What are dental implants?

Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are permanently placed in your upper or lower jaws through a small surgical procedure. They are indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth. Dental implants do not impact surrounding teeth and are considered a stand-alone restoration.

Dental Implants are also important because they help to maintain the structural integrity of your mouth by not allowing the bone to atrophy. A titanium fixture is inserted in the spot of the missing tooth, which helps the bone remain stable and prevents it from shrinking. 

Dental implant terminology explained

Before describing the procedure, it is important to understand the terminology: Implants refer to the fixture that is surgically inserted into the jaw. The implants secure the prosthetic teeth in place. The crown is the prosthetic tooth itself, and the abutment is the metal fixture that connects the implant to the crown. Dental implants can be done on a tooth-by-tooth basis.

How does implant placement work?

Dental implant placement is a multi-step procedure that requires local anesthetic and sometimes sedation. Before starting the procedure, Dr. Vartanian takes records of the top and bottom teeth and scans of the bite. This is to ensure that the prosthetic teeth fit the existing dimensions of your mouth and feel natural.

After the anesthetic or sedation, Dr. Vartanian makes an incision into the jaw bone to accommodate the implant. Then the implants themselves are carefully placed. After 3 to 6 months, the implant integrates into the bone. A second visit is scheduled after integration is complete, during which the healing cap is uncovered and the abutment and final crown are seated.  

Are you a good candidate for dental implants?

Anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental procedure such as an extraction or root canal is generally a good candidate for dental implants in Newport Beach. However, patients should also have healthy gums and adequate bone to hold the implants in place. If patients smoke cigarettes or suffer from a chronic condition like diabetes or kidney disease, it’s important to share this information with Dr. Vartanian and his team. These issues won’t necessarily disqualify you from receiving dental implants, but they may increase your risk of complications.

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What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants are a viable alternative when crowns, bridges, and removable dentures may not be appropriate. Dental implants look and feel completely natural, giving you a lovely smile and the ability to confidently eat whatever you like. Below are some other benefits of dental implants:

  • Maintains good overall oral health
  • Self-esteem improves significantly with an attractive smile
  • Implants cannot form cavities 
  • Implants last longer than bridges or crowns  

What is the aftercare for dental implants?

After dental implant placement, regular dental check-ups are important to ensure the continued health of your gums and teeth. After the initial procedure, you will need to return for the prosthetic teeth to be placed. Dr. Vartanian may require follow-up visits after the procedure to ensure healing is going well. Some swelling and discomfort are typical afterward, and can be managed with icing and pain medication. After you have fully healed, routine at-home dental care is still important. Though your dental implants cannot decay like natural teeth, the health of your gums and surrounding teeth still need to be diligently taken care of. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing every night before bed are essential.

Expect excellence and comfort

A complex procedure like dental implants requires an experienced dentist for the best results. Dr. Vartanian has been practicing for 24  years, and has built a reputation for excellence in dentistry through extensive post graduate education and top-tier patient care. Along with his highly capable team at the Newport Institute for Dentistry, Dr. Vartanian ensures that each patient has an amazing  experience every time they enter his office. Dr. Vartanian is committed to delivering only the best and most advanced dental therapy available. He has earned the prestigious title of Master of the Academy of General Dentistry due to the hundreds of hours he has dedicated to continued education and community service. Dr. Vartanian is just one of 1.5% of dentists nationwide to earn this honor.

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