Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions

We want to make sure all of our patients at Dentalville Panorama City in Los Angeles are informed and educated about any procedure they need. This will help our patients feel at ease knowing what exactly is going to happen throughout the procedure.

What Are Dental Implants?

A framework for replacement teeth, dental implants are titanium supports that are inserted into the gums and fused to the jawbone. These posts serve as supports for an individual crown, a bridge or a set of dentures. The implants hold the artificial teeth firmly in place so they do not slip or wiggle.

Who Is a Candidate for Implants?

To receive implants, you must have adequate oral health. The bone must be strong enough to support the implant, and your gums must be healthy too. A patient whose health qualifies him or her for having teeth removed without complications is usually in good shape for having implants placed. Our dentist will perform an exam to determine whether you are healthy enough for the procedure.

Age is not a factor that disqualifies patients for receiving implants. However, there are other circumstances that can rule out the possibility of implants. For example, if you are a heavy smoker or drinker, you may not be suited for this procedure.

What Should I Expect from the Procedure?

Everyone's implant procedure is different because the preparatory work required depends on the status of your mouth, and the number of implants required also varies.

However, the discomfort associated with an implant procedure is usually reasonably low. Anesthesia further lessens the pain.

If extensive work is needed, the process can take several months to complete. If necessary, we will fit you for temporary artificial teeth until the implant process is finished.

Who Should Perform the Procedure?

It is highly recommended that you turn to an experienced dentist to place your dental implant. This is a technical procedure, and you want the assurance that it will be done right the first time. Therefore, you need a dentist who is experienced at placing implants and who also sets aside the necessary time to complete your work with care and thoroughness. At Dentalville Panorama City, we are passionate and comprehensive with all the work we provide for our patients.

What Are the Costs Involved?

Dental implants do carry a higher price tag than some other options for tooth replacement. The cost, which usually begins around $1,500 and can easily rise to five times that amount for the work on a single tooth, covers both the price of materials and the cost of labor. Placing implants is both an art and a science, and the work is often spread out over a period of time. Therefore, in addition to the purchase price for the materials--and that alone can be high--you must also consider that the amount you pay covers the labor involved in installing a long-term dental device. Insurance does not usually pick up much of the cost.

What Can I Expect After the Procedure?

Implants are able to support attractive artificial teeth that blend nicely with your natural ones. Furthermore, they can be at least as strong as natural teeth, if not more so, and you can resume a normal diet.

Implants can be a long-term solution to your dental woes. In fact, the 10-year success rate for implants is around 93 percent.