Dental Implants

No matter the cause of your tooth loss, missing a tooth, or teeth, can make you look and feel old. Tooth loss also may lead to issues while eating or speaking. Further, adding an additional layer of discomfort is the damage to your self-esteem. Luckily, with some amazing advances in technology, dental implants offer a comfortable and long-lasting solution to tooth loss so that you can get your confidence back and improve your life. Dr. Dianati, who received some of her primary training at the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, has performed countless successful dental implant procedures in the Ventura County and Los Angeles County areas. Dr. Dianati is passionate about her profession as a platform to helping people and furthering their lives.

So what exactly is a dental implant?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a base for replacement teeth known as “crowns.” They are an effective solution for patients who have lost any adult teeth. Since dental implants fit, feel, and function like natural teeth, they are second to none when it comes to dental restoration.

There are three parts that come together to form a dental implant. The implant itself is a screw that serves as a root anchor for the new tooth. It is to anchor the new tooth to the jaw. The second part is called the abutment. It’s a permanent connector that is designed to support a tooth or set of teeth. The third part is the crown and the part of the tooth that is visible. Usually, crowns are made from porcelain, which ensures durability and attractiveness.

Benefits of Dental Implants

What’s the big deal when it comes to dental implants? Dental implants are a step above other restorative dental treatments because they replace the entire tooth, including the root. They feel as if they are natural teeth. They live up to that billing in terms of functionality and appearance.

Additionally, dental implants are long-lasting, especially when patients adhere to good oral hygiene practices. They offer a natural and beautiful appearance, do not lead to tooth decay or sensitivity, seamlessly integrate into the jawbone. Implants can even strengthen the jawbone, preventing facial collapse and bone loss.

How Do You Know if you are a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

A good candidate preferably has healthy gums and a jawbone that has completed the growing phase. Anyone who smokes, uses alcohol excessively, has uncontrolled gum disease, diabetes, or cancer may not be a good candidate for this procedure. Please make an appointment with Dr. Dianati to evaluate whether dental implants are a good fit for you.

Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

To ensure a successful dental implant procedure, a patient should take steps to be prepared. An instruction that Dr. Dianati gives is for patients to arrange for smoothies, soups, and other softer foods in advance so that they have something to eat when their gums are tender. If IV sedation is involved, then patients should be ready to fast from the night before the procedure and have a ride home ready too.

A Dental Implant Surgery Roadmap

Dental implant surgery involves a multi-phase process, which looks like this:

1. Local anesthesia is provided and Dr. Dianati places the implant over the jaw.
2. Next, Dr. Dianati covers the implant with gum tissue. The dental implant will need to integrate into the jawbone for usually three to six months.
3. Temporary crowns are placed to cover the implant posts during what usually is three to six months, so as to provide a temporary aesthetic benefit.
4. Next, after the integration period, Dr. Dianati attaches a post to the implant, which allows the gum tissue to grow around it. Sometimes, the implant and post are placed at the same time.
5. Your general dentist places a permanent crown for each implant post. Process done. You essentially now have a brand new tooth. Congratulations!

Recovering From Dental Implant Surgery

Following dental implant surgery, Dr. Dianati advises the following:

1. Refrain from rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery.
2. Some bleeding or redness should be expected for 24 hours. If excessive bleeding occurs, then patients are instructed to bite on a gauze pad that is placed directly on the wound for half an hour.
3. In order to reduce swelling, Dr. Dianati recommends that patients apply an ice bag or towel filled with ice on the cheek. Ice should be applied as much as possible for the first 48 hours post-surgery.
4. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid hot foods or liquids after the surgery. Soft foods should be prepared in advance and eaten on the day of the dental implant procedure.
5. Pain medications will be prescribed as needed.
6. Patients must practice good oral hygiene to ensure optimal healing. Dr. Dianati will explain how they can properly care for their teeth and gums.

Call our office today at 818-584-1841 for a consultation to review enhancing your smile and your oral health.