Dental Implants in West Hollywood

Dental Implants FAQ

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant integrates with the bone through a process called osseointegration, a custom abutment and porcelain crown are attached to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. Dr. Sherwin Matian uses implant systems backed by decades of clinical research to ensure predictable, long-lasting results at Smile Lounge West Hollywood.

How long does the dental implant process take?

The full process typically spans three to six months. After the implant is placed, a healing period of two to four months allows osseointegration to occur. Once the implant is stable, Dr. Matian takes a digital impression and the final porcelain crown is fabricated and placed. If bone grafting is required first, the total timeline may extend by an additional three to four months.

Are dental implants painful?

The surgical placement is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report less discomfort than they expected — comparable to a tooth extraction. Post-operative soreness typically lasts two to three days and responds well to over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. Dr. Matian provides detailed aftercare instructions and is available if any concerns arise during healing.

How long do dental implants last?

The titanium implant post itself can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. The porcelain crown on top typically lasts 15 to 25 years before it may need replacement due to normal wear. Attending routine cleanings and exams at Smile Lounge every six months helps Dr. Matian monitor the implant, surrounding bone, and gum tissue over the long term.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most healthy adults with adequate jawbone density are candidates. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or active periodontal disease can affect healing and may need to be addressed before implant placement. Dr. Matian uses a cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan to evaluate your bone volume, nerve position, and sinus proximity and determine whether you are a good candidate or whether bone grafting is needed first.

Do dental implants look and feel like natural teeth?

Yes. The porcelain crown is shade-matched and contoured to blend with your surrounding teeth, and the implant post functions like a natural root, transmitting chewing forces into the jawbone. Unlike a removable denture, an implant does not shift, click, or require adhesive — it feels and functions like the tooth it replaces.

What is the advantage of implants over bridges or dentures?

Implants preserve jawbone by stimulating the bone the way a natural root does, preventing the resorption that occurs under bridges and dentures. They do not require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth (as a bridge does) and do not rest on gum tissue (as a denture does). For single-tooth and multi-tooth replacement, implants offer the closest match to natural tooth function and longevity.

How do I get started with dental implants?

Call Smile Lounge West Hollywood at (323) 676-1843 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Matian will review your dental and medical history, take a CBCT scan, and develop a personalized treatment plan with a clear timeline and cost estimate. Our office is located at 8704 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 201A, West Hollywood, CA 90069.