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Jan
Why Your Future Smile Depends on the Right Implant Dentist
Most of us take our teeth for granted until we lose one. Then it hits home quickly that losing a tooth is a bigger deal than we ever imagined. Fortunately, dental implants by Drs. Terence, Kayla, and Casey Lau at Mid-Valley Dental Care can get you back to normal. Smiling when you want. Eating what you want.
When It Comes to Feel and Functionality, How Do Dental Implants Compare to Natural Teeth?
Dental implants are made to feel and work just like your own teeth. They’re really stable, way more than dentures, because the implant joins with your jawbone. That’s the process called osseointegration, and it’s what makes the implant feel so solid.
When Would a Person Need a Bone Graft Before Getting Dental Implants?
You need enough strong bone to hold an implant. If a tooth has been missing for a long time, the bone in that spot gets thinner. Gum disease also causes bone loss. A bone graft simply rebuilds that area. It creates a solid base for the implant.
Can Dental Implants Be Used if I’m Missing Multiple Teeth?
Yes, and there are several effective ways to handle it.
- An implant-supported bridge can fill a gap of three or four teeth using just two implants.
- Implant-supported dentures snap right onto implants.
- They’re much more stable than regular dentures and don’t slip or move.
- They look natural and feel solid.
- The dentist will examine your mouth and determine the best course of action. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing.
What Happens If I Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth with a Healthy Dental Implant?
It’s tempting to just ignore a gap, especially if it’s in the back. But it causes problems. Your other teeth will start to shift into that empty space. This can mess up your bite. You also risk losing more bone in your jaw. Your tooth roots are what keep that bone strong. Without a root or an implant, the bone just shrinks away. A healthy dental implant is the only fix that keeps the jawbone strong.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Usually Take?
This isn’t a one-day thing. It takes patience. The whole timeline depends on your body. After the implant is placed, it needs time to heal and join with your jawbone. This can take a few months. If you need a bone graft first, that adds extra healing time. The dentist will give you a personalized plan. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect from start to finish. It’s worth the wait.
Can I Get a Cavity or Tooth Decay in a Dental Implant?
The implant itself and the crown on top are made of materials that can’t decay. So you won’t get a cavity in your implant. But you still have to take care of your gums. Your gums around the implant can still get infected if you don’t keep them clean.
Where Can I Find an Experienced Implant Dentist in Northridge, CA?
At Mid-Valley Dental Care, you’ll find some of the most experienced dental implant dentists in the area. The office is located at 19331 Business Center Dr, #101, Northridge, CA 91324, making it easy to find. Call (818) 886-3500 today to schedule your consultation.
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Terence Lau, DDS, FICOI, FAACP
With more than three decades of education and experience, Dr Terence Lau is a leader in his field. With a Bachelor’s degree in Cell-Molecular Biology from CSUN, he earned his DDS from USC School of Dentistry and received specialized Periodontal Prosthodontics training under experts and pioneers in the field at the University of Washington. He focuses especially on minimally invasive Bio-Aesthetic Implant Surgery, advanced laser dentistry, and more. Dr. Lau is a member of the AGD, ICOI, AO, ACOI, ASO, AAID, AADSM, DOCS, AAFO, and AACFP, and is a nationally recognized lecturer and founder of Bio-Aesthetic Implant and Laser Solutions.
Casey Lau, DDS
Dr. Casey Lau has over 10 years of experience in comprehensive dental care, with an emphasis on minimally invasive bioesthetic dentistry. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and his DDS from UCLA. Dr. Lau specializes in occlusion, orthodontics, cosmetic enhancements, and laser dentistry, with expertise in implantology, clear aligner therapy, oral sedation, and much more. He is a member of the AGD, ICOI, AO, ADA, CDA, DOCS, IAO, and AACA. Along with his wife, Dr. Lau co-founded Elims Oral Care, offering eco-conscious oral care products.
Kayla Lau, DDS, RDH
Dr. Kayla Lau started out as a dental hygienist before she earned her DDS from the renowned USC School of Dentistry. Specializing in restorative and aesthetic dentistry, she is highly skilled in using neuromodulators like Botox and dermal fillers to improve orofacial pain relief and facial aesthetics. Dr. Lau is passionate about Biomimetic Restorative Dentistry, having trained with pioneers in the field. She is an active member of the AGD, ADA, CDA, SFVDS, ABD, and IAAFA, committed to enhancing smiles and overall oral health.