What are dental implants?

Do you have a space where a tooth used to be? Were you born with a missing tooth? Are you getting ready for dentures? You may be a good candidate for a dental implant. Metal dental implants were invented in 1965. Technology continues to advance with millions of implants placed in the United States and Canada. Placing implants has become mainstream and a common practice for offices like ours.

A dental implant is a small titanium post, which resembles a screw with threads. The post also has holes for bone to integrate. A dental implant is placed into the jawbone during a short dental procedure. It is relatively painless with very little post-operative pain. The threads on the implant post allow for the bone to fill in and integrate. To facilitate this process the implant is re-covered with gum tissue and allowed to heal and integrate for nearly three months. The implant acts as the root for the tooth to provide solid and stable support for the crown that’s yet to be placed.

The next step in the dental procedure is to uncover the implant and place a healing cap to allow the gum tissue to heal. After a short period of healing, an impression is taken to fabricate a crown to fully restore the missing tooth. The crown is then cemented on top of the post, at which point you can resume normal eating activities.

Dental implants do require some special care, but that is easily managed when you follow the directions outlined by the doctor. During your regularly scheduled cleaning, special instruments are used to clean implants. While a dental implant cannot get a cavity, a condition known as peri-implantitis can occur. This is very similar to periodontal disease as the end result is dental implant loss and loss of bone structure. Be sure to floss the dental implant daily and run the floss under the implant crown as far as it can go to remove food and plaque. If you use any picks or small brushes to go in between your teeth, make sure they are plastic. Metal will scratch the implant making it more susceptible to infection. Be sure to keep your regular dental visits and cleanings to monitor the implant and help preserve your investment.

Our Location

2010 East First Street Suite 230, Santa Ana, CA, 92705

Hours of Operation

Early mornings, late afternoon and Saturday appointments available upon request.

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

  • "Such a caring and wonderful Dr. and team. They had me so comfortable and relaxed during my gum graft i actually fell asleep! His knowledge and technology are superb. Would definitely recommend Dr. Elyassian to anyone!"
    Chelsea M.
  • "Dr. Elyassian and his staff are great. Nice clean office. Very friendly and always give me the best service and treatment. Definitely would recommend."
    Siria R.
  • "I'm so glad I found Dr. Elyassian! I needed a bone and gum tissue graft to fix an issue from a previous dentist and Dr. Elyassian saved the day! He's talented and professional, and he really cares!"
    Arlene
  • "I am amazingly pleased with the friendly and high-quality service I receive every time I go to Dental Implant & Laser Surgical Specialists. Dr. Elyassian's expertise and concern for my overall dental health is truly appreciated."
    Melissa B.