Missing teeth can be a challenge, affecting your smile and your ability to chew and speak comfortably. Dental implants present a permanent and innovative solution for those who have lost teeth. Crafted from medical-grade titanium, the same material used in hip and joint implants, these implants are securely placed in the jawbone. Yeo Family Dental Group proudly offers the latest advancements in dental implants for individuals in Marina Del Rey, Playa Del Rey, Venice, and Culver City. With our expertise and commitment to patient comfort, we will guide you through every step of the dental implant process.
Dental Implants at a Glance
Dental implants are small, biocompatible posts surgically placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for a dental crown, bridge, or denture.
We offer titanium and ceramic dental implants to meet each patient’s needs and preferences. We also offer zygomatic dental implants for patients with significant upper jaw bone deterioration and all-on-four implants to replace a full upper or lower arch of missing teeth. Read on to learn more about these implant options, or schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Jamie or Dr. Tan of Yeo Family Dental Group to receive your personalized dental implant treatment plan.
For those seeking an alternative solution to single implants, we also specialize in two advanced techniques: zygomatic dental implants and all-on-four dental implants.
Zygomatic dental implants provide a unique solution for individuals with significant bone loss in the upper jaw, avoiding the need for bone grafting procedures.
All-on-four dental implants offer a comprehensive and efficient approach to restoring a full arch of missing teeth with just four strategically placed implants. These innovative procedures ensure that everyone can benefit from the life-changing effects of dental implants.
Titanium is the most popular material for dental implants due to its durability, relative affordability, and biocompatibility with your natural bone and gum tissue. They have excellent osseointegration capabilities, meaning they integrate well into the jaw bone after they are placed. Titanium implants are associated with a high rate of long-term success and a low incidence of complications.
In rare cases, titanium implants can corrode when they react with other metal fixtures in the mouth. However, they have a long-term success rate of 94 to 97 percent and remain the industry standard for dental implant materials. Learn more about titanium implants on our blog.
Zirconia implants have been used since 1987, providing an alternative to titanium implants. They are also referred to as ceramic implants because zirconia is a ceramic non-metal material. While titanium allergies are rare, a small percentage of people who are allergic to titanium can benefit from zirconia implants.
Because zirconia has a very low metal content, these implants also have a lower risk of corroding. The zirconia material is white, so there is less chance of the posts showing through the gums, which can occasionally happen with titanium implants. One disadvantage of zirconia implants is a higher risk for fracture. Learn more about ceramic dental implants on our blog.
The dental implant procedure involves several well-orchestrated steps, which will be reviewed in depth at your consultation. Here is a brief overview of what to expect:
If your jaw bone has deteriorated due to gum disease or multiple missing teeth, you may need a small bone graft to strengthen it prior to implant placement. At your initial exam, your dentist will take images of your jawbone to create your customized treatment plan.
Dental implants are a versatile solution for replacing missing teeth, providing results that resemble natural teeth for a full, beautiful smile. Implants may be used in the following situations:
Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated an impressive success rate of 94-99 percent over ten years for dental implants. In essence, dental implants significantly enhance your quality of life. With proper maintenance, these implants can last a lifetime, making them a worthwhile investment.
The benefits of dental implants extend beyond their longevity! They also enhance your appearance, increase self-confidence, and improve speech clarity. Say goodbye to speech impediments caused by missing teeth and regain the confidence that comes with a complete smile. Additionally, dental implants preserve the integrity of surrounding teeth, unlike bridges that require adjacent teeth to be prepared for support.
Dental implants are a great option for many patients who are generally healthy and have a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone. During your consultation, Dr. Tan or Dr. Jamie will assess your suitability for dental implants and discuss any potential risk factors.
The recovery process after dental implant placement varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Your dentist will provide specific post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and implant success. Generally, you can expect some swelling and discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with medication and a soft food diet.
Once your dental implant surgery is complete and your restoration is placed, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking, and fully functional smile for years. Just like natural teeth, dental implants require good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. With diligent care, your dental implants can last a lifetime.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last many years, often a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure their longevity.
Most patients report discomfort during the implant procedure is less than expected. Local anesthesia is used during the surgery, and any post-operative discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene helps prevent infection and ensures the longevity of the implant.
While dental implants have a high success rate, potential risks include infection, implant failure, nerve damage, and sinus problems. Choosing a skilled and experienced dentist like the providers at Yeo Family Dental Group can help minimize these risks.