Dental Implants in Encino, CA

If you are looking for a long-lasting restoration to replace a missing tooth or teeth, board-certified dentists Drs. Alan and Yonatan Howard are happy to perform implant dentistry for their patients in Encino, CA. Implant dentistry uses surgically placed metal posts in your jawbone to replace the missing tooth root. The post(s) may be connected to a crown, denture, or bridge for a natural-looking restoration that can be used like your real teeth. When you want to fix a gap from a missing tooth or teeth, make an appointment to hear more about implant dentistry at The Dental Office Encino. You may enjoy dental implants if you want to avoid food restrictions or the hassle of removable dentures. Talk to Dr. Alan or Yonatan Howard about your needs and figure out if implants are a good option for you.

Implant dentistry can restore a single missing tooth or several teeth by connecting it to an implant-supported bridge, crown, or denture. You may want an implant if you have a dental restoration, but are bothered by the appearance, comfort, or special cleaning needs. Implant-supported restorations can be cared for just like your regular teeth with daily flossing and brushing. In your consultation, Dr. Alan or Yonatan Howard will evaluate the health of your jawbone and gums to decide if you are a good candidate for implant dentistry. In some cases, a bone or gum graft surgery may be needed prior to implant surgery to strengthen the implant's foundation. Dental implant surgery is not a good choice if you use tobacco products, are pregnant, or are being treated for another condition including gingivitis.

To prepare for your dental implants, you may have teeth extracted, plus gum or bone grafts. As soon as you are ready for the implant to be placed, the needed areas will be given local anesthesia to numb your mouth. Sedation methods may be included to keep you comfortable throughout the process. Dr. Howard will create an incision in your gums and then insert the titanium post in your jawbone. The incision in the gums will be sutured with part of the implant above the gums. This will be repeated if several implants are required. While the dental implant integrates into the jawbone and gums over the next several months, a temporary cover will be used to cover and protect the implants. As soon as Dr. Howard decides your implant is stable, your custom restoration (crown, denture, or bridge) can be connected to your implant and adjusted for a proper fit.

You may notice some short-term inflammation in your mouth and lower face, plus discomfort, bruising, and minor bleeding after your implant procedure. Dr. Howard will tell you what is to be expected and what should be reported to our office. He may also write a prescription for pain relievers and antibiotics. As soon as your dental implants are integrated and your customized restoration is connected, you should maintain a good oral care routine at home that includes flossing, brushing, and mouthwash. You should attend annual dental exams and bi-annual professional cleanings at The Dental Office Encino so Dr. Howard can track the health of your implants and restorations. He will decide if your restorations or implants should be repaired or replaced.

Based on your dental insurance company and exact coverage, a portion of the expenses of your implant surgery and custom restoration might be paid for. We will talk to your insurance company to understand your policy and determine your out-of-pocket costs. In your consultative appointment with Dr. Alan or Yonatan Howard, he will estimate your expenses and talk to you about payment methods, along with information on low-interest medical financing.

Implant dentistry may be a wonderful option if you would like a replacement for missing teeth that is simple to clean and can last for years. Drs. Alan and Yonatan Howard will help you understand the entire procedure starting with surgery to implant the posts and your custom restoration options. To get more information on implant dentistry, schedule an appointment at The Dental Office Encino.