Dental Implants in Long Beach, CA: A Permanent, Natural-Looking Way to Replace Missing Teeth
A missing tooth affects how you chew, how you speak, and how you feel about your smile. A dental implant replaces the whole tooth, root and all, so it looks, feels, and works like a natural one. At Salem Dentistry in Long Beach, Dr. Roxana Salem, DDS, plans, places, and restores dental implants herself, so your entire treatment happens in one office with one dentist.
Call 562-435-8339 or book online
Why patients choose Salem Dentistry for dental implants
- One dentist from start to finish. You see Dr. Salem at every visit, from your first consultation to your final crown.
- More than 20 years of dental experience.
- Advanced training. Dr. Salem completed the Hiossen implant residency and the Comprehensive Esthetic & Restorative Residency at the Esthetic Professionals Dental Educational Center.
- 3D imaging in our office. A 3D scan shows your bone, nerves, and sinuses in detail, so your implant is planned precisely.
- Extraction, bone graft, implant, and crown in one place, with no running between offices.
- Natural-looking, metal-free crowns made of zirconia or E.max and matched to your teeth.
- Comfort comes first. We numb the area completely, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available if you’re anxious.
- Care in three languages: English, German, and Farsi.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. As the area heals, the bone grows around the implant and holds it firmly, creating a strong foundation.
Once healing is complete, a custom crown is attached to the implant to restore the look and function of the tooth. When several teeth in a row are missing, two or more implants can support a bridge.
Implant treatments we offer
- Single tooth implants. One implant and one crown replace one missing tooth, without touching the teeth next to it.
- Implant-supported bridges. Two or more implants hold a bridge that replaces several missing teeth in a row.
Advantages of dental implants
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Provide strong, stable support for chewing
- Help preserve the jawbone after tooth loss
- Help maintain your natural facial shape
- Stay securely in place without slipping
- Leave the neighboring teeth untouched
- Can last for decades with proper care
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Many adults with one or more missing teeth are good candidates. The most important factors are:
- Good overall health
- Healthy gums
- Enough jawbone to hold the implant
If you have lost bone, a bone graft can often make implant treatment possible. If you have gum disease, Dr. Salem will treat your gums first. Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes slow healing, so she’ll talk with you about those as well.
Implants may also be an option if you’d like to replace a bridge or a partial denture with something more stable.
What to expect
- Consultation and 3D scan. Dr. Salem examines your mouth, takes a 3D scan in our office, and reviews your health history. She explains your options, the timeline, and the cost before anything begins.
- Preparing the site. If a damaged tooth needs to be removed or a bone graft is needed, that is done first.
- Placing the implant. With the area fully numb, Dr. Salem places the implant in the jawbone. Most patients say it is easier than they expected.
- Healing. Over the next few months, the bone bonds with the implant. If the tooth is in the front, ask about a temporary tooth so you’re not left with a gap.
- Your new tooth. Dr. Salem takes a digital scan and attaches your custom crown or bridge to the implant.
Caring for your implant
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, just as you do for your natural teeth
- Clean carefully around the gumline, where the implant meets the gum
- Don’t smoke, since smoking is the leading cause of implant problems
- Keep up with regular exams and cleanings
An implant can’t get a cavity, but the gums around it can still become infected, so good home care matters.
Questions patients ask
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The area is completely numb during the procedure, so you’ll feel pressure but should not feel pain. Soreness for a few days afterward is normal and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does the whole process take?
Usually a few months from start to finish. The implant needs time to bond with the bone before the final crown is placed. If you need an extraction or bone graft first, it takes longer. Dr. Salem will give you a timeline at your consultation.
How long do dental implants last?
With good care, the implant itself can last for decades. The crown on top may need to be replaced after many years of wear, like any crown.
Implant or bridge: which is better?
Both are good options. An implant stands on its own, leaves the neighboring teeth untouched, and helps preserve the jawbone. A bridge is usually faster and needs no surgery, but it relies on the teeth next to the gap. Dr. Salem offers both and will go over the pros, cons, and costs for your situation.
What if I don’t have enough bone?
A bone graft can often rebuild the area so an implant can be placed. Your 3D scan shows exactly how much bone you have.
Am I too old for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit. Your overall health and the condition of your gums and bone matter far more than your age.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost depends on how many implants you need and whether you need an extraction or bone graft. You’ll receive a clear written treatment plan and cost at your consultation.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Some plans cover part of implant treatment, and coverage varies widely. We accept all PPO dental plans and Medi-Cal Dental, and we do not accept HMO plans. Call us and we’ll check your benefits for you.
Schedule an implant consultation
Call Salem Dentistry at 562-435-8339 or book online to schedule your implant consultation. We welcome new patients.