Skip to main content

Dental Implants Specialist

Shen Ling, DMD

Dentist & Periodontist located in South Bay, Torrance, CA & Diamond Bar, CA

Dental implants are a comfortable, natural-feeling alternative to dentures that look and work just like natural teeth. Dr. Ling uses the most advanced implant materials and techniques to help patients in Torrance and Diamond Bar, CA, feel more confident following the loss of one or more teeth.

Dental Implants Q&A

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are titanium metal posts that are securely implanted in the jaw bone where they act as an artificial tooth root to secure a prosthetic tooth or denture. Over time, the bone tissue fuses with the titanium post to form a very secure and stable attachment.

What should I expect during the implant procedure?

Most implant placements require three separate office visits. At the first visit, the implant is placed in the jaw bone. If the bone is too thin or inadequate to support the implant and the forces of biting and chewing, a bone grafting procedure may also be performed, using a small portion of bone from the patient or a tissue bank to augment and build up the existing bone so it can support the implant. Several weeks will pass before the second appointment to allow the post to fuse with the bone tissue. At the second appointment, a second piece called an abutment will be attached to the post. The abutment secures the artificial tooth to the post. An impression will be made and sent to the lab where the artificial tooth will be made. At the third appointment, the artificial tooth will be attached to the abutment and any final adjustments will be made.

What are the benefits of implants compared to dentures and bridges?

First, implants look, feel and work like natural teeth, so patients can feel more comfortable and more confident when eating, chewing and speaking. Because they are attached to the bone, there is no risk of slipping. And finally, by acting as a tooth root, posts stimulate the normal replacement of old bone tissue to reduce the risk of bone atrophy or thinning that can occur after tooth loss. Dentures rest on top of the gums and can provide no protection against atrophy.

Are implants hard to care for?

Dental implants can be cared for with regular brushing and flossing, just like your natural teeth, as well as twice-yearly dental visits to help prevent gum disease. 

Accepted Insurance

This is a short-list of just some of the plans we accept. We accept most Dental PPO. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed.

Aetna
Ameritas
Assurant Health
Blue Shield of California
Cigna
CompBenefits
Coventry Health Care
Delta Dental
Dental Benefit Providers
Dental Network of America, Inc. (DNoA)
DenteMax
First Dental Health
Guardian
Humana
MetLife
Principal Financial Group
Our Locations

Choose your preferred location