Overview of Implant Placement
Encino Dental Practice is committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality dental care in Encino, CA. Dr. Mamaliger, our team, and all the staff are dedicated to this goal. Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth because of their durability, functionality, and natural appearance. This page provides a detailed overview of the process for placing dental implants, what our patients can expect, and how we ensure the best possible outcome.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are biocompatible titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They are a permanent alternative to traditional bridges or dentures and mimic the appearance, feel, and function of real teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants:
Longevity: Dental implants can last for a lifetime with proper care.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Implants can be custom-designed to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color, ensuring a seamless appearance.
- Functionality: Implants allow you to chew your favorite food without restrictions.
- Bone Health: The implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss, common after tooth loss.
Encino Dental Practice prioritizes patient education. Before proceeding, we ensure that you fully understand the entire implant process and all its aspects.
The Implant Placement Process
Encino Dental Practice has several steps to follow to receive dental implants. Dr. Mamaliger uses a detailed process to provide each patient with personalized care tailored to their needs.
-
Initial Assessment and Consultation
The first step in the implant process is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Mamaliger. During this appointment, we will review your dental history and discuss your current oral health and treatment goals. We will also perform a comprehensive examination, including X-rays or a CT scan, to determine the best placement of the implants.
-
Treatment Plan
Dr. Mamaliger develops a personalized treatment plan based on the initial evaluation. This plan will outline the number of implants needed, their location, and any necessary preparatory procedures, such as sinus lifts or bone grafting. We will also discuss the time frame for your treatment and the required healing between each stage.
-
Surgical Placement
Dental implants are typically placed under local anesthesia. Sedation is available to patients with anxiety or who require extensive work. Dr. Mamaliger makes a small cut in the gum to expose the bone. He then carefully drills a hole for the implant. The titanium post will then be inserted into your jawbone, and the gum tissue will be stitched back.
-
Osseointegration and Healing
A healing period lasting several months after the implant has been placed is necessary to allow it to fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration, and it is crucial to the strength and stability of the implant. You may receive a temporary restoration to maintain function and aesthetics during this period.
-
Abutment Placement
After osseointegration, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This abutment is used as the foundation for the final restoration, which is typically a custom-made dental crown. The crown, which is made to match your teeth, is attached securely to the abutment to complete the implant process.
Pre-Implant Procedures: Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts
Some patients require preparation procedures before implant placement to ensure the success and durability of the implants. Encino Dental Practice offers advanced techniques, like bone grafting or sinus lifts, that prepare the jawbone to receive implants.
- The Bone Grafting Procedure: A bone grafting procedure is used to replace lost jawbone tissue due to trauma, gum disease, or tooth loss. For the placement of implants to be successful, it is important that there is enough healthy bone. During the grafting process, bone material is added to the deficient area to encourage new bone growth. It may be necessary to wait for a healing period before the implant is placed.
- Sinus Lifts: The sinus lift is a specialized bone grafting technique often needed for patients with implants in the upper teeth, especially in the area around the molars or premolars. It can be performed when the bone height is not sufficient or the sinuses are too close to the jaw to create space for implants. This procedure involves lifting the membrane of the sinus and placing a bone graft to promote new bone growth.
Encino Dental Practice will ensure you receive the treatment necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
Dental Implants: Aftercare and Maintenance
Dental implants are only as successful as the surgeon who installs them and the maintenance and aftercare practices that the patient follows. Encino Dental Practice provides comprehensive advice on maintaining your new implants for their longevity and functionality.
- After-Surgery Care: Some discomfort and minor bleeding are expected immediately following the implant surgery. Dr. Mamaliger can provide detailed instructions for managing these symptoms, including prescribed pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and other medications. It is important to follow these guidelines closely to promote healing and prevent complications.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the health and longevity of your implant. To reduce the risk of infection, we recommend using an antibacterial mouthwash and brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice daily. It is also important to floss daily around the site of the implant to remove food particles and plaque that could lead to periimplantitis. Similar to gum infection, this condition affects the tissues surrounding the implant.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental cleanings and checkups are essential for monitoring the health and condition of your implants. During these appointments, Dr. Mamaliger assesses the stability of your implants, checks for signs of complications, and cleans the area professionally to remove any buildup that could damage the implant.
- Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle elements can impact the longevity of your implant. Smoking can affect the healing process and, therefore, increase the chances of implant failure. A habit such as grinding your teeth or clenching them may also put too much pressure on the implant. If you are prone to these habits, we can protect your implants with night guards.
Call Now to Inquire About Dental Implants
Encino Dental Group offers effective and affordable dental implants. If you have one or more missing teeth and are looking for a permanent solution, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Mamaliger of Encino Dental Group. Our experienced professionals will assess your oral health and develop a customized treatment plan for dental implants to restore your confidence and smile.
Why Should You Choose Encino Dental Practice to Place Your Implants?
Encino Dental Practice is proud of its commitment to patient care and treatment and the use of advanced technology. We provide the following to ensure that our patients receive the best possible outcome:
- Experienced Implant Specialist: Dr. Mamaliger is an experienced implant surgeon who stays current with the most recent techniques and advances in the field. His experience ensures that each implant procedure is carried out precisely and carefully.
- The Latest Technology: Our practice uses the latest dental technology, such as digital imaging and 3-D scanning. This allows us to provide a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, and it enhances the safety and efficiency of the implant process.
- Comprehensive Care: We provide comprehensive treatment under one roof, from the initial consultation to the final restoration. Our team strives to make your implant journey as comfortable and easy as possible. We also focus on long-lasting results.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We recognize that each patient is different, so we listen to their concerns and customize their treatment plan according to their needs. We want you to feel confident, informed, and comfortable throughout the whole process.
- Long-Term Success: Encino Dental Practice is committed to your dental implant’s long-term success. We offer ongoing support and follow-up care to ensure your implants are healthy and functional in the future.