Are you missing a tooth and want a replacement that is both stable and aesthetically attractive? The solution is dental 
implants. Read below to find out what this state-of-the-art tooth treatment can do for you, and call your West Los Angeles, CA, dentist, at Elegant Smile Dental if you are interested in a consultation.
Dental implants are biocompatible fixtures that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They consist of:
- a titanium post that is inserted into a bone
- a screw that secures an abutment over the post
- a crown matching the rest of your teeth
The Dental Implant Procedure at West Los Angeles
Implants are made of titanium and can't be rejected because they don't consist of any living cells. Allergy is possible but very rare, as implants have a 95 percent success rate, making them one of the most reliable dental restorations.
The procedure is straightforward:
- The titanium post is surgically inserted into your jaws to replace the missing tooth roots. It provides stability and strength, preventing any weakening and shrinkage of the jawbone.
- After inserting the titanium post, the dentist seals your gums and allows 3 to 6 months for osseointegration to occur (this is the process in which the post fuses to the rest of your jawbone).
- After healing is complete, your dentist re-opens the area above the titanium post, inserts a screw, places an abutment above the screw, and secures a crown on top that matches the rest of your teeth.
Dental implant surgery is easy and relatively minor. Post-operative care involves applying ice on the surgical area and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
To take proper care of your dental implants, make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day, at least once before bed. A change in diet may also be beneficial, for eating plenty of fruits and vegetables while avoiding sugary foods prevents the accumulation of plaque.
If you're interested in finding out more about dental implants, call your West Los Angeles, CA, office at (310) 207-6453 to learn more!