Dental Implants — Los Angeles, CA
Permanently Rebuild Your Confident, Complete Smile
In recent years, the Geach Dental team has started recommending implant-supported tooth replacement for more and more patients. Unlike traditional options that only restore the parts of the teeth visible when patients smile, implant-retained dental restorations completely recreate all parts of a lost tooth, including the supportive root system. This offers patients improved comfort, stability, and longevity.
Denture wearers can especially benefit from an implant-retained prosthetic. These fixed dentures renew 70% or more of healthy tooth function compared to the 20% possible with removable dentures. However, many patients with dentures struggle with diminished jawbone density or gum tissue volume that makes them less-than-ideal candidates for implant-retained prosthetics. Luckily for our Los Angeles denture patients, we offer an innovative solution: All-on-4 implant dentures.
Why Choose Geach Dental For Dental Implants?
- Fair Prices with No Surprises
- Entire Treatment Completed in the Same Convenient Location
- Potential to Replace Any Number of Missing Teeth
What Are Dental Implants?
Missing teeth can cause numerous health issues, but it can also cause a drop in your confidence and self-esteem. That’s why at Geach Dental, we offer expertly placed dental implants to create long-lasting and natural-looking tooth replacements. Their stability and health benefits are unmatched, which is why they’re regarded as the only comprehensive replacement.
Dental implants in Downtown Los Angeles are far different than traditional solutions to treat tooth loss. They do not just replace the crown like other methods. Instead, they also substitute the root. By surgically implanting a titanium post into your jawbone, it acts as a new root. By doing so, the jawbone is stimulated to encourage new bone growth. This not only preserves your bone density, but it also allows your jawbone to fuse to the post. As a result, you will enjoy added stability and security that are not possible with other treatments.
The 4 Step Dental Implant Process
To achieve their unique benefits, dental implants are placed with a unique process. Unlike dentures or dental bridges, rebuilding your smile with dental implants is a multistep treatment that takes places over the span of several months. While this is considerably more time than more traditional tooth replacement options, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime! Every patients’ treatment plan will look different, but the process can typically be broken down into these four steps.
Initial Dental Implant Consultation
During your initial consultation, you’ll meet with our expert dentist, Dr. Adam J. Geach, to discuss your smile goals. He will carefully examine your grin to see where you’ll need implants as well as how many you need. Additionally, he will evaluate your overall oral health and correct any issues to ensure you’ll have a positive treatment process. He will also check the strength and size of your jawbone to see if it can accommodate dental implants. This stage of the process is where Dr. Geach may have to recommend a bone graft to ensure the success of your implants. This is a procedure that builds up and strengthens your jawbone so that implants can be placed.
Dental Implant Surgery
Dr. Geach, an expert implant dentist in Downtown Los Angeles, will make a small incision in your gums to expose your jawbone. He will then drill a tiny hole into your bone, where he will place your dental implant. Although this sounds painful, you will be completely numb, and we also offer sedation dentistry to keep you relaxed during surgery. Additionally, your jawbone doesn’t have any pain-sensing nerves, making this a more comfortable experience than you may expect.
Dental Implant Osseointegration & Abutment
Here is where the magic happens. Because dental implants are made of titanium, they actually integrate into your bone. This osseointegration process can take 4 to 6 months, but the result is a sturdy and stable support for dental restorations that can last a lifetime. During this waiting period, you’ll be given a temporary crown to fill the gap in your smile. Once your implant has fused to your jawbone, Dr. Geach will take your temporary crown off and attach an abutment. This is a connector that allows for the placement of a permanent crown, bridge, or denture.
Delivery of Dental Implant Restorations
Once your dental implant is integrated into your jawbone and it is fastened with an abutment, Dr. Geach will attach your restoration of choice. Whether you need a crown, bridge, or denture will depend on your health and how many teeth you’re missing. While this overall process may seem long, it is the only tooth replacement solution that offers incredible health benefits in addition to a natural looking and feeling smile. Contact our office today to get started on a complete, strong, and beautiful set of teeth.
Advanced Dental Implant Procedures
At Geach Dental, we do everything we can to ensure the success of our patients’ dental implants. As a result, in some cases, we may need to perform additional procedures before we place the implants to create a more hospitable environment. Keep in mind that the only real requirements for dental implants is a generally healthy mouth and substantial jawbone density. We offer various treatments to get the jawbone ready to receive implants and fully restore smiles!
Bone Grafting
Soon after a tooth is removed, the jawbone starts to deteriorate in that area in a process called resorption. Even those who recently have lost a tooth may not have enough jawbone to undergo implant placement right away. First, Dr. Geach can add in a bone graft, which can be real bone or synthetic, to build it back up. After a few months of healing, we can then move on to the placement procedure and feel more confident in our success.
Sinus Lift
The upper back jawbone is located directly next to the sinus membrane. In this area of the mouth, the bone density is already thinner, which only makes replacing teeth here even more difficult. As a result, a sinus lift, which entails surgically lifting the sinuses to make room for a bone graft, often becomes necessary. After making an incision in the gums and bone, Dr. Geach raises the membrane and fills the space with grafting material.
Ridge Expansion
In certain situations, the jawbone may have the right height but not enough density or thickness in the ridge. For these cases, we surgically widen the jawbone by dividing it in half, separating the two sides and filling it with grafting material. Over the course of a few months, the bone heals, resulting in a more robust arch to position implant posts.
Benefits of Dental Implants
If you want to permanently rebuild your confident, complete smile with the next best thing to natural teeth, there’s simply no better option than dental implants! This state-of-the-art tooth replacement option offers a bevy of important benefits that you simply can’t get with traditional solutions like dentures and traditional bridges. Dental implants have the potential to dramatically improve your confidence, health, and quality of life. Read on to learn more about some of the benefits that our patients love about dental implants.
Day-to-Day Benefits
- Seamlessly Natural-Looking: Dental implants are used to support custom-made crowns, bridges, and dentures that are designed to look just like real teeth. No one will be able to tell that they are not natural teeth.
- They Feel Comfortable & Secure: With the implant post fused directly into your jawbone, it will never feel loose or pop out of place at embarrassing times. This unique placement also means that it will never cause gum sores or irritation. In fact, dental implants are so secure and comfortable, that some patients forget they even have them!
- Eat All Your Favorite Foods: Dental implants offer the most restoration of your natural biting force. Dentures and dental bridges can only restore about 30% of your natural biting power, making it nearly impossible to enjoy hard or chewy foods. On the other hand, dental implants can restore 75% biting power or more, allowing you to eat anything on your plate with ease.
Health Benefits
- Improved Oral Health: Dental implants keep remaining teeth from shifting out of place and are easier to keep clean than traditional options. This dramatically lowers your risk for cavities, gum disease, and other serious oral health issues.
- Prevent Jawbone Deterioration & Future Tooth Loss: Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that stimulates the jawbone and prevents its deterioration, which keeps your facial features from looking sunken and ages. It also supports the foundation of your remaining healthy teeth and lowers their risk of falling out.
- Doesn’t Damage Remaining Healthy Teeth: Since they are self-supporting like natural teeth, dental implants do not put any unnecessary wear or irritation on your remaining healthy teeth or your gum tissue.
Long-Term Benefits
- High Success Rate: As one of the most successful tooth replacement options available, studies indicate that 95% or more of dental implants are successful, even 10 years after placement.
- Long-Term Solution: With minimal aftercare, dental implants are designed to last for 30 years or more. However, if you practice great oral hygiene, you can easily expect your new smile to last a lifetime.
- Save Money in the Long Run: Dental implants initially cost more than options like dentures and dental bridges. However, these traditional restorations can break easily and will need to be replaced every five to seven years. This can cost you quite a bit of time and money over the years. On the other hand, the one-time cost of dental implants has the potential to last a lifetime, which can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Who Dental Implants Can Help
Thanks to modern dental technology and techniques, practically anyone suffering from tooth loss can benefit from dental implants. However, not everyone is considered a good candidate right away. During your initial consultation, we’ll carefully inspect your smile to see if dental implants are a good fit for you, or if you need to complete any preliminary treatments first.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Generally speaking, there are three key factors that determine if a patient is a good candidate for dental implants. They need to have:
- Great oral health
- Good overall health
- Adequate jawbone density
Without these three components, your dental implant could fail. Thankfully, Dr. Geach can help you overcome the obstacles you face to get you ready for your brand-new smile.
Often, it is believed that you can only use dental implants to replace a single tooth; however, this is untrue. Your dentist in Downtown Los Angeles can also use them to treat multiple missing teeth or an entire arch.
Missing 1 Tooth
To replace a single missing tooth, you will have a biocompatible implant post surgically placed into your jawbone. Over the next several weeks, new bone will grow to allow your jaw to fuse to the post. Once it has healed, an abutment is placed on the post. This is needed to connect a custom-made dental crown.
Missing Multiple Teeth
Now, you have an alternative to a traditional bridge that will not damage your adjacent teeth. Instead of using dental crowns to hold the appliance in place, and average of 1 or 2 posts are used to anchor it to your jawbone. This method is more effective than if you were to replace each tooth individually.
Missing All Teeth
An entire arch can also be replaced using dental implants. You will not need to rely on suction or an adhesive to hold your denture in place. Instead, an average of 4 implant posts are used. You will not have to worry about any slipping or irritation because it will stay securely in place.
Understanding the Cost of Dental Implants
Dental implants in downtown Los Angeles allow you to make a long-term investment in your oral health and your quality of life. Although they cost more upfront than traditional options, they are more cost-effective because they have the potential to last a lifetime. The amount you can expect to pay is determined by your individual treatment plan. Single tooth replacement might cost a few thousand dollars, while full-mouth replacement may cost up to $60,000.
We discuss the various factors that influence the price during your consultation and explain your payment options to keep your new smile within your budget. We want to help you afford your treatment!
Preliminary Treatments & Dental Implant Surgery
It is common for patients to need additional procedures before their dental implants are placed, such as tooth extractions, bone grafting, or a sinus lift. Each of these services incurs its own fee. Your dental implant placement surgery will have its own price, which will depend on how many implants Dr. Geach is placing. The amount and type of sedation and/or anesthesia will also contribute to your total cost.
In most cases, Dr. Geach is able to perform every stage of implant treatment, including the placement surgery, right here in our practice. You won’t have to worry about dealing with the pricing structure of another implant dentist in downtown Los Angeles.
The Parts of Your Dental Implant
Just like there are many different types of cars and car manufacturers, there are also many different companies that sell dental implants and other materials related to the procedure. There are some discounted manufacturers available; however, they can be low-quality and compromise the long-term success of the treatment. That is why Dr. Geach is picky about where he purchases dental implants.
Additionally, there are many different types of implant procedures. For example, some forms of full arch replacement might require just a few dental implants, while others require more. The more implants you need, the higher the price will be.
We offer a variety of payment options to cover any remaining out-of-pocket expense, such as third-party financing with CareCredit.
Final Dental Implant Restoration
The crown, bridge, or denture that will go on top of your dental implants comes with its own price, which will depend on its size and the materials used to make it. If more than one type of restoration might be appropriate for you, Dr. Geach will help you compare the pros and cons of each of your options.
Does My Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
It is becoming more and more common for dental insurance policies to cover dental implants. However, some still do not. Our team will help you navigate your coverage and use it as fully as possible. Even if it doesn’t apply to the implants themselves, it might mitigate your out-of-pocket expenses for your final restoration or preliminary treatments.
Making Dental Implants Affordable
Our team would like to help you manage the cost of dental implants in downtown Los Angeles. That is why, in addition to helping you figure out your insurance, we are also pleased to accept financing through CareCredit. CareCredit is a third-party lender that offers low-interest and no-interest payment plans for medical and dental services. With qualifying credit, you can select a plan that works with your budget.
Dental Implants Post-Op Instructions
The immediate next step after dental implant surgery is to give your mouth time to heal. You’ll only be able to receive your new teeth once your recovery is complete. To make sure that the healing process stays on schedule, we’ll give you a few post-op instructions. Some of the most important guidelines are detailed below. We may give you additional instructions if circumstances call for it, and we encourage you to call us if complications occur.
What to Do Directly After Dental Implant Surgery
You don’t want the blood clot at the surgical site to be disturbed, so during the first few days of recovery, be sure to:
- Drink everything directly out of a glass instead of through a straw.
- Give up tobacco products of any kind.
- Keep your tongue away from the surgical site as best you can.
- Get rid of excess saliva with tissues instead of spitting.
Common Side Effects When Recovering from Dental Implant Placement
The side effects that you’ll likely experience after dental implant surgery can all be easily dealt with:
- Bleeding can be stopped with gauze and a little bit of pressure.
- Swelling can be reduced with an ice pack. (Be careful not to apply the pack for more than 15 minutes at a time.)
- Pain can be controlled with prescription or over-the-counter painkillers.
Your symptoms should diminish and disappear over time; inform us immediately if this is not the case.
Your Diet After Dental Implant Surgery
You won’t be able to eat anything that requires a lot of chewing right after your implant surgery. Your diet should instead include mashed potatoes, pasta, and other soft foods. Any soups should be smooth and not too hot. You will be able to return to more solid foods once your recovery is finished; however, your implants will still be in the process of fusing with your jawbone, so take care not to chew directly on them.
Post-Op Health & Oral Hygiene
When you don’t keep your mouth clean, the bacteria that are allowed to thrive can eventually cause an infection. This is the last thing you want when your jawbone is attempting to form a bond with your dental implants, so oral hygiene is of the utmost importance while your mouth is healing. Be sure to:
- Brush like you normally would while being careful around the areas where the implant posts have been inserted.
- Rinse with salt water whenever you’re done eating a meal.
- Stay away from alcohol-based mouthwash. (Alcohol can slow down healing.)
What to Do After Your New Teeth Are Attached
Months after your dental implant surgery, the final restoration(s) will be attached to your implants in order to put the finishing touches on your new smile. This part of the process is much easier; the only side effect you’re likely to notice is mild sensitivity. You should be well past the point of swelling or bleeding. If there are any concerning side effects, there’s likely some type of dental issue that needs to be treated, so please give us a call.
Maintaining & Caring for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are made to last for decades, but you need to take care of them to make sure that you maximize their lifespan. After your implants have been placed and restored, Dr. Geach will give you tips for taking care of them. As long as you keep your mouth healthy, you’ll be able to use your implants to eat, speak, and smile comfortably and confidently for a very long time. Below are a few general tips that will help you keep your implants safe and intact.
Make Oral Hygiene a Priority
Dental implants are not affected by tooth decay, so you don’t have to worry about cavities in your replacement teeth. The gums supporting the post, however, are another story, as they can still become infected. If bacteria destroy the tissues holding the implant in place, it could end up failing. Furthermore, any bacteria on your implant could end up spreading to your natural teeth can causing decay. Taking the time to brush and floss thoroughly will keep your smile healthy and your implants in excellent shape.
Eat a Healthy Diet
One of the advantages of dental implants is that you can eat whatever you like. That said, such freedom is accompanied by responsibility; you need to make sure that you’re not eating too many sugary or starchy foods that can lead to poor gum health. Instead, try to eat more foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin C, which will help keep the area around your dental implants healthy so that they can remain in place for as long as possible.
Break Bad Habits
Even titanium implants can still be damaged, as can the restorations they support. You don’t want to lose your new teeth to bad habits, so it’s important to take note of risky behaviors and end them as soon as possible. If you smoke, look up resources that can help you quit. Do not bite down on your fingernails, ice, pen tips, or anything else that’s excessively hard. Open packages with scissors or another appropriate tool; never use your teeth under any circumstances.
Protect Your Dental Implants
It’s not uncommon to clench or grind your teeth when you’re feeling stressed. This can even occur while you’re asleep, and it can take quite a toll on dental implants if it goes unchecked for too long. Investing in a mouthguard to wear at night could save your implant from unnecessary damage down the road. You should also be wearing a mouthguard if you play any sort of sport so that the post isn’t damaged by a sudden blow to the jaw. We highly recommend getting one of our custom mouthguards instead of a store-bought one for the best possible fit and protection.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Naturally, no dental implant maintenance plan would be complete without regular checkups. We can check on your implant posts and the customized restorations to ensure that there are no problems developing. We can then begin the implant salvage process as soon as possible when necessary.
Dental Implant FAQs
Dental implants are a preferred tooth replacement option, but by opting for them, you are making a huge investment in your smile. It’s important that you are well-informed. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we are asked about dental implants in Downtown LA. If you don’t see the information that you’re looking for below, don’t worry! Give us a call and we’d be happy to answer your questions and get you started with an initial consultation.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The lifespan of dental implants completely depends on the health and lifestyle choices of the patient. To ensure that dental implants last, be sure to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash on a daily basis. Attending regular cleanings and checkups is also crucial. Avoid chewing on anything that is particularly hard or sticky. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last upwards of 30 years! This is several times longer than the average bridge or denture.
Does Getting Dental Implants Hurt?
The jawbone doesn’t have very many nerve endings, and your mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins. You will also most likely be sedated, lowering your body’s ability to register pain. While the surgery shouldn’t hurt, your mouth may be sore for a few days afterwards, so take recommended over-the-counter and prescribed pain medication as directed. Cold compresses can also be effective at relieving soreness. If discomfort worsens instead of improving after two or three days, give us a call!
Will I Have to Take Off Work for Dental Implant Surgery?
For most patients, one or two days off work is sufficient for getting dental implants. However, every case is different. If your job is physically demanding, you may want to take at least three to four days off, as heavy exercise can divert blood from the implant site and delay healing. During your initial consultation, Dr. Geach will be able to give you a more specific recommendation for your unique case.
Can I Get Dental Implants If I Smoke?
Being a smoker doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants, but smokers do have a higher rate of dental implant failure. This is because smoking causes dry mouth, slows down healing, and can interfere with the body’s ability to fuse with the jawbone. Smoking can also lead to dry socket. If you smoke, you should quit at least two weeks before the procedure and two to three months afterward. Of course, this is also a great time to consider giving up the habit for good.