About Dental Implants
If patients have missing teeth due to injury, illness, or decay, then dental implants are an effective solution to restore not only the cosmetic appearance, but also to keep the structural integrity of the teeth secure. Beachwood Dental offers Zimmer and Nobel Biocare dental implants to our Los Alamitos, CA patients. During placement, our dentists first implant a metal foundation into the gums and jawbone to serve as an anchor. This can be a more favorable alternative to crowns or bridges because it does not require surrounding teeth to be manipulated for support, allowing the structure of the surrounding teeth to remain in tact. Custom molds for the teeth are made and crafted to match the original shape and coloring of the patient's teeth in order to present a uniformed, natural smile. For patients desiring a longer-lasting solution to missing teeth, dental implants can offer restoration to their smile.
Single-Tooth Implants
If patients are needing only a single tooth implanted, then our Beachwood dentists are able to insert a stand-alone titanium post into the jawbone along with a crown or false tooth on top of the metal support. The process for a single implant will be less extensive than a multiple implant procedure, and patients will experience less downtime. Our dentists are still able to customize the tooth in order for it to blend in seamlessly with the rest of the teeth.
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What to Expect
Before a dental implant is placed, a thorough examination will be conducted to assess the health and strength of the gums and jawbone. If the patient is a good candidate for dental implants, digital X-Rays and physical impressions will help our dentist determine the best placement for the dental implants during the procedure. Patients will be given local anesthesia and sedation if needed while our dentist places the titanium post into the jawbone. Over 3 - 6 months, the bone and implant will fuse while healing, and, once the implant is secure, the false tooth/teeth will be attached to the implant using a connector. Our dentist will adjust the implant and replacement teeth for a comfortable and accurate fit.
Treatment Aftercare
Most patients have little to no pain after their dental implants are finished, but some may have temporary soreness and discomfort that can be relieved with an over-the-counter pain medication, like Aspirin or Tylenol. To prolong the life of dental implants, patients should have a good home oral care routine, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. Regular dental appointments for professional cleanings and dental exams are also important to implant care. Dental implants can last a long time with proper care, but they may eventually need to be repaired or replaced.
Natural Replacements
Whether you're missing one tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants are a long-lasting solution that look and feel natural. With dental implants, you don't have to worry about false teeth shifting, what you eat, or messy adhesives; you can simply smile and enjoy your beautiful, new teeth. If you are missing teeth or you have a crown, bridge, or removable dentures, talk to one of our dentists about the benefits of dental implants.