The Dental Implant Surgery Process
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Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for missing teeth, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing option. At University Oral Surgery Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Ramin Shabtaie offers expert dental implant procedures to restore smiles and enhance oral health.
Initial Consultation and Planning
The first step in the dental implant process is a thorough consultation with Dr. Shabtaie. During this visit, he will evaluate your oral health, discuss your medical history, and take diagnostic images such as X-rays or CT scans. This helps in creating a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
- Comprehensive oral examination
- Review of medical and dental history
- Diagnostic imaging for precise planning
Pre-Surgery Preparations
Before the surgery, certain preparations are essential to ensure a successful procedure. This might include:
- Treatment of existing dental issues: Any infections or gum disease must be addressed before implant surgery.
- Bone grafting: A bone graft might be necessary to create a stable foundation if there is insufficient jawbone to support the implant.
The Surgical Procedure
The dental implant surgery is typically performed in multiple stages over several months:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Incision and Drilling: A small incision is made in the gum to expose the bone. Then, a hole is drilled into the jawbone to place the implant post.
- Implant Placement: The titanium implant post is inserted into the drilled hole. This post acts as the root for the artificial tooth.
- Healing and Osseointegration: The implant is left to heal and integrate with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration, which can take several months.
Abutment and Crown Placement
Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, the next steps are:
- Placement of the abutment: A connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant post.
- Custom crown fabrication: An impression of your mouth is taken to create a custom-made crown that matches your natural teeth.
- Crown attachment: The final step involves attaching the crown to the abutment, completing the dental implant process.
Post-Surgery Care
Proper post-surgery care is crucial for the success of the implant. Dr. Shabtaie will provide detailed instructions, including:
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Attending follow-up appointments for monitoring
Enhancing Your Smile with Implants
Dental implants not only restore functionality but also improve the appearance of your smile. They are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, providing a long-term solution to tooth loss.
Choosing dental implants with Dr. Ramin Shabtaie at University Oral Surgery Center ensures you receive the highest standard of care in Los Angeles, CA. The comprehensive process, from consultation to final placement, is meticulously planned to deliver optimal results and a beautiful, confident smile.
Sources:
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry: www.aaid-implant.org
- Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org
- WebMD: www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants