Our goal is simple: Fantastic surgical results, remarkable experiences, and promote your oral health for life. We deliver this promise through communication, transparency, education, our full support, and personalized service.
Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He received his dental degree from the University of PennsylvaniaSchool of Dental Medicine in 1990.
Following a one-year internship at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, he pursued surgical training at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC, where he received his certificate in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Located in downtown Bethesda, MD, our office provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for optimal patient comfort and experience. Our blue wing is for patient reception and routine oral surgery procedures and our purple wing is dedicated to dental implant and tissue regeneration procedures. Both wings are equipped with treatment rooms, recovery rooms, and latest dental and surgical technology and equipment.
After I completed my surgical training in 1995, I worked as an associate for several oral surgery practices. The surgeons I worked for were exceptionally skilled doctors, but I quickly sensed that something was missing. Personal care and empathy for patients seemed lacking, and patients satisfaction suffered.
Tooth loss, especially in the upper front area of your mouth also known as the smile or aesthetic zone, compromises your smile. People with missing teeth or aesthetically unpleasing teeth often cover their mouth when talking or smiling. It can also affect ones speaking.
Following teeth loss, the remaining teeth have to carry the load during your chewing. The excessive forces can result in chipping, fractures, or potential gum disease with loss of bone. Once the bite has been compromised by tooth loss, it becomes increasingly worse as the other teeth suffer such damage and begin to shift.
Following tooth loss, the supporting jaw bone undergoes significant remodeling and shrinkage. This will result in defects that are unsightly, difficult to clean, and difficult to correct later. This can easily be prevented by replacing the missing teeth with implants early.
Tooth loss causes shifting or moving of adjacent and opposing teeth. The back teeth begin to tilt forward and the opposing teeth start shifting up or down. All of this results in malocclusion (poor bite), increase in teeth fractures and increased bone loss (periodontal disease). Once teeth have shifted, correction is difficult and costly. It is best to replace missing teeth before such changes occur.
Loss of many teeth in the back results in bite collapse. The jaw then over closes putting more pressure on the front teeth causing them to flare out. Facial wrinkles develop around the mouth and the lips start to pouch outward (This is the classic tooth-less aging person look). Some people also begin to develop facial pain and TMJ problems. These are serious permanent changes which can be easily prevented by replacing missing teeth in a timely fashion.
Having a healthy mouth and nice smile greatly contributes to ones sense of self-esteem and comfort in social settings. We have met many patients whose lives greatly suffered from oral health negligence. Overall quality of life is enhanced with replacement of teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.
By replacing the entire tooth, including the root, it is possible to replicate the function of natural teeth, with a strong, stable foundation that allows comfortable biting and chewing. In addition, nothing in the mouth looks or feels artificial.
Implants preserve the integrity of facial structures. By preventing the bone resorption that would normally occur with the loss of teeth, the facial structures remain intact. This is particularly important when all of the teeth are missing, as the lower one-third of the face collapses if implants are not placed to preserve the bone.
Your smile is improved when replacement teeth look more like natural teeth. Even when only one tooth is missing, long term aesthetics are usually much better with an implant-supported replacement tooth than with a traditional tooth-supported bridge. This is particularly important in the front of your mouth, where preventing a visible bone defect is critical for natural appearance.
With dental implants, adjacent teeth are not compromised to replace missing teeth. Tooth replacement with traditional tooth-supported bridges requires grinding down the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth/teeth, so that the bridge can be cemented onto them. This tooth structure can never be replaced and the long-term health of these teeth is compromised. Partial dentures have clasps that hook onto adjacent teeth, putting pressure on them as the partial rocks back and forth. Eventually these teeth can loosen and come out as a result of this pressure. Replacing missing teeth with implant supported crowns/bridges does not involve the adjacent natural teeth, so they are not compromised or damaged.
Overall quality of life is enhanced with replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. With implant supported replacement teeth, the appearance of the smile is more natural, and the teeth function more like natural teeth. The result is increased comfort and confidence when smiling, speaking, and eating. If dentures and partials are replaced with implant supported teeth, the overall enhancement in quality of life is even more significant, with an ability to eat all types of foods, elimination of messy adhesives, and improved speech, comfort and appearance.
It is much easier to care for an implant supported crown, which can be cleaned like a natural tooth. In comparison, a tooth-supported bridge requires the use of a floss threader for proper cleaning. It is also more convenient to clean a full set of implant supported replacement teeth than a traditional denture.
Since implants preserve bone, preventing deterioration of the facial structures, appearance is improved. Collapse of the lower one-third of the face caused by complete tooth loss can be visually corrected and the remaining bone preserved. The appearance of wrinkles around the mouth caused by posterior bite collapse, or complete facial structure collapse is virtually eliminated.
Many of the people who now enjoy the benefits of implant supported replacement teeth state that their self esteem and self confidence have been restored as a result of improved appearance, function, comfort, and health.
Wearing an upper denture can prevent someone from really tasting food, as the roof of the mouth is covered. With implant supported replacement teeth, it is not necessary to cover the roof of the mouth, so it is possible to enjoy the taste of foods.
Dental implants are made of completely biologically compatible bone-friendly titanium material, that naturally heals and integrates with the surrounding tissues. Because titanium is accepted so well by the human body, it is also used for orthopedic implants, such as hip and knee replacements.
Dental implants are very safe and predictable, and complications can be avoided when performed by a trained, skillful, and experienced oral surgeon using specialized instruments and techniques. Dr. Kazemi specializes in dental implant placement and has performed it successfully on thousands of patients. Our office is designed and equipped for dental implant procedures, and the team assisting Dr. Kazemi is trained specifically for them. Methodical, exacting, and detailed protocols are followed strictly to make sure every patient is safe and has a pleasant experience.
Dental implants should not be done until the patient has completed their growth, typically age 16 to 17 in females and 18 to 21 in males. Some older patients fear their jaw bone is too weak. The fact is dental implants are equally successful and have an excellent prognosis in any adult patient. No one is too old for dental implants, and for many, improvement in chewing and aesthetics adds confidence and quality to their lives. Implants have been done successfully in patients over 85 years old.
Rejection does not occur with dental implants. Our overall success rate for dental implants is 99% with almost 50 years of clinical research to back them up. Because implants are made of biologically compatible bone-friendly titanium material, they naturally heal and integrate with the surrounding tissues.
The jaw bone undergoes significant shrinkage following the third month after tooth loss and can continue up to 12 months. If the extraction site was not grafted at the time, there might be an inadequate amount of bone for implant placement. Bone grafting is a highly successful and predictable treatment option to augment missing bone and build a proper foundation for the necessary implants.
Studies show an increased risk of complications if patients smoke during the initial phases of implant healing. However, once healed and integrated, there is good long term success. It is advised to stop smoking for 2-3 months following dental implant placement for optimal results.
Extractions, grafting, and implants are quite safe and predictable and complications can be avoided when the procedure is performed by a trained, skillful, and experienced oral surgeon using specialized instruments and techniques. Dr. Kazemi specializes in these procedures and has performed them successfully on thousands of patients. Our office is designed and equipped for such surgical procedures, and the team assisting Dr. Kazemi are trained specifically for them. Methodical, exacting, and detailed protocols are followed strictly to make sure every patient is safe and has a remarkable experience.
Dental implants are made of biologically compatible bone-friendly titanium material that naturally heals and integrates with the surrounding tissues. Because titanium is accepted so well by the human body, it is also used for orthopedic implants, such as hip and knee replacements.
Teeth replacement with dental implants requires the collaborative efforts of a surgeon and a restorative dentist and dental laboratory. Dental implant surgery is a highly skilled discipline, best performed by oral surgeons who are well trained and perform this procedure daily. Dr. Kazemi specializes in dental implant placement and has performed it successfully on thousands of patients. The prosthetic aspect (crown, bridge, etc.) is performed by your restorative dentist who may be a general dentist or a prosthodontist, a specialist trained in more complex aesthetic and reconstructive restorative dentistry.
Majority of dental implants used currently in dentistry are made of Titanium. Ceramic dental implants are also available as the newer non-metal form of implant. They are both available in many sizes and lengths depending on the location and quality of the site.
Most commonly and researched dental implants used currently are made of Titanium which is a bio-inert and bio-compatible material. It is accepted by the jaw bone and heals very predictably. Titanium implants have been in use for many years and are both safe and long-lasting. A newer type of dental implants made of Zirconia are also available. Zirconia dental implants, marketed as metal-free, are alternatives to Titanium implants, however there are no long term studies regarding their efficacy or success. We provide both types of dental implants, although over 99% are Titanium.
If you need dental implants to replace your missing teeth and for whatever reason do not want metal, you may consider ceramic dental implants as an alternative. Ceramic dental implants, specifically known as zirconium or zirconia dental implants, are one of the newer forms of dental implants in the market as an alternative to titanium dental implants.
Zirconia was discovered in 1789 by the German chemist M. H. Klaproth but rediscovered only in the last decades because of its unique properties. Zirconia is a very hard material and has great strength. Because of its high bio-compatibility, it is used in medicine (auditory, finger and hip prostheses) and dentistry (posts, crown and bridge restorations, implants, implant abutments). Zirconia has similar color to teeth and is bio-compatible making it an alternative material in dentistry. Zirconia dental implants were approved by FDA in 2007 and have very limited scientific studies in United States. They have been used mostly in Europe with short term studies.
The decision to use ceramic or titanium dental implants should be fully discussed between patient and surgeon. On one hand, many patients may request ceramic dental implants because of its metal-free properties. As we discussed, Zirconium implants are technically a metal. On the other hand, the surgeon must follow evidence-based dentistry to make proper recommendations for long term success and safety. The following facts should be considered in the decision process:
Digital work-up and computer-assisted implant dental implant planning allows safe and precise placement of dental implants. This in-turn eliminates complications associated with poor implant positioning and orientation. Using this approach, the entire surgical and restorative treatment plans are designed BEFORE any procedures are performed on patients. In-addition, patients can complete their treatment in less time and visits with great accuracy and remarkable results.
Successful and predictable replacement of your missing teeth with dental implants requires a carefully planned treatment plan coordinated by the oral surgeon and your restorative dentist. There are many factors that must be evaluated during the planning phase to make sure the results meet your expectations and provide you with long-term success.
Anxiety is not uncommon among people having dental implants or other types of oral surgery. This anxiety is mostly related to hearing others bad experiences with excessive pain, swelling, or complications. We resolve this in several ways. First, the use of IV sedation allows patients to nap during the surgery. This helps greatly to make them comfortable and reduce anxiety. Second, patients will be cared for by a group of friendly and professional staff members who take the time to personally connect with each patient and allay their fears and concerns. Third, the surgery is done conservatively, which minimizes or avoids swelling, pain, and complications.
The best way to manage anxiety and make sure you have the best possible experience is to opt for IV sedation. It is the recommended method and chosen by many patients. Dr. Kazemi is trained and licensed in administering office anesthesia. Its safety is attributed to continued monitoring techniques, the short acting nature of the medications, availability of emergency equipment, and, most importantly, proper training of the surgeon and the staff. Another option is local anesthesia, with or without nitrous oxide (laughing gas), but in that case, the patient is completely awake and fully aware of the procedure.
Level and duration of pain depends on the complexity of the surgery, technique, and patients tolerance. Most patients experience three to four days of elevated pain, commonly managed with pain medications such as Vicodin or Percocet. As pain gradually diminishes over the next two to three days, Ibuprofen (Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used. After seven to ten days, most patients no longer have pain and may stop their medications.
Any swelling related to surgery will maximize in 36 to 48 hours following procedure, and gradually taper over the next five to seven days. Ice helps to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours. If extractions were done in a conservative fashion, you may experience no swelling at all.
Upon arrival home, you may have water, juices, soups, shakes, puree, and very soft food. A soft diet is recommended up to five to seven days. No hard, crispy, or spicy should be eaten during this period. The general rule is if you have to chew, its probably too hard. After seven days, patients may gradually return to normal food.
Get plenty of rest on day of surgery. Some patients may feel well enough the following day to walk and go out. Thats all right, but take it easy. Avoid strenuous activities for the first two to three days. Refrain from sports, lifting, or doing anything that requires exertion. After three days, if patients feel more comfortable, they can walk, go for a gentle swim, or do very low-impact exercise., such as swimming or walking. Mild activities may cause some pain but not enough to disturb the surgery site or open the sutures.
Most patients return to work, school, or some normal activities one to two days after surgery. Most schedule their surgery on a Friday and are ready to return to wok or class by Monday. There is no problem with traveling or flying the following day, although its best to rest for a day or two. Of course there are always variations in overall response and recovery.
The cost of dental implants depends on the number of implants, bone grafting needs, and your choice of anesthesia. Following an examination and discussion of treatment recommendations, our financial coordinator will present the exact cost and payment options to make it possible. Our global fees include all of the following (no hidden costs):
We use only the most well known and researched implant companies in our office, including Zimmer, Biomet (3i), and Nobel. We do not use the lower quality and cheap dental implants, that are available in the market. These cheaper implants, which are often sold to general dentists, do not have adequate research and literature behind them and their composition and manufacturing process is unknown. We do not recommend the use of such implants as they are unpredictable and may be associated with an increased risk of failure, infection, fractures, and poor healing.
Dental implants and related bone grafting procedures are typically not covered by any insurance plans as they are considered elective and not medically necessary. If you have a plan with possible benefits we will be happy to submit a pre-authorization letter and form on your behalf. For this we will need to see you for examination and obtain an X-ray. Dental implants may be covered under medical insurance if teeth loss is related to a traumatic injury or pathology such as bony cysts. Contact your insurance company or call us for assistance.
We offer three- to 12-month (or longer) payment plans. A short application (via phone or website) is necessary, along with a credit check for approval. Once approved, you do not have to make any payments to our office. Instead, following your procedure or treatment, you will make payments directly to the third party company. This is a NO-INTEREST program. Speak to our financial coordinator for details or contact the companies below to obtain a line of credit. We offer these programs through the following companies:
Dr. Kazemi is a contributor to DentalXP, an online global educational site for dentists. He has also lectured for their annual symposium and contributes articles, educational videos, and articles to the site.
