants, a simpler process compared to other teeth replacement methods.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Initial Evaluation

The dental implant process usually begins with an evaluation of your oral and overall health. This may involve taking X-rays and making impressions of your teeth and jaw. Our dentists, Dr. David Hakimi and Dr. Armon Eben will explain the best option for you and answer any questions.

Implant Placement

The first surgery involves placing the implant into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. This surgery can be done in our Westlake Village dental office. Once inserted, the implant may need three to six months to heal.

Attaching the Post

After the osseointegration process, which means the bone has grown around the implant and has fully bonded with the bone, a post (abutment) is placed to connect the implant to the new tooth (crown).

Placing the Crown

In some cases, a second surgery may be needed to place the abutment. After the abutment, the previous step is in place. The healing period takes about two weeks before the artificial tooth (crown) can be attached.

Aftercare and Recovery

It's important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit our Westlake Village dental office. Over time, the crown may need to be replaced or repaired, but the implant is permanent.

Your Path to a Better Smile

Choosing dental implants is a pivotal decision with the potential to significantly enhance your quality of life, boost self-confidence, and improve overall health. Having gained insight into the procedure, its advantages, and possible considerations, you are now well-prepared to navigate this transformative path toward optimal dental health. Recognize that knowledge is your ally; the more you comprehend, the more assuredly you can make choices for a healthier, happier smile.

Ready to embark on your journey to a better smile? Contact our Westlake Village dental office today at (805) 497-9585 to schedule a consultation. Our team of seasoned professionals is poised to address any inquiries and guide you through the process. Your pathway to a brighter, healthier smile begins right here, and we're here to assist you every step of the way.

Schedule an appointment!

April 08, 2024 | Back to Blog