Our dentists and team understand the importance of a confident smile. Our expert team, led by Dr. Leila Zamiri, Dr. Leila Zamiri, and Dr. Leila Zamiri, specializes in providing dental implants that not only enhance your smile but also restore your oral health. Our practice stands out for its friendly, kind, and caring environment, where we offer individualized attention and dedicate one-on-one time with each patient. We take pride in welcoming all patients, including emergency cases on the same day, ensuring that no one has to wait to start their journey toward a better smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for missing teeth, providing a durable, permanent base for replacement teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, mimicking the root of a tooth. This titanium post acts as an artificial tooth root, creating a stable foundation that integrates with your natural bone structure through a process called osseointegration.
The implant system consists of three main components: the titanium implant post that’s placed in the jawbone, an abutment that connects the implant to the crown, and the custom-made crown that serves as your visible tooth. This comprehensive approach not only offers superior stability but also promotes jawbone health, preventing the bone deterioration that often accompanies tooth loss. We use the latest implant technology to ensure optimal results for our Long Beach patients.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults in good general and oral health are excellent candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates should have adequate bone density to support the implant, healthy gums free from periodontal disease, and be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Additionally, candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking, as tobacco use can significantly impact healing and implant success.
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, cancer treatment, or autoimmune disorders, may affect candidacy and require special consideration. Age is rarely a limiting factor – we’ve successfully placed implants in patients from their twenties to their nineties. Our team carefully assesses each patient’s medical history, bone structure, and oral health during a comprehensive consultation to ensure that dental implants are the right choice for their specific dental needs and lifestyle.
The Dental Implant Process
The process of getting dental implants involves several carefully planned steps, tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. Initially, we conduct a detailed examination using advanced 3D imaging technology to assess bone density and plan the precise implant placement. This thorough planning phase ensures optimal positioning for both function and aesthetics.
The first surgical phase involves the precise placement of the titanium implant post into the jawbone under local anesthesia. Following this procedure, a healing period of 3-6 months allows for osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a strong, permanent foundation. During this time, patients can wear a temporary restoration if needed.
Once healing is complete, we attach the abutment and take impressions for your custom crown. The final step involves placing the permanent crown, which is carefully crafted to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Throughout this process, our team ensures maximum comfort and effectiveness, utilizing the latest techniques and technologies while providing the personalized care that sets our Long Beach practice apart.
Benefits of Implant Dentistry
Choosing dental implants offers numerous life-changing benefits that extend far beyond simple tooth replacement. Implants provide superior stability and function, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without worry and speak with complete confidence. Unlike removable dentures, implants feel and function like natural teeth, eliminating the embarrassment of slipping or clicking.
From a health perspective, dental implants help preserve your facial structure by preventing bone loss that occurs when tooth roots are missing. This preservation maintains your youthful appearance and prevents the sunken look often associated with missing teeth. Additionally, implants don’t require alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, unlike traditional bridges, preserving your natural tooth structure.
The convenience factor cannot be overstated – implants require no special cleaning routines or adhesives, just regular brushing and flossing. We’ve witnessed the transformative power of implant dentistry in our Long Beach patients, not only improving smiles but also dramatically boosting confidence and quality of life.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Pros: Dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95% and offer unmatched durability, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. They provide superior comfort and function compared to removable alternatives, eliminate dietary restrictions, and maintain jawbone health. Implants also offer excellent aesthetics, as crowns are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Cons: The implant process requires a longer treatment timeline compared to other tooth replacement options, typically spanning several months. The initial investment is higher than dentures or bridges, though the long-term value often makes implants more cost-effective. Some patients may require additional procedures like bone grafting if insufficient bone density exists. Additionally, like any surgical procedure, there are minimal risks of infection or implant failure, though these are rare when proper protocols are followed.
Our experienced dentists and team are committed to discussing all aspects of dental implant treatment transparently, ensuring our patients from Long Beach and surrounding areas like Lakewood, Signal Hill, and Bellflower make fully informed decisions about their oral health investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and regular dental check-ups. The crown may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implant post itself typically remains stable permanently.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Our skilled dental team uses advanced techniques and offers various sedation options to ensure a comfortable experience. Post-operative discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost varies depending on individual needs, the number of implants required, and any additional procedures needed. We offer transparent pricing and accept most PPO plans to make treatment accessible. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed treatment plan with all associated costs.
Can dental implants fail?
While rare (occurring in less than 5% of cases), implant failure can happen, often due to infection, insufficient bone integration, or certain health conditions. Our team ensures thorough planning, precise placement, and comprehensive follow-up care to minimize this risk.
Are dental implants right for me?
The best way to determine if you’re a candidate for dental implants is to schedule a consultation with our team. We’ll assess your specific needs, medical history, and oral health to discuss the best options for your situation.
How do I care for dental implants?
Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth – regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. We’ll provide specific care instructions and recommend any special tools that might be helpful for maintaining your implants.
At Leila Zamiri DDS, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care in Long Beach, ensuring each patient achieves the smile they’ve always wanted. Our commitment to a friendly, personalized approach and same-day emergency availability sets us apart, making us your top choice for dental implants in Long Beach, California. Contact us today at 562-422-6868 to start your journey toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.