Dental Implants
Dental implants were invented and perfected by Prof. Peers Branemark, an orthopedic surgeon in Sweden, some 35 years ago. Since that time implants have been modified and improved and have now been widely accepted by the dental profession and patients. Dr. Melnick is an Encino dentist that uses Implants frequently.
There are now 23 companies worldwide that make various sizes, shapes and designs of dental implants. Some carefully selected designs have proven to be very successful and have been thoroughly tested. Many are FDA approved in the U.S.
Most studies agree that over 95% of dental implants are still functioning after 15 years. Little else we do in dentistry (such as fillings or crowns) has this success rate. In Encino, Tarzana, Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills dentists use Implants frequently.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are modified surgical Titanium screws. They are placed into the jaw bone. Teeth made of metal and porcelain are cemented above the implant. They are successful because the Titanium surface has been treated so that the implant attaches itself to the surrounding bone. Titanium is very bio-compatible and does not cause any rejection response.
In addition, one great advantage is that Titanium dental implants are not subject to diseases that commonly affect natural teeth such as dental decay or gum disease. The process of placing a dental implant is painless and very simple. An examination is performed and this is supplemented with X- rays and in some cases, with A CAT scan to see the bone in three dimensions. A discussion then occurs to make the patient fully aware of what will be necessary for the procedure, including risks, benefits and alternatives.
The Dental Implant Process
Some patients, especially those who need multiple dental implants may prefer to be sedated for the actual process of implant placement. General anesthesia is sometimes needed. Inmost cases local anesthesia is all that is needed. After placement, there is minimal discomfort and most patients require no any pain medication or antibiotics. Most people have a hard time accepting how easy the whole process really is. Encino dentist Dr. Melnick prefers to have a specially trained implant surgeon place the implant into the jaw.
Once the implant has fused with the surrounding bone, which can take between a few weeks to six months. Restoration can begin.? As we mentioned earlier an implant can be ready for the addition of a tooth on the same day as itâ?€?™s placed. Molds are made of the Implant and the full mouth.
These are sent to special dental technicians who construct a life-like replica of a natural tooth. Once constructed, the tooth is then cemented to the dental implant. The patient is then able to enjoy happy eating and smiling for many years to come with their new permanent single tooth, multiple teeth and even denture stabilization.
Implants can be used these days with confidence due to their strong tract record of success. Most family, cosmetic, and implant dentists in Encino, Tarzana, Woodland Hills, And Sherman Oaks would call implant technology the biggest advance in dentistry in the last 100 years. We agree.
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 "I am so thrilled to have teeth again. I hated my old dentures. They did not chew very well and were always sore and loose. On top of that they made me look older. I don't pretend to know very much about the technology, but I know one thing. I am a happy guy. Thanks Dr. M. You'r the best."
Dave W., auto salesman,? Woodland Hills |