Dental Implants in Irvine
A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth, not just the part you see. That is why it looks, feels, and works most like your own tooth.
At Barranca Canyon Dentistry, Dr. Shahram Shahriyarpour plans your implant with 3D imaging, places it, and restores it with an all-ceramic crown, all in our office. One dentist, one office, from your first scan to your final crown.
What a dental implant is
The implant: a small titanium post placed in the jawbone. Titanium is biocompatible, and bone bonds to it over a few months.
The abutment: a small titanium base (Ti-base) that sits directly on top of the implant. The crown is bonded to it.
The crown: the visible tooth, custom-made from all-ceramic materials to match your smile.
Why we use all-ceramic crowns
Our implant crowns are all-ceramic. Each crown is bonded to a small titanium base that sits directly on top of the implant, so nearly all of the tooth you see is ceramic and no metal shows. Ceramic lets light pass through much like natural enamel, so the tooth looks natural up close. This is especially important for front teeth.
Planned in 3D before surgery
Before placing an implant, we take a 3D cone-beam (CBCT) scan in our office. It shows the height and width of your bone and the location of nerves and sinuses. Dr. Shahriyarpour plans every implant digitally from start to finish, and every implant is placed using a custom surgical guide made from that plan. In many cases, your final crown is also digitally designed and fabricated from the same plan. Careful planning means a more predictable result and a more comfortable visit.
How treatment works
Consultation and 3D scan. We examine your teeth and gums, take a 3D scan, and talk through your options.
Digital planning and surgical guide. Dr. Shahriyarpour plans the implant position on the scan, and a custom surgical guide is made from the plan.
Implant placement. The implant is placed under local anesthesia, using the surgical guide.
Healing. Over about 3 to 4 months, the bone bonds to the implant. You won't be left with a gap: depending on your case, we provide a fixed or removable temporary tooth.
Your new tooth. We attach the abutment and your custom all-ceramic crown or bridge.
Ongoing care. Implants can't get cavities, but the gums around them still need brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings.
Replacing one tooth or several
A single implant replaces one missing tooth. When several teeth in a row are missing, two or more implants can support an all-ceramic implant bridge, so you don't need an implant for every tooth.
Who is a good candidate
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth can be evaluated for implants. Good candidates generally have:
healthy gums
enough bone to support the implant
good overall health
Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes slow healing and raise the risk of implant problems. People with well-controlled diabetes can be good candidates; we coordinate with your physician. If you need bone grafting first, we coordinate with a trusted specialist, then complete your implant treatment here.
Implants compared with other options
Dental implant: stands on its own, so neighboring teeth are not reshaped to support a traditional bridge. Helps preserve the jawbone where the tooth was lost.
Traditional bridge: uses the teeth on either side as anchors, which means reshaping those teeth.
Removable partial denture: the least invasive option, but it comes in and out and can feel less stable when chewing.
Frequently asked questions
How long do dental implants last?
With good home care and regular checkups, implants are a long-term solution. In a large review of studies, about 96% of implants were still in place after 10 years (Howe et al., Journal of Dentistry, 2019).
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Some people may have mild soreness for a few days, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does the whole process take?
Usually 3 to 4 months from placement to final crown, depending on how quickly your bone heals and whether any preparation is needed first.
How much does an implant cost?
It depends on how many teeth are being replaced, the condition of the bone, and the type of crown. We give you a clear written estimate after your consultation and 3D scan.
Are implants and crowns metal-free?
The implant and the small abutment base it connects to are titanium, which the body tolerates very well and bone bonds to. The crown bonded on top is all-ceramic, so no metal shows.
Schedule an implant consultation
Missing a tooth, wearing a partial you don't like, or told a tooth needs to come out? Call (949) 654-4654 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shahriyarpour.
Related: CEREC same-day crowns and digital dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.