F.A.Q.
Regarding Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing tooth replacement and can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The titanium implant post integrates with your jawbone and becomes a permanent part of your oral structure, while the crown may need replacement after 15-20 years due to normal wear. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding help ensure your implants last as long as possible.
The dental implant process has an impressive success rate of over 95% when performed by experienced professionals like our team at Toluca Advanced Dentistry. Success depends on factors such as your overall health, bone density, oral hygiene habits, and following post-operative care instructions. Our advanced technology and expertise in implant placement help ensure optimal outcomes for our North Hollywood patients.
The cost of different types of dental implants varies based on the complexity of your case and the number of teeth being replaced. Single tooth implants typically range from $3,000-$5,000, while full arch dental implants can range from $15,000-$30,000 per arch. We offer financing options and work with most insurance providers to help make your tooth replacement more affordable, and we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation.
Recovery from the dental implant process is typically manageable with most patients returning to normal activities within 1-3 days. You may experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed medications and ice packs. Following our post-operative instructions, maintaining a soft food diet initially, and attending follow-up appointments are crucial for proper healing and successful integration of your implants.
Most adults in good general health are candidates for dental implants, but we’ll evaluate several factors during your free consultation including bone density, gum health, and medical history. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or certain medications may affect implant success, but many of these issues can be managed with proper treatment planning. We’ll perform a comprehensive examination and discuss your medical history to determine if implants are the right tooth replacement option for you.
Full arch dental implants are permanently fixed to your jawbone and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods without worry about slipping or discomfort. Traditional dentures rest on your gums and may require adhesives, can limit food choices, and may cause sore spots or speech difficulties. Full arch implants also help preserve jawbone structure and provide superior comfort, stability, and confidence compared to removable dentures.
A complete smile makeover timeline varies depending on the treatments involved, but typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. Simple cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening can be completed in one visit, while dental implants require healing time between placement and final restoration. We’ll create a detailed treatment timeline during your consultation, coordinating multiple procedures efficiently to minimize the total treatment time while ensuring optimal results.
If dental implants aren’t within your current budget, we primarily recommend fixed bridges as an excellent alternative for tooth replacement, as they provide stability and comfort similar to natural teeth. Fixed bridges are anchored to your existing healthy teeth and offer superior function compared to removable options, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence. We also offer comprehensive financing plans and payment options to help make dental implants more accessible, as they often provide better long-term value and the most comfortable, permanent solution for missing teeth.
The dental implant process is performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the actual procedure. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than they expected, often comparing it to having a tooth extracted. We also offer sedation options for patients who experience dental anxiety, ensuring your comfort throughout the entire treatment. Any post-operative discomfort is typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications.
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, requiring regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. We’ll provide specific instructions for cleaning around your implants, which may include special brushes or floss designed for implant care. Regular checkups at Toluca Advanced Dentistry allow us to monitor your implants and ensure they remain healthy for years to come. Avoiding hard foods, not using teeth as tools, and wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth will help protect your investment.