Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

June 10, 2024

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Posted By: Dr. Nargiz I. Zadeh

Missing teeth can impact more than your appearance—they can affect your ability to eat and speak properly. But what if you could replace those missing or damaged teeth with something that looks and feels natural? Dental implants might be the answer you've been looking for, providing a long-lasting solution for a healthier, more beautiful smile.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, typically titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone. Once in place, they provide a sturdy foundation for attaching replacement teeth, such as dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants integrate with the bone, providing stability and preventing bone loss.

Why Do I Need Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an excellent solution for individuals with missing teeth due to injury, decay, or disease. Here are a few reasons why you might consider dental implants:

Improved Appearance: Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. They are designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a seamless and attractive appearance.
Enhanced functionality: With dental implants, you can eat, speak, and chew confidently. Unlike dentures, they restore full functionality to your mouth, which can slip or cause discomfort.
Bone Health: Dental implants help preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs with missing teeth. It maintains the structure of your face and overall oral health.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

One of the most appealing aspects of dental implants is their longevity. With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last many years, often a lifetime. The titanium post integrates with the jawbone through osseointegration, providing a strong and durable foundation. The crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant may need replacement due to normal wear and tear, but the implant is a permanent solution.

Will they look like my other teeth?

Dental implants are custom-made to match your natural teeth' color, shape, and size. During restoration, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to ensure the new teeth fit perfectly. The result is a natural-looking smile where the dental implants are indistinguishable from your other teeth. This attention to detail ensures that your smile remains harmonious and aesthetically pleasing.

Are there any limits to what I can eat with dental implants?

One of the significant advantages of dental implants is that they restore full chewing power, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without concern. Unlike dentures, dental implants are stable and strong, which can shift or cause discomfort when eating certain foods. You can enjoy a varied diet without restrictions, including crunchy and chewy foods. However, it's still essential to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid habits that can damage your teeth, such as chewing on ice or using your teeth as tools.

What is the Process for Getting Dental Implants?

Implants typically involve several steps over a few months. It begins with a thorough consultation and examination by your dentist to assess your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate for implants. This assessment may include X-rays or 3D imaging to evaluate the condition of your jawbone. Once cleared, the next step is the surgical placement of the implant. During this procedure, a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia.

After placement, a healing period of several months is necessary for the implant to integrate with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. Finally, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is crafted to match your natural teeth and attached to the integrated titanium post. Throughout the process, your dentist will provide detailed care instructions and monitor your progress to ensure the success of the implant.

Can any dentist offer dental implants?

Not all dentists are qualified to offer dental implants. Dental implants require specialized knowledge and training in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. While general dentists may have some knowledge of implants, dentists who specialize in them have completed additional education and training in implant dentistry, ensuring they have the skills and experience to handle the complexities of the process. Choosing a dentist with the appropriate qualifications and experience is essential to provide the best outcome for your dental implant treatment.

You Won't Miss Your Old Smile

Missing teeth don't have to define your smile. Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that enhances appearance and functionality. At Nargiz I. Zadeh, DMD, we specialize in creating beautiful, lasting smiles. Join our many satisfied patients in Encino, Tarzana, Reseda, and surrounding California (CA) areas. Call us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards a smile you can be proud of.

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Located along the busy stretch of Ventura Boulevard, 18740 Ventura Blvd, Suite 208 is situated within the recognizable Tarzana Medical Center, a well-known office building with clear signage and ample parking. Visitors will find it easy to spot thanks to nearby landmarks such as Hummus Bar & Grill, California Pizza Kitchen, and Chipotle, all just a short walk away. Traveling from the east, the Tarzana Inn serves as a helpful reference point, sitting less than a mile from the office. Being positioned on one of the San Fernando Valley’s most notable thoroughfares, the location is easy to navigate—simply look for it on Ventura Boulevard just past the Village Walk shops and not far from local recreational spots like the Tarzana Recreation Center and the scenic Caballero Canyon trailheads.