What to Expect: From Consultation to Recovery for Dental Implants in Glendale

Deciding to replace a missing tooth is a significant step toward restoring your health, confidence, and quality of life. Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for permanent tooth replacement, offering a solution that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth. However, the process can seem complex and intimidating. Understanding each step, from your first visit to your final restoration, can transform anxiety into confidence.At Infinite Dental Wellness in Glendale, our goal is to demystify the dental implant journey. We believe in empowering our patients with clear, easy-to-understand information. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what to expect when you choose to restore your smile with dental implants at our local Glendale practice. We’ll cover everything from the initial consultation and planning to the surgery itself and the final steps of completing your beautiful new smile.

Why Glendale Patients Choose Infinite Dental Wellness for Dental Implants

When it comes to a procedure as important as dental implant surgery, choosing the right team is everything. Patients from Glendale, La Crescenta, La Cañada, and Montrose trust Infinite Dental Wellness because we combine advanced skill with a genuinely caring, patient-first approach. We aren’t just treating a tooth; we are caring for you as a whole person. Our practice is built on a foundation of trust, comfort, and exceptional results.

A modern, comfort-focused dental implant center

Your peace of mind is our top priority. From the moment you walk into our Glendale office, you will be greeted by a friendly team dedicated to making you feel at ease. Our modern dental office is designed to be a calm and relaxing environment. We understand that dental anxiety is real, and we have built our practice around gentle dentistry principles. From our welcoming atmosphere to our focus on minimally invasive techniques, every detail is centered on your comfort. This makes us a preferred choice for patients seeking a positive and stress-free experience with dental implants in Glendale.

Meet our Glendale implant specialists and staff

The heart of our practice is our team. Dr. Leon Kiraj and Dr. Liana Muradyan are not only highly skilled implant dentists but also compassionate partners in your oral health journey. As graduates of the prestigious Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every procedure. They founded Infinite Dental Wellness with a vision of providing total body wellness through comprehensive, state-of-the-art dental care. Our entire staff is trained to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the thoughtful attention you deserve. When you choose us as your implant dentist in Glendale, CA, you are choosing a team that is personally invested in your smile.

How our advanced imaging and technology improve accuracy

Precision is the key to successful dental implant outcomes. We utilize advanced dental imaging technology, including on-site digital CT scans, to create a detailed, three-dimensional map of your jaw. This technology allows us to assess your bone density, identify the exact location of nerves and sinuses, and plan the ideal placement for your implant with surgical accuracy. By using this state-of-the-art equipment, we minimize risks, improve predictability, and ensure your implant is positioned for optimal function and long-term stability. This commitment to advanced technology means a safer, more efficient, and more successful tooth replacement experience for our Glendale patients.

Step 1 — Your Initial Dental Implant Consultation

Your journey begins with a conversation. The initial dental implant consultation is a crucial first step where we get to know you, understand your goals, and determine if implants are the right solution for your needs. This is your opportunity to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the entire process without any pressure.

Comprehensive oral exam and digital imaging (CT or 3D scan)

During your consultation at our Glendale office, we will conduct a thorough oral examination. We will assess the health of your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. The most important part of this visit is the advanced digital imaging. We use a CT scan for dental implants, which provides a detailed 3D view of your jawbone. This scan is painless and quick, but it gives us an incredible amount of information. It helps us evaluate the height and width of your bone, ensuring there is enough healthy bone structure to support an implant. This detailed implant evaluation near me helps us create a plan that is perfectly tailored to your unique anatomy.

Personalized treatment plan and cost estimate

Once we have all the necessary information from your exam and scans, we will create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will outline every step of your dental implant journey, from any preparatory procedures you might need (like a bone graft) to the final placement of your crown. We believe in complete transparency, so we will also provide you with a detailed cost estimate. Our team will break down the fees for the surgery, the abutment, and the crown, so there are no surprises. We will also discuss payment options and financing to ensure you can achieve the healthy smile you deserve in a way that fits your budget.

Discussing sedation and comfort options

We know that the thought of surgery can cause dental implant anxiety. At Infinite Dental Wellness, your comfort is paramount. During your consultation, we will discuss our sedation dentistry options in Glendale. We offer various levels of sedation to help you relax and feel completely at ease during your procedure. Whether you need mild nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or a deeper form of sedation, we will create a plan that ensures you have a comfortable, stress-free, and painless dental implant experience. We will answer all your questions about sedation to help you make an informed choice.

Step 2 — Planning Your Implant Surgery

With a clear plan in place, the next phase is detailed preparation. This stage is where our technical expertise and advanced technology come together to design a surgical plan that is precise, predictable, and customized entirely for you. Careful planning is what sets the stage for a smooth procedure and successful, long-lasting results.

Mapping your jawbone for precise implant placement

Using the 3D dental scan data from your consultation, we begin the virtual surgery process. We use specialized software to map your jawbone with incredible detail. This jawbone mapping allows us to determine the optimal angle, depth, and position for your dental implant. We can navigate around sensitive structures like nerves and the sinus cavity, ensuring the implant is placed in the densest part of the bone for maximum stability. This meticulous implant planning in Glendale is like creating a perfect blueprint before we ever begin the actual procedure, which greatly increases the success rate.

Reviewing timeline, healing phases, and insurance details

We want you to be fully informed about what to expect. In this step, we will review the complete timeline with you. This includes the date of your implant surgery, the expected healing period (osseointegration), and the appointments needed for placing your final crown. We will explain each phase of the process, including the time required for your jawbone to fuse with the implant. Our administrative team will also help you navigate your benefits. We accept all PPO insurance plans and will work with you to maximize your coverage for dental implants in Glendale. While we do not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal, we offer various financing solutions.

What to do before your implant appointment

Preparation is simple but important. We will provide you with a clear set of pre-operative instructions. These may include guidelines on eating and drinking before your procedure, especially if you have opted for sedation. We may also provide prescriptions for antibiotics or a special mouth rinse to use before your appointment to create a sterile oral environment. You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after the surgery, as you will be unable to drive if you receive sedation. Following these instructions helps ensure your appointment day goes as smoothly as possible.

Step 3 — The Day of Your Dental Implant Surgery

The day you have been planning for has arrived. Thanks to meticulous preparation and our focus on your comfort, the dental implant procedure itself is often much quicker and more comfortable than patients expect. Our team will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you are safe, relaxed, and well-cared-for throughout the appointment.

What happens during the procedure

First, we will ensure you are completely comfortable and numb. We will administer the agreed-upon local anesthesia and sedation. Dr. Kiraj or Dr. Muradyan will then make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the jawbone. Following the precise surgical guide created during the planning phase, a small channel is prepared in the bone. The titanium implant post is then gently placed into this channel. In some cases, a healing cap is placed over the implant to protect it. The entire dental implant procedure in Glendale is performed with gentle, practiced movements to minimize tissue disruption and promote faster healing.

How long dental implant surgery takes

The duration of the surgery depends on the number of implants being placed and the complexity of your case. For a single dental implant, the procedure typically takes about one to two hours from start to finish. If multiple implants are being placed, or if a bone graft is needed at the same time, the appointment may be longer. We also offer same-day dental implant options in Glendale for qualifying candidates, where a temporary tooth can be placed on the implant right after surgery. We will give you a clear time estimate during your planning phase.

Comfort measures and anesthesia used in our Glendale office

Your comfort is our unwavering focus. We use a profound local anesthetic to ensure the surgical site is completely numb, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel some slight pressure, but not discomfort. In addition to local anesthesia, we offer sedation dentistry to help you relax. Our goal is to provide a painless dental implant experience. We will monitor you closely throughout the surgery to ensure you remain comfortable and safe. Our patients are often surprised at how manageable the entire experience is.

Step 4 — Recovery and Healing After Your Dental Implant

After your surgery, your body begins the important process of healing. The recovery period is when the magic of osseointegration happens—the process where your jawbone fuses directly with the titanium implant, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth. Proper aftercare is essential for a successful outcome.

Normal healing timeline and what to expect

The initial healing phase for the gum tissue takes about one to two weeks. However, the full dental implant healing in Glendale, where the bone integrates with the implant, takes longer—typically three to six months. During the first few days, it is normal to experience some minor swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which is easily managed. You will need to stick to a soft food diet for a short period to avoid putting pressure on the implant site. We will provide you with a detailed recovery timeline and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Tips for reducing swelling and discomfort

Following our post-surgery dental implant care instructions is the best way to ensure a smooth recovery. To manage swelling, we recommend applying a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off during the first 24-48 hours. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually very effective for managing any discomfort. It is crucial to keep your mouth clean by rinsing gently with a prescribed or saltwater solution, but avoid brushing the surgical site directly for the first few days. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated will also support your body’s natural healing process.

When to call your dentist during recovery

We are here for you throughout your recovery. While minor swelling and discomfort are normal, you should call our Glendale office if you experience severe or increasing pain that is not relieved by medication, persistent bleeding, or swelling that worsens after the third day. A fever or signs of infection are also reasons to contact us immediately. Open communication is key, and we encourage you to call with any questions or concerns during your implant recovery timeline. Your peace of mind is important to us.

Step 5 — The Final Crown: Completing Your Smile

After the implant has fully integrated with your jawbone, it is time for the final and most exciting step: placing your beautiful new tooth. This is where your smile transformation is completed. The dental crown is custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.

How we match your implant crown to your natural teeth

Creating a natural-looking restoration is an art as much as a science. We take great care in designing your implant crown. We will take a digital impression of your implant and the surrounding teeth. This allows our lab to fabricate a crown that perfectly matches the size, shape, and shade of your adjacent teeth. Our goal is for your new dental crown in Glendale to be indistinguishable from your natural teeth. We consider every detail, from the color variation to the surface texture, to ensure a truly lifelike result.

Fitting, adjustments, and bite alignment

When your custom crown is ready, you will return to our office for the fitting. We will attach a small connector piece, called an abutment, to the implant post. The crown is then secured to the abutment. We will check the fit meticulously, ensuring the contacts with neighboring teeth are perfect and there are no gaps at the gumline. Most importantly, we will check your bite alignment to make sure the permanent tooth replacement functions comfortably and evenly with your other teeth. We will make any necessary micro-adjustments to guarantee a perfect fit.

Long-term care and maintenance tips

Caring for your new dental implant is just as easy as caring for your natural teeth. While the implant itself cannot get a cavity, the surrounding gums still require excellent hygiene to stay healthy. You should brush twice a day, floss daily (using special floss to clean around the implant), and continue with your regular dental cleanings and check-ups at our Glendale office. With proper care, your dental restoration can last a lifetime, providing you with a permanent, confident, and healthy smile.

Common Patient Concerns About Dental Implants

It is completely normal to have questions and concerns before undergoing any dental procedure. We believe in addressing these worries head-on with honest and reassuring answers. Here are some of the most common questions we hear from our patients in Glendale.

“Is dental implant surgery painful?”

This is the number one concern for most patients. The answer is no; the procedure itself is not painful. We use effective local anesthesia to ensure the area is completely numb. With our options for sedation dentistry, many patients feel so relaxed they have little to no memory of the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and comparable to a simple tooth extraction. Most patients find that over-the-counter pain medication is more than enough to manage it, making pain-free dental implants a reality for our patients.

“How long before I can eat normally again?”

The dental implant recovery time for your diet is relatively short. You will need to stick to a soft food diet for the first week or two to protect the surgical site. This includes things like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups. After your follow-up appointment, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods. Once the implant has fully healed and the final crown is in place, you will be able to eat all your favorite foods without restriction. An implant functions just like a natural tooth, allowing you to chew steak, bite into an apple, and enjoy everything you did before.

“Are dental implants safe for older adults?”

Yes, dental implants are a safe and highly effective solution for older adults. Age itself is not a limiting factor. The primary consideration is your overall health and the density of your jawbone. Many of our most satisfied implant patients are seniors who are thrilled to be free from the hassles of dentures or bridges. Implants can dramatically improve nutrition, speech, and quality of life for patients of any age. We conduct a thorough health history review to ensure you are a good candidate.

“How do I know if I’m a good candidate?”

The best way to know if you are a candidate for implants is to schedule a consultation. In general, a good candidate is in good overall health, has healthy gums, and has sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. Even if you have experienced some bone loss, you may still be a candidate with a preliminary procedure like a bone graft. We will assess your individual situation during your implant evaluation at our Glendale office.

Why Local Expertise Matters: Getting Implants in Glendale vs. Chains

Choosing a local, private dental practice for your implants offers significant advantages over large, corporate dental chains. The level of personalized care and continuity you receive can make a world of difference in your experience and final outcome.

Personal connection and continuity of care

At a local practice like Infinite Dental Wellness, you are not just a number. You will see the same dentists, Dr. Kiraj and Dr. Muradyan, and the same caring team at every visit. We build a personal connection with our patients, getting to know you, your family, and your long-term health goals. This continuity of care ensures that every decision is made with a deep understanding of your history and preferences. A trusted Glendale family dentist provides a level of comfort and confidence that is hard to find elsewhere.

On-site imaging and follow-up care all in one place

We provide comprehensive dental care under one roof. Our Glendale office is equipped with on-site 3D imaging, so you do not need to travel to a separate facility for your scans. From your initial consultation to your final crown placement and all your follow-up appointments, every step of your journey happens right here. This convenience simplifies the process and ensures seamless communication and coordination between every phase of your treatment.

A trusted Glendale dentist who knows your smile

As your local dental implant specialist in Glendale, we are invested in our community and in your long-term oral health. Dr. Kiraj and Dr. Muradyan have built a reputation for excellence and trust. They don’t just place an implant; they design a solution that integrates perfectly with your entire smile. They understand the nuances of your bite and your aesthetic goals. This personal investment from a dentist who knows you and your smile leads to better, more satisfying results.

Schedule Your Glendale Dental Implant Consultation Today

At Infinite Dental Wellness in Glendale, we combine advanced dental technology, gentle care, and years of implant experience to restore smiles with precision and confidence. If you are ready to take the next step toward a permanent, healthy solution for missing teeth, we invite you to learn more. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you discover if dental implants are right for you.Call (818) 541-1110 or book online to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a permanent, healthy smile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants at Infinite Dental Wellness

How long do dental implants last?With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. The implant post itself is made of biocompatible titanium and fuses with your bone. The crown attached to it may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear, but the implant foundation is permanent.What’s the success rate of dental implants?The dental implant success rate is very high, typically around 95-98%. Success depends on factors like the patient’s overall health, oral hygiene, and the skill of the implant dentist. Our meticulous planning with 3D imaging and expert surgical technique helps ensure the highest possible success for our patients in Glendale.Can smokers get dental implants?While smoking is not an absolute disqualification, it does increase the risk of implant complications and failure. Smoking can impair healing and affect the integration of the implant with the jawbone. We strongly advise patients to quit or significantly reduce smoking before and after the procedure to improve their chances of long-term success. We can discuss this in detail during your consultation.Does insurance cover dental implants?Coverage for dental implants varies widely between insurance plans. Many PPO plans now offer some level of coverage. Our team is experienced in working with insurance for dental implants and will help you understand and maximize your benefits. We accept all PPO insurance plans and also offer financing options for affordable implants in Glendale to help with any out-of-pocket costs.