Enjoy permanent teeth replacement with implants at Beverly Hills, CA area dental practice

At Beverly Hills Advanced Specialties of Dentistry, patients of the Beverly Hills, California area can seek the assistance of Drs. Frank Vidjak and Fanny Yacaman. These dentists are excited to offer a wide selection of treatment options for patients to choose from to improve their smiles. While teeth are meant to last a lifetime, problems can occur over the years, including infection, disease, and decay, which can impact the natural adult teeth. They can sometimes result in a patient losing a tooth or requiring the extraction of a tooth. When this happens, patients need to work with their dentist to determine the best course of action for replacement. For many patients who visit our facility, dental implants are a recommended solution.

Dental Implant FAQs

What is a dental implant?

Drs. Frank Vidjak and Fanny Yacaman describe the dental implant as a synthetic tooth root that looks like a small post and is made of titanium. Titanium is a metal that is biocompatible with the body, which is why it is a common choice for bone and joint implants used in other areas of medicine. The post is placed into the bone of the jaw, where it can become strong and stabilized due to osseointegration (stimulated bone growth). Once the dental implant is in place within the jaw, it can then be restored over the top abutment to replace one or more teeth.

How many teeth can dental implants replace?

There are a few ways in which the dental implant can be restored to replace one or more teeth:

  • A dental crown – the placement of a dental crown on the abutment of the dental implant is commonly used for replacing a single tooth.
  • A dental bridge – one or more teeth in a row can be replaced when a dental bridge is placed over the top of the dental implant abutment.
  • Dentures – implant-retained dentures are a highly desirable method of replacing an entire arch of teeth without having to mess with traditional full dentures and poor stability and strength. A custom denture is made to snap into the dental implants along the arch for the best functionality.

Are you considering permanent teeth replacement options such as dental implants?

Connect with Drs. Frank Vidjak and Fanny Yacaman of Beverly Hills, California, to discuss this and other alternative solutions available at the practice. The office can be reached at (310) 878-6455 and is conveniently located at 465 N. Roxbury Drive in Suite #703.

What role do dental implants play in tooth restoration?

Dental implants can support a single dental crown, a dental bridge, or a complete denture, and if properly cared for, they can last a lifetime.

What should I expect during implant placement?

Dental implants are screw-shaped rods placed into the jawbone to resemble the root of a tooth. A single implant is required for a single missing tooth; however, crowns and complete dentures can be placed on 2-6 implants in a single treatment.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Because implant-supported teeth replace both the visible part of the tooth and the stabilizing tooth roots, they provide many benefits, including a natural appearance, a natural feel in the mouth, optimal function, they stop or prevent devastating bone loss and support the strength of the bone in the jaw.

Why do dentists choose titanium for the dental implant post?

Dentists choose titanium for dental implant posts because it is a biocompatible material that integrates well with the body without causing adverse reactions. Titanium is also incredibly strong and durable, making it ideal for supporting the chewing forces experienced by teeth. Additionally, titanium promotes osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable and long-lasting foundation for the dental crown. Its proven success in medical and dental applications makes it the preferred choice for implants, ensuring patients receive a reliable and long-term tooth replacement solution.

Will a dental crown be used with my dental implant for a natural appearance?

Yes, a dental crown will be placed on your implant for a natural appearance. The crown is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth’ shape, size, and color, ensuring it blends seamlessly into your smile. Once the implant post is fully integrated with the jawbone, the crown is attached, completing the restoration process. This combination mimics the look and function of a natural tooth, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile confidently. The dental crown ensures your implant looks and feels like a natural part of your smile.

How long should a dental implant last?

With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution, and their longevity depends on factors like good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and overall health. The implant post, made from durable titanium, fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, providing a stable foundation. However, the crown on top of the implant may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear. Maintaining healthy gums and avoiding habits like smoking can help prolong the life of both the implant and the crown.

Are there symptoms to watch out for during healing that could indicate failure?

During healing, it’s important to watch for symptoms that could indicate implant failure, such as persistent pain, swelling, or redness around the implant site. If the implant feels loose or you experience difficulty chewing, it may indicate improper osseointegration. Additionally, infection at the implant site (peri-implantitis) can cause discomfort, pus, or bad breath. Excessive bleeding or prolonged healing time can also be warning signs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly to address potential issues and ensure successful healing.

What is osseointegration?

Osseointegration is when the titanium dental implant post-fuses with the jawbone. After the implant is placed, the bone grows and bonds with the titanium, securing the implant. This integration provides a stable foundation for the implant, allowing it to function like a natural tooth root. The process typically takes several months, during which the implant becomes a permanent part of the jaw. Successful osseointegration is essential for the long-term success of the implant, as it ensures stability and durability, allowing the attached crown to function like a natural tooth.

Why is osseointegration so critical to the dental implant process?

Osseointegration is critical to the dental implant process because it provides the necessary stability for the implant to function as a permanent tooth replacement. When the titanium post fuses with the jawbone, it forms a strong bond that allows the implant to withstand the pressures of chewing and speaking. Without successful osseointegration, the implant could become loose or fail altogether. This process mimics the natural relationship between tooth roots and bone, ensuring that the implant remains securely in place and functions like a natural tooth for long-term success.

Will dental insurance cover my dental implant?

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies by provider and policy. Some plans may cover some of the costs related to the implant procedure, such as the consultation, extractions, or the crown, but often classify the implant as a cosmetic procedure, which may not be covered. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand the details of your plan. Many dental offices also offer payment plans or financing options to make the cost of dental implants more manageable. Your dentist can help guide you through your options based on your specific coverage.


Learn About Dental Implants in Beverly Hills, CA

Losing a tooth or several teeth can be difficult. Here is how to change that.

Video Transcript

Dental implants are titanium roots that are replaced within the jaw bones to resemble a tooth or a group of teeth. A screw is inserted into the gums and into the jaw bone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prestices including crowns dentures and bridges. Today’s treatments are so natural looking no one will know you had surgery. There is approximately a 95 percent success rate for all implants with modern advancements in dentistry some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.



The skilled doctors at our practice are Frank M. A. Vidjak, DDS, MSEd and Fanny Yacaman, DDS, MSEd, MS.



Doctors Bio Image - Dr.Frank Vidjak
Dr. Vidjak has been a prosthodontist for over two decades, with his private practice in Beverly Hills from 1989. A USC School of Dentistry graduate, he completed his specialty training in prosthodontics and an MS in Medical Education at USC where he also taught the School of Dentistry. He was its Clinical Director of the Advanced Prosthodontic Program and International Student Program too.



Doctors Bio Image - Dr. Fanny Yacaman
Dr. Yacaman received her DDS from the University Technologica of Mexico and served the clinical faculty in Endodontics at Unitec. She practiced Endodontics in Mexico City for over 10 years. She has an advanced specialty certificate in Advanced Microscopic Endodontics and Microsurgery and a Master of Science in Medical Education from the USC and has been a Clinical Faculty member at the UCLA School of Dentistry Department of Endodontics for more than 15 years. She specializes in Root Resorption treatment, having researched on External Root Resorption for over 15 years for a Master’s in Craniofacial Molecular Biology at USC’s Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology. She is one of four Endodontists in United States that can treat Root Resorption. She is a local and international lecturer in Endodontics and Microsurgery and has received many awards and has published articles in the area.