Tag: procedure

Diagram comparing dental implants on left with dentures on right

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

At some point in our lives, we unfortunately may come across a time when we need some periodontal work.  Periodontology is the study of dentistry that deals with the inner structures of teeth.  This study includes looking at the diseases that may affect this area and cause disruption within the structure.  If disease and disruption is the case, and it hasn’t been treated for some time, it’s possible that dental implants or dentures may be required.  But, which do you choose?  For years there has been much controversy over which dental treatment is better.  In either case, visiting a periodontist in Los Angeles will help to determine the state of your teeth’s structure and which option is best for you.  Below, we dive into the pros and cons of both.

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Dentist with hands out, translucent tooth in her hands, blue background with bright lights

Foods to Avoid After Your Dental Implant Procedure

After even minor trips to the dentist for routine check-ups, you may be instructed to avoid eating to ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible. With more serious procedures, you may be instructed to not eat for a short period of time and then to only eat very soft or liquid foods for up to 7 days following treatment. This standard is important to maintaining the dental implants you’ve just received, as any deviation from the soft food diet could result in a malfunctioning implant.

For more information on dental implants in Los Angeles, get in touch with Dr. Kao today.

Details About the Dental Implant Procedure

When you receive dental implants, your original, damaged teeth are removed and replaced with new versions. Each implant is unique for individual patients, as they can vary not only in size and shape, but also in coloring and material. Dental implants are more desirable than dentures, as the teeth are replaced with replicas that are permanent, as opposed to dentures which are removable and must be washed daily. This is a more desirable options for many patients, as implants look, feel and perform like natural teeth.

During your implant procedure, Dr. Kao will begin by preparing the implant site. He will ensure that the area is fully capable of receiving a new implant and that the placement will be flawless. Once the site is prepped, he will carefully and skillfully insert the dental implant and seal the area for permanent hold and optimal performance. When your procedure has ended, Dr. Kao may prescribe antibiotics and will instruct you to stay away from hard or crunchy foods for a least three days. To avoid any complications, we’ve compiled an informative list of foods to avoid after your dental implant procedure. Get your beautiful smile back when you contact Dr. Kao’s office today to schedule your dental implants in Los Angeles!

Diet After Dental Implants

The most difficult foods to stay away from following a dental procedure are hard foods that are eaten daily. Things like crunchy vegetables, chips and sandwiches are delicious meals, but dangerous with new implants. Try to get your daily vegetable count in with a can of vegetable soup instead. The cooking of the vegetables will soften them, but you’ll still get a full and healthy meal without damaging your implants. Soup in general is a healthy and delicious option to utilize during your soft foods diet, and it will help you stay away from eating crunchier vegetables that could negatively affect your new implants.

Fruit should also be avoided as much as possible while recovering from dental implant surgery. Items such as apples, peaches, oranges and pears can be too hard for your new implants, or, they can become stuck in between teeth which requires flossing. If this happens near the implant site too soon after surgery, it may damage how the tooth bonds to your mouth. If your implant is only on one side of your mouth, or it is positioned in the front of your mouth, soft fruit such as berries and cut up watermelon can be consumed carefully. If you don’t want to risk it at all, opt for a smoothie. This will allow you to keep up your daily fruit intake and keep your dental implants intact.

For dessert, try to stay away from cookies, even if they’re the soft variety from the grocery store. Don’t eat any version of ice cream that contains nuts or a candy shell, as this could alter the effectiveness of your new implant. If you are craving something sweet, reach for plain ice cream out of the carton, as this is extremely soft and will not do any harm to new and settling implants.

Schedule your first appointment for quality dental implants in Los Angeles today when you call Dr. Kao’s office now! Read more

dentist holding cutaway dental implant model

The Dental Implant Process

Many people fear the word “dental implant”. There are rumors and myths surrounding this dental procedure that cause patients to become uneasy and unsettled instead of considering it as a real option for their health. In reality, dental implants are extremely safe, functional, and viable. At the office of David S.Kao, DDS, your dental implants in Los Angeles are in good hands. We want to make sure you understand what exactly to expect throughout the dental implants procedure.

If you have a broken, missing, or damaged tooth, dental implants can replace your natural teeth to help improve your health and functionality. We implement a 5-step dental implant process to help you understand what to expect, and to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for implants. Below, you can find more information about what dental implants are, and how the process works.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are permanent fixtures that are applied to the mouth with a simple and quick surgical procedure. They act as replacements for your natural teeth, as they are made of a biocompatible titanium material. They can include a single tooth implant, or they can replace an entire row of missing teeth.

This is one of the most highly recommended procedures for natural-looking tooth replacements. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they also work to restore all functionality to your mouth, so that you may chew, smile, and enjoy your favorite activities again.

Our Dental Implant Process

This process is easy, thorough, and safe. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after dental implants in Los Angeles:

1. Assessment – During the assessment phase, Dr. Kao will give you a thorough oral exam to understand your mouth and determine what precautions should be taken during the implants procedure.

2. Preparing for Dental Implants – Next, Dr. Kao will hand-fashion a custom dental implants treatment plan that will work with your mouth’s biggest needs.

3. Preparing the Mouth – The doctor will need to prepare the site for dental implants. This often includes cleaning and tooth extraction.

4. The Procedure – During step 4, Dr. Kao will place the implants into the prepared area of the mouth.

5. Completion – When the procedure is finalized, the doctor will monitor the patient’s health and recovery over the next few weeks. Health concerns should be discussed and properly treated.

Types of Dental Implant Services Available

Dr. Kao’s office offers many different types of dental implants based on the needs of the individual. Some of the most common types of dental implants include:

● Single tooth replacement, which replaces a single area with a dental implant

● Multiple teeth replacement, in which two or more teeth in a row need to be replaced with dental implants

● Teeth in a Day implants, which is a new and advanced procedure that gives patients new implants in a single day

● Full arch restoration, an arch replacement and tooth restoration alternative, which is good for patients who are missing all their teeth

● Dental implant replacement, a procedure that can replace dental implants if they are broken beyond repair

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All on 4 dental implants

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