Implant Dentistry
Services
Services
Implant Dentistry
As a comprehensive dental practice, we’re able to do a lot here that patients may otherwise be referred out for. We believe our patients shouldn’t have to make trips all over town to receive their dental care, and that is why we offer comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry in-house, delivered by our highly trained and experienced staff.
Do I Need a Dental Implant?
Rather than live in a difficult, painful or embarrassing smile, ask yourself if it’s time to feel confident again with implant dentistry. Unlike a dental bridge or denture, dental implants are the only form of tooth replacement to be fixed permanently into the jaw and won’t slip, shift or fall out of place. Considered a permanent dental solution, they are ideal for patients seeking a better life with dental implants in Westlake Village.
Recovering From Tooth Loss
Losing one or more teeth due to age, decay or a dental injury can be difficult, but if a tooth isn’t replaced early-on, the effects of tooth loss can be quite damaging. Left untreated, tooth loss can lead to a number of dental health related problems:
- Increased risks for periodontal disease, TMJ pain or further tooth loss
- Adjacent teeth will shift or move, changing the alignment of the bite
- A poor bite can reduce abilities to bite, chew or speak properly
- Rapid bone loss in the jaw can lead to an aged or sunken face shape
- Even one lost tooth can undo years of orthodontic treatment
What Is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are made up of small titanium posts that are carefully placed into the jaw to support a natural looking replacement tooth (a dental crown, or “pontic”). Made of a tooth-loving titanium, dental implants fuse into the jawbone to fit securely into place.
How Long Does A Dental Implant Take?
The length of time for dental implant treatment varies from patient to patient for a number of factors, including: your current dental health condition, the number of teeth involved, which teeth need to be replaced and if tooth extraction is necessary to prepare for a dental implant. Your dentist will also ask to review your medical history and determine your specific goals with tooth replacement.
Single-Tooth Replacement
Do you need just one tooth replaced with a dental implant? A single tooth implant has advantages over a fixed bridge that is attached to two or more teeth. With a dental bridge, your dentist will have to shave down normal, healthy teeth to make room to support the bridge. A dental implant, however, is placed directly into the jawbone and serves much like a healthy tooth root, promoting bone density in the jaw without having to alter your healthy, normal teeth.
Implant-Supported Denture
For patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, implant-supported dentures can serve as an affordable and high quality dental solution. The benefits of implant-supported dentures include enhanced stability, functionality and reduced pressure to the gums than traditional dentures. Because dental implants are embedded into the jaw, an implant-supported denture will provide constant stimulation to the jawbone and in effect can reduce or protect the jaw from future bone loss after teeth go missing. For patients looking for tooth replacement that will not require as many adjustments as regular dentures, an implant-supported denture is a desirable alternative.
Our Dental Implant Process
Dental implants require a high attention to detail and accuracy. At your appointment for dental implants, Dr. Lundy and Dr. Parsaee use their unique training and skills in CEREC and dental technology to deliver the best results for your individual smile.
- First, a general anesthetic is applied to comfortably numb the area. Sedation dentistry may be recommended for patients with dental anxiety who desire deeper relaxation throughout the process.
- Your dentist carefully inserts a dental implant into the jawbone using precision technology.
- A few months give the implant time to fuse with the jawbone and to form a strong anchor.
- Once the implant is properly secured into place, a connector piece known as an “abutment” is connected to the post.
- The prosthesis (dental crown, bridge or implant-supported denture) is made and attached to the dental implant and abutment to appear.
What To Expect With Dental Implants
Dental implants behave just like normal, regular teeth. In fact, you may be the only one to know that your new implant and crown isn’t a regular tooth! After treatment with implant dentistry, we recommend brushing and flossing regularly and making visits to the dentist for a checkup and exam. Interested in restoring your smile after tooth loss? Give us a call to schedule a consultation for dental implants in Westlake Village.
"Our family has been going to Westlake Dental for over 30 years, and the kindness and professionalism has never changed. Everyone there is genuine and great! Thank you all for taking care of us!"
"I’m really happy here. I’ve been going here for about 3 years and was referred by a friend. First dentist I’ve found in a long time that I feel really cares about my teeth. My cleanings are timely and lots of attention to detail. I recently also got a new retainer and the mold was a perfect fit. Everyone is so pleasant and I’m very happy I’ve found a dentist I can trust."
"Excellent service. Friendly and kind, especially Dr. Lundy. My daughter was very frightened about getting her tooth pulled and he calmed her worries and had it out before she knew what was going on. The hygienist was excellent as well- for both myself and my daughter. Her kind smile and great stories pass the time quickly. Thank you, June and Dr. Lundy!"
"Let’s face it, going to the dentist isn’t something most of us look forward to but I have to say, I really don’t dread it anymore. Kathy is always on time and does a great job cleaning my teeth and I feel like I’ve just had a great visit with a good friend when I leave."
"I've been a patient here for over 15 years and actually enjoy going to this office for care and treatment. Very professional, caring, friendly and helpful. Feels like a family and they seem to enjoy working there. Technically adept both in the front office and with the latest in dental care and treatment (crowns while you wait!)."
"I've been happily using Westlake Dental Associates for several years. The staff is very friendly and I am always greeted by name and a smile. Drs. Wuesthoff and Lundy provide first class service and are quick to respond on those occasional after hours emergency calls. They use the latest high-tech dentistry equipment and techniques. They are truly the best!"
"I came to Dr. Lundy based on a friend's recommendation. I had not seen a dentist in over ten years. I found the whole experience to be amazing. I was initially greeted in a comfortable setting where Dr. Lundy got to know me and my concerns and/or fears. He was very reassuring. The whole process of getting x-rays, to a cleaning, and then having a cavity filled was great. I was never in any pain or even uncomfortable and he explained every step as he was going through the procedures. I will definitely be back in less than ten years!"
"This was my first visit to Westlake Dental Associates and it was such a friendly and welcoming environment that I felt at ease right away. My hygienist, Cathy, was patient and careful and Dr. Lundy was very thorough and took time to talk to me and answer my questions. It was a great overall experience. If you are at all dissatisfied with your current dental facility, I highly recommend giving Dr. Lundy and his office a try!"