Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of three components: the dental implant, custom abutment and crown.

Dental Implants in Culver City

Dental implants are a method of replacing missing teeth — providing a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. These are the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth allowing to live without having to wear removable appliances like dentures. You can think of dental implants as artificial tooth roots that bond with your natural bone. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances. These artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist.

A dental implant is a component that is surgically inserted into the bone of the jaw. When healed, it is designed to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge or denture. The basis for modern dental implants is a biologic process called osseointegration, in which materials such as titanium form an intimate bond to bone. The dental implant fixture is placed so that it is likely to osseointegrate, then a dental prosthetic is added. In most cases, a CT Scan is used to measure the bone availability and determine the size and position of the dental implant.

For post-operative instructions or questions about a recent procedure, click here.

Custom Abutments and Crowns

Once your dental implant has fully healed, it is stable enough to move forward with the final abutment and crown.

In dentistry, abutments are defined as connecting elements. For dental implants, abutments connect the implant and the final prothesis, such as a crown, bridge or denture. These abutments are typically made from titanium.

The abutment is placed by screwing into the implant, securely holding your crown (the fake tooth) in place. If you have a dental bridge, crowns will be placed on two abutments, connected by other replacement teeth called pontics that rest on top of your gums.

Abutments are usually made in a dental lab and are most commonly made from titanium. Placing the abutment is a minor procedure and is often done with local anesthesia to numb any potential pain. Custom abutments benefit the patient by protecting remaining natural teeth and improving the appearance of the final crown.

Caring for your Dental Implant

Properly caring for your implants is actually very similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day, brushing along the gums and sweeping the toothbrush toward the biting surface of the tooth. Clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or water flossers at least once a day, and consider using other helpful products like antimicrobial mouthrinses and tongue scrapers.

Be sure to see your dental professional for regular appointments – not only to keep your teeth pearly white and bacteria-free but also to check the health of your implant. X-rays may be taken to check the bone level surrounding your implant. The provider will also check the gum tissue near your abutment to make sure the area is healthy and free of inflammation.