Dental implants are a great option for patients who have lost a tooth or multiple teeth due to gum disease, injury or other causes. The implants are artificial roots made of titanium that are placed into your jaw and hold a replacement tooth (or bridge work). At our Encino dental office, we use biocompatible dentistry materials.
There are actually two different types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most common type and are used when the root of the implant can go directly into the jaw. Subperiosteal implants are used when patients cannot have implants in the jaw. In these cases, the implant is placed on top of the jaw and is secured with metal posts in the gums. We can help you determine which type of implant is best for you.
The exact dental implant procedure that you can expect depends on your dental cosmetic needs, but essentially, the implant is surgically placed into your jawbone during a minimally invasive procedure. Sometimes, the replacement tooth is added at the same time, but in many cases, the implant needs to heal first before the replacement tooth is added. Your jaw bone will grow around the implant to hold it in place. The replacement tooth, also called a crown, is custom made for your mouth and to match the color of your other teeth.
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Although your implants are not susceptible to cavities, you should still expect some normal wear and tear. To take care of them, be sure to brush and floss regularly and to visit our dentist in Encino for cleanings and checkups to ensure healthy gums and bones to support the implants.
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Types of dental implants
What can I expect from dental implants?
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How do I care for implants?
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Practically, all the patients who have lost one or more teeth are candidates for dental implants. There are very few situations in which dental implants cannot be used, such as with medically compromised patients and patients with a severe bone loss.Read Debby T.‘s review of Signature Smiles of LA on Yelp