Dental Implants in Pasadena, CA

(626) 577-2017
Dental Implants in Pasadena, CA

A missing tooth is more than a cosmetic concern. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift to fill the gap, which can create bite problems, jaw joint issues, difficulty cleaning the teeth, and excessive wear over time. Tooth loss is also one of the most common causes of the sunken face appearance associated with aging. Dental implants address all of these concerns at once.

A dental implant is an appliance used to replace the root of a missing tooth. It is surgically placed in the jawbone in the location of the original tooth root, and an artificial tooth is attached to the top, creating a natural-looking, undetectable replacement. At Prestige Dental, Pasadena dentist Dr. Vasag Bouzoghlanian brings advanced surgical implant training from his residency at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Long Beach, combined with his world-class education in dental implants from the prestigious UCLA School of Dentistry. This, gives him a level of implant experience that goes well beyond what most general dentists provide. He uses only the best products from reputable dental implant companies to ensure precision and longevity. Dental implants have a long track record of success at Prestige Dental in Pasadena, CA.

What Problems Do Dental Implants Solve?

Dental implants in Pasadena at Prestige Dental are appropriate for patients experiencing:

  • A missing tooth or teeth
  • Potential bite and jaw joint problems from teeth shifting to fill the space
  • The sunken face appearance associated with missing teeth
  • Difficulty chewing
  • A desire for a more permanent solution than dentures
  • Loose or unstable dentures and partial dentures

The Dental Implant Process at Prestige Dental

Dental implants in Pasadena require a surgical procedure followed by a healing period before the final restoration is placed. Dr. Bouzoghlanian reports that it generally takes about three to six months for the dental implant to integrate sufficiently with the surrounding bone before the final installation of the artificial tooth or teeth can be completed. During this integration phase, the person can function and chew as they did prior to the surgery.

The dental implant process in Pasadena at Prestige Dental follows these general stages:

Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation

Dr. B evaluates your bone density, gum health, and overall health to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants in Pasadena. He discusses your goals and explains the process in full before any treatment is recommended.

Step 2: Surgical Placement

The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia at our modern, relaxing dental office in Pasadena. Sedation dentistry is available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience. The implant is then allowed to heal and fuse to the bone. Most patients report only mild discomfort after the surgical procedure, and can usually go to work the day after the procedure, as well as carry about their normal activities.

Step 3: Healing Period

It generally takes about three to six months for the implant to fully heal and integrate with the jawbone. During this time, a temporary restoration may be placed if desired by our Pasadena dentist Dr. B.

Step 4: Final Restoration

Once healing is complete, the artificial tooth is attached to the implant with high precision in our Pasadena dental office by Dr. Bouzoghlanian. The result is a natural-looking, virtually undetectable replacement that functions like a natural tooth.



Single Implants vs. Multiple Implants

Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple teeth, depending on your situation, in our Pasadena dental office.

  • Single tooth implant: one dental implant is placed for each missing tooth, topped with a single artificial tooth. This is the most direct and natural-feeling replacement option.
  • Multiple implants: when more than one tooth is missing, several dental implants may provide a base for a series of artificial teeth, known as a fixed bridge.
  • Implant-supported dentures: dental implants in Pasadena can be used to secure a full set of removable dentures for patients who have no remaining natural teeth. This greatly improves chewing ability and eliminates the discomfort and inconvenience of loose dentures, including the need for denture adhesives or creams.
  • Stabilizing partial dentures: dental implants placed by our Pasadena dentist can also stabilize partial dentures in a similar way.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

For patients weighing their tooth replacement options in Pasadena, dental implants and dentures represent very different approaches. Dr. Bouzoghlanian at Prestige Dental in Pasadena generally considers dental implants as far superior to removable dentures in most aspects.

  • Dental implants are strong, stable, durable, and virtually undetectable. They look and function like natural teeth, improve chewing ability, and help prevent the bone loss associated with missing teeth. They require surgery and a healing period, and the initial cost is higher than dentures.
  • Dentures are a removable alternative. In situations where finances are a primary concern, dentures may be the most practical option. However, they can become loose over time and may require adhesives, and they do not prevent jawbone deterioration the way implants do. Dentures can be a better option for individuals where treatment cost and time are a main concern, or for those who aren’t good surgical candidates for dental implants in Pasadena.
  • Fixed bridges may be an acceptable alternative to dental implants in certain conditions.

The best option for your specific situation will depend on your overall health, bone density, and personal goals. Our experienced dentist in Pasadena, Dr. Bouzoghlanian, will give you an honest assessment during your consultation, and will take the time to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option for your situation, so that you will know what to expect at Prestige Dental.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Generally, if you have experienced tooth loss you may be a candidate for dental implants in Pasadena. Successful placement requires:

  • Suitable bone support: dental implants are fused to the bone for anchor support, so adequate bone density and volume is required for success. In areas where the existing bone is insufficient, grafting may be an option to improve the area in preparation for dental implants.
  • Good overall health: dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, and good general health is essential.
  • Healthy gums: patients with periodontal (gum) disease may not have the adequate support needed for the implant to fuse properly.
  • Commitment to oral care: proper care after placement and routine cleanings and exams at Prestige Dental in Pasadena are essential to keeping dental implants in good condition.

There is no age limit for dental implants. They are not usually placed in children and teenagers, whose jawbones are still growing and maturing, but adults of all ages in good health may be candidates after a thorough evaluation. Certain medical conditions, including uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular problems, blood or bone disorders, or active cancer treatment, may interfere with implant placement. Dr. Bouzoghlanian at Prestige Dental in Pasadena will review your full medical history during your dental implant consultation.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Pasadena?

Dental implants are initially more expensive than dentures or fixed bridges. However, these disadvantages are offset by the ease of use, saved time, and long-term health benefits that dental implants provide.

At Prestige Dental in Pasadena, we provide transparent pricing during your dental implant consultation before any treatment is scheduled. We offer CareCredit financing to make dental implant treatment more accessible. Our front desk team is available to help you understand your options and coordinate with your dental insurance benefits where applicable.

Call (626) 577-2017 or request a consultation online to discuss your specific situation

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants in Pasadena

  • A dental implant is a device surgically placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. An artificial tooth is then attached to the top of the implant, creating a natural-looking, undetectable replacement. Multiple implants can support a fixed bridge or secure a full set of dentures.  Dental implants have a long track record of success at Prestige Dental in Pasadena, CA.