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Are you missing a single tooth, or multiple teeth? Teeth are lost for an array of reasons, including infection, gum disease, accident or injury. As a result, remaining teeth can shift and become crooked. The consequences of poor dental health can make it difficult to eat our favorite foods and even speak causing embarrassment and a lack of self-esteem. Dental implants offer comfort and stability, and can restore your smile back to its natural function and appearance. Even better, nobody will know you have dental implants. They'll only notice your beautiful, natural smile. What are Dental Implants and how are they Completed? Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the tooth where the root normally is contained. They are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, dental implants can also be used to attach dentures. Dental implants today are virtually indistinguishable from your other teeth. The appearance is aided in part by the structural and functional connection between the dental implant and the living bone. Implants are typically placed in one sitting, but require a period of osseointegration, which direct anchorage of the implant root and the bone of the jaw occurs. First, surgery is performed to place the anchor for the implant. This surgery can take up to several hours, and up to six months may be required for the bone to grow around the anchor to firmly hold it in place. Some implants may require a second surgery in which a post is attached to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. Other implants have the anchor and post already attached. After your gums have had several weeks to heal, the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post of the anchor. Several fitting may be required, causing this step of the implant placement process to take one to two months to complete. Advantages of Dental Implants If you, like millions of adults, have lost one or more teeth, then you understand the unpleasant consequences that accompany tooth loss. Missing teeth result in an older appearance, discomfort, inconvenience and an overall less active lifestyle. Since implants are securely attached, you gain confidence to eat what you like, speak clearly and freedom from embarrassment. Other benefits of implants include: * Improved Appearance: Dental implants look and feel just like your own teeth.
* Improved Comfort: Implants are securely anchored, so there is no slipping as there is with dentures. This eliminates some of the key inconveniences of dentures, including poor fit, gum irritation, and pain.
* Improved Health: Dental implants can help prevent deterioration of the jawbone caused by loss of teeth, so your face retains its natural shape.
* Durability: Implants are strong and can last a lifetime with proper care.
* Convenience: Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent, eliminating the inconvenience of removing your dentures. With implants, you can brush and care for your teeth just as you would your natural teeth. Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. If you've lost one or more of your natural teeth, it's possible to continue to live confidently with dental implants from your dentist in Santa Monica. They look and feel exactly like your natural teeth, and unlike conventional restoration solutions, implants can last a lifetime.
Dr. Roya Levi, Santa Monica dentist, received her DDS from UCLA, School of Dentistry in 1991 and continues her passion for dentistry through continuing education. Joining Dr. Roya Levi is Dr. Soheil Levi, Santa Monica dental implants dentist. He received his Post Graduate Doctorate degree in the field of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry from USC School of Dentistry.
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