Enjoy a Restored, Natural-Looking Smile
Missing one or more teeth can make everyday tasks like chewing and speaking a challenge. You may find it difficult to smile with confidence or worry about oral health problems down the road. Thankfully, dental implants can help restore your healthy, beautiful smile.
At Dr. Sam Lavi Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we’ll customize your implants so you can enjoy the stunning smile you deserve. Read on to learn more about dental implants and if you may be a candidate.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts secured directly into the jawbone and topped with a dental crown. They can permanently replace teeth that have been damaged or lost due to decay, disease, or dental trauma. Dental implants are customized to match the look and feel of your natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy all of your favorite foods with ease.
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Unlike other tooth restorations, implants are secured directly to your jaw for a comfortable and secure fit.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Our natural-looking implant restorations offer several benefits, such as:
- Stimulates healthy jaw bone growth: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone may deteriorate from the lack of stimulation. Implants act as tooth roots, providing the stimulation necessary to maintain a healthy jawbone.
- Durable and long-lasting: Dental implants are securely fixed to your jawbone, so you won’t have to worry about them shifting or loosening. They’re durable enough to last a lifetime with proper care.
- Natural-looking: Because implants mimic a tooth root, the customized crown will sit perfectly in line with the surrounding teeth for a seamless appearance.
- Restores smile’s function and appearance: Implants can help you speak, chew, and smile with ease and comfort.
When Are Dental Implants Recommended?
Dr. Lavi may recommend dental implants to patients whose teeth are:
- Severely decayed
- Missing
- Irreparably damaged
However, dental implants aren’t a suitable treatment option for every patient. To learn if you’re a candidate for dental implants, schedule an appointment at either our Studio City or Los Angeles office.
Dr. Lavi will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and oral health to determine if dental implants would be effective for you. If necessary, he’ll also discuss other options with you and make appropriate treatment recommendations.
The Dental Implant Process
If you’re looking for a long-lasting way to restore your missing teeth, dental implants could be right for you. The implant process can be completed at our Studio City and downtown Los Angeles offices in as few as two appointments.
First Visit and Consultation
Your journey to a restored smile begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Lavi. He’ll examine your oral health and discuss your treatment goals to determine a solution that’s best for you. If you’re a candidate for dental implants, he can begin right away.
Dr. Lavi will administer a local anesthetic to ensure you won’t feel a thing during treatment. Once your mouth is numbed, he’ll surgically attach the implant fixture to your jaw. The titanium fixture mimics the tooth’s root and will eventually hold your customized crown in place.
Second Visit
Through a process called osseointegration, your jaw bone will form a secure bond with the titanium fixture. This creates a strong foundation for your new prosthetic tooth and takes about three to five months to complete.
Once the area has healed, you’ll return to either our Studio City or Los Angeles office so Dr. Lavi can place an abutment to connect the fixture to the restoration. Finally, he’ll attach your custom-made porcelain crown to the top of the abutment piece, completing your beautiful smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
With the right care, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime. This means practicing good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. It’s recommended that you use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching your restoration.
It’s also important to schedule bi-annual dental check-ups with Dr. Lavi at our Studio City or Los Angeles office so he can help maintain your healthy teeth and gums. Your implants won’t require extra maintenance, but your custom-made dental crown may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years.
How much do dental implants cost?
The price of dental implants varies from patient to patient and depends on a variety of factors. These include how many implants are being placed and whether a supplemental procedure is needed.
Dr. Lavi will provide you with an accurate breakdown of your treatment cost after creating a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
We also suggest looking into CareCredit, a third-party loan service dedicated to helping patients pay for their treatments. Applying online is quick and easy, and you may qualify for financial aid regardless of your insurance status.
Are dental implants right for me?
If you have damaged or missing teeth, dental implants could be a great way to restore your ability to speak clearly and chew comfortably, as well as enhance your appearance. Ideal candidates for dental implants are relatively healthy and have sufficient jaw bone density for successful implant placement. To learn more, contact our Studio City office at (818) 980-8472 or our Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212.
