Dental Implants

Dental Implants in Simi Valley

For the fullest restoration of your smile, consider the value of dental implants from your Simi Valley dentist.

Tooth loss can be devastating, especially if you need to replace several - or all - of your teeth. Until recently, the common forms of tooth replacement have achieved temporary function. In many cases, aesthetic value has also been limited. This is not the case with dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are not replacement teeth. These tiny structures are intended as a foundation to a lifelike artificial tooth such as a crown. Implants look like tiny metal posts. Their titanium construction lends strength and biocompatibility through which the bone that surrounds the implant readily attaches. This is referred to as osseointegration. Through this process, each implant becomes firmly encased in the jawbone, just as natural roots had been.

This method of tooth replacement is suitable for a large number of patients. Because the intent is to recreate the natural sub-structure of the jaw with artificial roots, dental implant treatment is appropriate for single-tooth replacement, multiple-tooth replacement, and even for full mouth restoration.

What to Expect from Dental Implants?

Because a minor oral surgery is needed to insert the small titanium cylinders into the jaw, there may be a perception that dental implant treatment is complex or painful. Neither is an accurate depiction of the process.

A thorough consultation and exam is conducted to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
X-rays may be taken to facilitate the planning of implant placement.
To begin surgery, local anesthetic is used to numb the surgical site. You may also receive calming nitrous oxide to facilitate the most pleasant experience.
The appropriate number of implants is strategically inserted into the proper location in the jaw.
An abutment, or connective piece, is attached to the uppermost part of each implant. Only the abutment is visible above the gum line.
As needed, gum tissue is stitched around each abutment.
Temporary restorations may be immediately affixed to implant abutments.
Healing occurs over several months, as bone grows around implant posts. This is not an uncomfortable recovery!
Stabilized implants can hold a crown, bridge, or full denture.

The Advantages of
Dental Implants

There are several advantages to dental implant treatment, including highly functional teeth and a natural-looking and feeling smile. To learn more about your tooth replacement options, contact Dental Center of Simi Valley at (805) 579-0600. It could be the best thing you do for your smile!

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, proper examination, and evaluation of your oral and overall health will be carried out.

Generally, dental implants may be right for you if:

You do not have specific health issues that could complicate the implants such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, bone cancer, thyroid problems, or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
You are missing a single, multiple, or all of your teeth.
You do not want to wear dentures.
You have adequate jaw bone tissue to support the Implant.
You do not smoke.

What to expect before and after dental implants?

Initial consultation and comprehensive dental exam: your dentist will examine your oral cavity and may also take dental X-rays and 3Dimages.
Following proper examination of your oral health and medical history, your dentist will discuss available options and develop an effective treatment plan best suited for you.
Before your surgery, your dentist will give you a set of instructions, which may include prescriptions and recommendations on the types of food you need post-operation.
Dental implant placement: on the day of your surgery, you will be given local anesthesia to numb the site to prevent pain and little or no discomfort during the operation.
Dental implant procedure will take days and sometimes months to complete. This is to allow for adequate healing after every stage of the operation.

What to expect after dental implants?

Mild discomfort: after your surgery, you may experience mild discomfort with symptoms, including mild swelling of your gums and face, slight bleeding, and pain at the implant site. This can be managed with prescribed pain medications.

Regular checkups with your dentist in Simi Valley will be scheduled to examine the health of your tissues and the proper functioning of implants.