Dental Implants in Beverly Grove - Los Angeles, CA Cosmetic Dentist
Dental implants offer a modern, transformative solution for individuals missing one or more teeth. Surgically implanted into the jaw, the implant post (usually made of titanium) acts as a root for the new tooth, providing a strong and stable foundation. When a patient is missing one or more teeth, dental implants are the most permanent (and often the most comfortable) solution.
At Advanced Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Shaun Flynn provides the latest in dental implants and restorative dentistry technology. Dr. Flynn works closely with patients to design a personalized implant treatment plan that will restore both beauty and function to their smile. Visit our smile gallery to view some before-and-after photos of the results enjoyed by dental implant patients.
Steps for Dental Implants
The first step in the dental implants process for our Los Angeles dental patients is a consultation with Dr. Flynn, during which all possible tooth replacement options will be discussed. Once it is determined that the patient is a good candidate for dental implants, Dr. Flynn will surgically implant the titanium screws that serve as anchors into the patient's jaw. The next step in the dental implants process will occur three to six months later, after the titanium tooth roots have completely fused to the patient's jaw bone. Once this has occurred, the patient can return to our Los Angeles cosmetic dentistry office where Dr. Flynn will fit the custom-crafted replacement teeth onto the patient's artificial tooth roots.
Single or Multiple Implants
Implants are versatile. If you are only missing one tooth, one implant plus one replacement tooth will do the trick. If you are missing several teeth in a row, a few strategically placed implants can support a permanent bridge (a set of replacement teeth). Similarly, if you have lost all of your teeth, a full bridge or full denture can be permanently fixed in your mouth with a strategic number of implants.
The Ideal Implant Candidate
While a thorough evaluation by our cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles, CA is essential to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for dental implants, the ideal patient will have:
- Good General Health: Candidates should be in overall good health to undergo the surgical procedure required for dental implants. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, might complicate the healing process and require special consideration.
- Sufficient Jawbone Density: Adequate jawbone density is crucial for the success of dental implants, as the implant posts need a solid foundation for osseointegration. Patients with significant bone loss may need bone grafting procedures before implants can be placed.
- Healthy Gums: Healthy gums are essential because periodontal disease can affect the stability and success of the implant. Candidates should have good oral hygiene and be free of active gum disease.
- Non-Smokers: Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking during the implant process are better candidates for successful implant integration.
- Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Candidates should be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the long-term success of their implants. Proper care and maintenance are vital to prevent infections and other complications.
Dental Implants Preferred Over Dentures
Many of Dr. Flynn's Los Angeles area dental implant patients prefer permanent dental implants over traditional removable dentures for several reasons. Dental implants are nearly indistinguishable from a patient's natural teeth, unlike dentures which look artificial. While traditional dentures need to be removed nightly for cleaning, dental implants are a permanent tooth loss solution that require no additional maintenance outside of a good oral hygiene routine. Dental implants also allow patients to feel more comfortable while speaking and eating because dental implants are permanently affixed to the patient's jaw and won't shift or slip as with traditional dentures.
Get Started Today
If you are interested in learning more about your tooth replacement options, especially dental implants, contact our Los Angeles, CA cosmetic dentist office at (323) 406-1228 to schedule your restorative dentistry consultation with Dr. Shaun Flynn today.