Geach Dental

Replacement of Missing Teeth with Dental Implants

In this case study, we’ll explore the journey of a patient who faced a challenging dental issue—a large tumor in the lower jaw that resulted in the loss of many teeth during surgical removal. Our expert prosthodontist stepped in to address this problem by using dental implants to restore both function and aesthetics. 

We’ll also discuss the success rates and quality-of-life improvements associated with such reconstructions, highlighting how they compare to traditional removable dentures.

undefined

The Procedure

This patient presented to our practice after surgical removal of a tumor in the left side of his lower jaw. Because of the large size of the tumor, many teeth were sacrificed during the surgery. After reconstruction of the left side of the lower jaw  and bone grafting , 3 dental implants were placed. A permanent, 4-tooth dental implant bridge was designed to replace the missing teeth which allowed the patient to chew and properly function again.

undefined

Dental implants placed into grafted bone are a very successful treatment for missing teeth. Research shows success rates above 90%, even 10 years after placement of the implants. 

Studies also show that there is a significant increase in quality-of-life with dental implant reconstructions. Patients’ can more effectively chew, taste and feel the foods that they enjoy when compared to the limited function of removable dentures.

undefined

The bridge shown above is fixed in-place to the implants below the gum tissue. This implant bridge cannot be removed by the patient. A Prosthodontist with expertise in designing these types of restorations can remove the bridge. Since this bridge is different from natural teeth, the patient was instructed on how to properly clean underneath the bridge and around the implants. Routine, 6-month exams and cleanings are recommended to evaluate the implants and the implant bridge. Overall, a very good prognosis is predicted for this treatment.

undefined

Conclusion

The patient’s experience, as showcased in this  study, underscores the effectiveness of dental implant reconstruction in restoring normal dental function and improving the quality of life. It highlights a practical, effective solution for those facing similar challenges, illustrating the positive impact of dental implants and expert care.

With success rates exceeding 90% even a decade after implant placement, the longevity and benefits of this procedure are evident. The fixed implant bridge, while different from natural teeth, provides durability and convenience for the patient with proper care and maintenance.

In summary, the prognosis for this treatment is highly favorable. It reflects the expertise of our prosthodontist and the potential for patients to regain their oral health and well-being. 

Understanding the process of a smile makeover with dental implants, and knowing how to maintain your enhanced smile can help you make an informed decision about this transformative work that will enhance your life and help you feel confident for years. 

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to consider dental implants, the advanced knowledge and specialized expertise of our prosthodontic team at Geach Dental,located in Downtown Los Angeles and Laguna Niguel, Orange County, are here to help ensure you get the attractive and confident look you deserve. 

We ensure that every one of our patients receives the treatment they need in a comfortable environment. We’ll go the extra mile to make sure you understand your upcoming procedure as well as all of its risks and rewards. And we’ll spend as much time as you need talking to you to make sure we’re both on the same page and you are 100% comfortable with the plan we agree on.

To take the first step towards a radiant smile, simply call us today at (213) 622-3339 or click here to schedule a consultation. Your dental wellness is our top priority and your journey towards a healthier smile starts here!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meet Dr. Adam Geach, distinguished prosthodontics specialist and owner of Geach Dental. His dental education includes  Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the University of Connecticut, where he earned a D.M.D. and an M.D.Sc. in Prosthodontics, respectively. Dr. Geach holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Prosthodontics, underscoring his exceptional expertise in dental care. 

At his clinics in Los Angeles and Laguna Niguel, Dr. Geach offers a wide range of services, from cosmetic treatments to full-mouth reconstructions, all delivered with a focus on personalized patient care.Take the first step toward your ideal smile and improved oral health by clicking here.

Search for Blog Articles

Pinteresting Board
Share

Meet Dr. Adam Geach, distinguished prosthodontics specialist and owner of  Geach Dental. 

His dental education includes Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the University of Connecticut, where he earned a D.M.D. and an M.D.Sc. in Prosthodontics, respectively. Dr. Geach holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Prosthodontics, underscoring his exceptional expertise in dental care. At his clinics in Los Angeles and Laguna Niguel, Dr. Geach offers a wide range of services, from cosmetic treatments to full-mouth reconstructions, all delivered with a focus on personalized patient care.Take the first step toward your ideal smile and improved oral health by clicking here.

Related blog posts

Why a Prosthodontist Should Do Your Veneers

Porcelain veneers have become one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments in Southern California — especially in Los Angeles and Orange County, where esthetics, confidence, and image matter both personally and professionally. But not all veneer providers are created equal. For patients and referring dentists alike, selecting a prosthodontist — a specialist in esthetic and restorative dentistry — can make the difference between good results and truly exceptional ones. What Makes Veneers So Transformative? Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. They can correct a range of cosmetic concerns including discoloration, wear, gaps, misalignment, and irregular shape. Modern dental porcelain mimics the light-reflective qualities of natural enamel for the most lifelike result possible. But achieving a beautifully balanced smile is as much about art and precision as it is about materials. The Prosthodontic Advantage 1. Advanced Specialized Training A prosthodontist, like Dr. Adam Geach at Geach Dental, completes three additional years of specialized residency beyond dental school focused on esthetic, reconstructive and implant dentistry. This training includes advanced principles of occlusion, smile design, functional dynamics, and material science that general dentists may not receive in depth. For veneers, this means: 2. Personalized Smile Design and Digital Planning At Geach Dental, every veneer case begins with a comprehensive esthetic evaluation paired with advanced digital imaging. This allows the clinician and patient to preview proposed changes in shape, length, and proportion before any enamel is altered. This collaborative process ensures: 3. In-House Laboratory and Master Ceramist Collaboration One factor that sets Geach Dental apart is its in-house dental laboratory — meaning the ceramist who crafts veneers works directly with the prosthodontist every day. This team-based approach results in: The tight integration of design and fabrication allows for consistent, lifelike results that rival custom cosmetic work found in high-end esthetic markets. 4. Respect for Tooth Structure and Longevity While veneers can be minimally invasive, improper preparation by inexperienced providers can remove more enamel than necessary, compromising longevity. A prosthodontist’s expertise in conservative tooth preparation aims to preserve as much natural structure as possible while optimizing the bond strength and function of the restoration. This attention to detail is crucial in high-demand patients who expect durability in both function and appearance. 5. Functional Integration, Not Just Esthetics The greatest veneer cases are those that look beautiful and function seamlessly. Prosthodontists are trained to evaluate the entire masticatory system — including bite forces and jaw dynamics — so that veneers not only enhance appearance but perform predictably in daily use. What This Means for Los Angeles & Orange County Patients Whether you’re a professional seeking a refined smile for your career, an individual pursuing a personal esthetic goal, or a referring dentist seeking reliable cosmetic outcomes, opting for a prosthodontist for veneers offers advantages worth considering. In the Southern California context — a region known for its esthetic emphasis — achieving a smile that is both natural and enduring requires: Choosing the Right Provider Cosmetic dentistry is about more than “prettifying” teeth; it’s about creating balance between esthetics, health, function, and longevity. A Board Certified Prosthodontist like Dr. Geach combines the clinical expertise, artistic judgment, and advanced technology necessary to deliver world-class veneer results. If you’re considering veneers for a smile transformation, consulting a prosthodontist ensures a tailored approach anchored in experience and precision — especially in esthetically discerning communities like Los Angeles and Orange County. At Geach Dental in Downtown Los Angeles and Laguna Niguel, Orange County our team has extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry and veneers. If you are interested in enhancing your smile, we encourage you to contact Geach Dental at (213) 622-3339, or click to schedule a consultation. You deserve the best care.  Written by Adam Geach, DDS, MDSc – Prosthodontist at Geach Dental in Downtown Los Angeles and Orange County ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meet Dr. Adam Geach, distinguished prosthodontic specialist and owner of Geach Dental. His education includes Harvard School of Dental Medicine and The University of Connecticut, where he earned a DMD and MDSc in Prosthodontics, respectively. Dr. Geach holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Prosthodontics, underscoring his exceptional expertise in dental care.

Read Up

Prosthodontist vs. Cosmetic Dentist in Los Angeles & Orange County: What’s the Difference — and Why It Matters

If you’re considering enhancing your smile in Los Angeles or Orange County, you’ve likely seen practices advertising “cosmetic dentistry.” But what many esthetically driven patients don’t realize is that cosmetic dentist is not the same as prosthodontist. At Geach Dental, led by Adam J. Geach, patients receive care from a formally trained dental specialist whose expertise extends far beyond surface-level esthetics. Here’s what that means for your smile — and why it matters in image-conscious Southern California. What Is a Prosthodontist? A prosthodontist is a dental specialist recognized by the American Dental Association who completes: This postgraduate residency focuses on: In short, a prosthodontist is trained to design smiles that are both beautiful and biomechanically sound. For patients seeking Los Angeles porcelain veneers or a full smile transformation in Orange County, that advanced level of training makes a significant difference in long-term results. What Is a Cosmetic Dentist? “Cosmetic dentist” is a term used by general dentists who offer esthetic procedures such as: While many cosmetic dentists are talented, cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized ADA specialty. Any licensed dentist can market themselves as a cosmetic dentist after taking continuing education courses. That distinction is important — especially if your case involves more than minor aesthetic adjustments. Prosthodontist vs. Cosmetic Dentist: Key Differences 1. Depth of Training A prosthodontist completes thousands of additional clinical hours focused exclusively on restorative and esthetic rehabilitation. This includes advanced training in: For high-end prosthodontist veneers in OC, that level of expertise ensures veneers are not just beautiful — but structurally correct and long-lasting. 2. Function + Aesthetics (Not Just Appearance) In Southern California, appearance matters — but so does longevity. A prosthodontist evaluates: This ensures your smile makeover won’t create problems like fractures, chipping, TMJ discomfort, or premature wear down the road. At Geach Dental in Downtown Los Angeles, every veneer, implant, or crown is designed with full facial harmony and function in mind. 3. Expertise in Complex Cases Many patients seeking cosmetic improvements actually have underlying concerns such as: A prosthodontist is uniquely trained to manage these complex conditions while still delivering high-level esthetics. For professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, and public-facing individuals in LA and Orange County, that comprehensive approach is often the difference between a “nice smile” and a truly transformative result. Why Esthetically Driven Patients in LA & OC Choose a Prosthodontist In markets like Los Angeles and Orange County, patients expect: At Geach Dental, advanced smile design principles are combined with meticulous laboratory collaboration to deliver results that reflect both artistry and science. When investing in Los Angeles porcelain veneers or a comprehensive smile makeover, choosing a prosthodontist means choosing: ✔️ Advanced specialty training✔️ Complex restorative expertise✔️ Functional longevity✔️ Refined aesthetic precision So — Which Is Right for You? If you’re seeking simple whitening or minor bonding, a cosmetic dentist may meet your needs. But if you’re pursuing: Working with a prosthodontist in Los Angeles or Orange County ensures your investment is supported by the highest level of restorative expertise. Elevate Your Smile With Specialty-Level Care Your smile is one of your most powerful personal assets — especially in Southern California. Choosing a prosthodontist means choosing: If you are exploring prosthodontist veneers in OC or Los Angeles porcelain veneers, understanding this difference may be the most important first step. If you’re considering veneers for a smile transformation, consulting a prosthodontist ensures a tailored approach anchored in experience and precision — especially in esthetically discerning communities like Los Angeles and Orange County. At Geach Dental in Downtown Los Angeles and Laguna Niguel, Orange County our team has extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry and veneers. If you are interested in enhancing your smile, we encourage you to contact Geach Dental at (213) 622-3339, or click to schedule a consultation. You deserve the best care.  Written by Adam Geach, DDS, MDSc – Prosthodontist at Geach Dental in Downtown Los Angeles and Orange County ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meet Dr. Adam Geach, distinguished prosthodontic specialist and owner of Geach Dental. His education includes Harvard School of Dental Medicine and The University of Connecticut, where he earned a DMD and MDSc in Prosthodontics, respectively. Dr. Geach holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Prosthodontics, underscoring his exceptional expertise in dental care.

Read Up

Follow Our Newsletter To Stay Tuned

Sign up to receive exclusive guides & tips on health, fashion, travel, beauty and more!

Follow Our Newsletter To Stay Tuned

Sign up to receive exclusive guides & tips on health, fashion, travel, beauty and more!