A Guide to Dental Implants
A Popular Option for Tooth Replacement
Are you missing one or more teeth and looking for a solution? Distinctive Dental implants may be the answer you're looking for! Dental implants are an effective option for replacing missing teeth but they may not be suitable for everyone. This blog post will explore what makes a good potential candidate for dental implants here at Distinctive Dental Implants with Dr. April.
Available healthy bone: Dental implants require a strong and healthy jawbone. The jawbone is the foundation for the implant and it needs to have enough strength to support the implant and withstand chewing forces. If you have experienced/are experiencing bone loss due to tooth extraction, gum disease (periodontal disease) or other factors, you may need a bone graft or a sinus lift to increase your available bone before getting dental implants. Bone quality can be assessed with a 3D xray called a CBCT which is a part of our implant planning process.
Good Oral Health: Good oral health is key for a successful dental implant. You should have healthy gums free from inflammation. Prior to receiving dental implants, Dr. April may require you to undergo thorough dental cleanings at your general dental office to ensure that your oral health is in great condition. A healthy mouth increases the success of dental implants.
Overall Health: Certain health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, chronic illness and immune system disorders may affect the healing process. It's important to discuss your medical history and all your medications with Dr. April to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants..
Commitment to Oral Health: Dental implants require ongoing care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. You should be committed to brushing and flossing, as well as visiting your regular dentist for check-ups and cleanings every 6 months. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Age: Age is not a determining factor for dental implant candidacy, but bone development plays a huge role. We typically do not recommend dental implants for children whose bones are still growing. If someone was is missing teeth due to it being genetically missing we recommend waiting until after 20 years old to place implants for replacement.
Expectations and Budget: Candidates for dental implants should have realistic expectations about the outcome and the cost of the procedure. Dental implants are a long-term investment and the entire process can take several months to a year from start to finish. It's important to have a thorough consultation with Dr. April and her treatment plan coordinator to understand the treatment process, expected results, and associated costs.
How should I prepare for a dental implant?
Here are some tips on how to prepare for a dental implant:
Consultation with Dr. April: The first step in preparing for a dental implant is to schedule a consultation with Dr. April, HERE! (will lead to online booking) During this consultation, Dr. April will examine your oral health, review your medical history, and take a CBCT scan to assess the condition of your bone and surrounding teeth. This information will help us determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants and can then develop a personalized treatment plan for you.
Understand your Treatment Process: Dr. April will explain the entire dental implant treatment process. These steps include dental implant placement surgery, healing period, and placement of the final restoration.
Pre-Operative Instructions: Dr. April will provide you with specific pre-op instructions to follow at home before the dental implant surgery here at Distinctive Dental Implants. These instructions will include guidelines on premedication requirements, medications to avoid, and other preparations to ensure a smooth surgery.
Discuss Anesthesia and Moderate IV Sedation Options: You may require nitrous oxide inhalation or Moderate IV Sedation during the surgery. Dr. April will discuss these options with you to fully understand the risks and benefits associated with each.
Financial Planning: Dental implant procedures are an investment to your oral health, and it's important to consider the financial aspects of the treatment. Explore your payment options, including insurance coverage, financing through CareCredit, or receiving a 5% discount for paying cash.
Prepare Emotionally: Dental implant procedures can be a significant step in the right direction in improving your oral health and quality of life! It's normal to feel anxious or nervous before any dental procedure. Take the time to prepare by educating yourself about your procedure and discussing with Dr. April about any concerns or questions.
What happens during dental implant surgery?
Dental implant surgery is a complex and precise surgical procedure. This involves the placement of a dental implant into the bone to serve as a foundation for a final restoration to replace your missing teeth. If you're considering dental implants, it's essential to understand what happens during the dental implant surgery to feel prepared and informed during the surgical procedure. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect during the dental implant surgery process:
Moderate IV Sedation or Nitrous Oxide Inhalation: Before the dental implant surgery, you will receive anesthesia or Moderate IV Sedation to ensure comfort during your procedure. The type of anesthesia or Moderate IV Sedation used will depend on your case and Dr. April’s recommendation.
Dental Implant Placement: Once you are comfortably sedated and numb, Dr. April will make an incision in your gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone. She will then drill a small hole into the bone to create a space for the dental implant. The dental implant, which is typically made of titanium, is then carefully placed into the drilled hole and left to heal for 12 weeks.
Post-Operative Care: After the dental implant surgery, Dr. April will provide you with post-op care instructions, including guidelines on dietary restrictions, oral hygiene, and any prescribed medications. It's essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure healing and successful integration of the dental implant(s).
What happens after dental implant placement?
Congratulations! You've successfully undergone dental implant placement surgery, and are on your way to enjoying a restored smile. Understanding the post-implant placement process will help you prepare for a smooth recovery. Here's what typically happens after dental implant placement:
Healing and Recovery: After dental implant placement, it's important to allow time for the implant to integrate with the bone. This can take several weeks to months, depending on your healing ability and the location of the implant. During this time, it's essential to avoid certain foods, avoid smoking, and maintain good oral hygiene. You may also experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort around the dental implant site, which are normal and can be managed.
Follow-up Appointments: Dr. April will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. X-rays and other imaging may be done throughout the healing time to assess the implant's stability. Dr. April will also check the condition of the surrounding gums and make any necessary adjustments to the healing abutment or temporary crown if needed.
Dental Crown Placement: Once you are fully healed Dr. April will take digital impressions of your teeth to create a restoration that will match your natural teeth. Once the dental crown is ready it will be attached to the abutment (the connecting piece between the dental implant and dental crown), completing the dental implant process!
Enjoying the Benefits of Dental Implants: Once the dental implant and restoration are fully integrated and in place, you can start enjoying the benefits of your new smile! Dental implants are designed to function and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. You can enjoy improved chewing ability, restored aesthetics, and enhanced overall oral health.
How long does it take to recover from dental implant surgery?
Full Recovery: The full recovery timeline for dental implant surgery can vary depending on factors such as the number of dental implants being placed, the location of the dental implants, and individual healing abilities. On average, it may take about three to six months for a single tooth implant to fully integrate with the bone and for the final restoration to be placed. However, this timeline can vary and Dr. April will provide you with specific instructions based on your unique case.
How long does it take to recover from dental implant surgery?
Full Recovery: The full recovery timeline for dental implant surgery can vary depending on factors such as the number of dental implants being placed, the location of the dental implants, and individual healing abilities. On average, it may take about three to six months for a single tooth implant to fully integrate with the bone and for the final restoration to be placed. However, this timeline can vary and Dr. April will provide you with specific instructions based on your unique case.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are known for their durability and longevity making them a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. But how long do most dental implants actually last? Understanding the lifespan of dental implants can help you make an informed decision when considering this new tooth-replacement option. Here's what you need to know:
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime like natural teeth.
Book a Dental Implant consultation with Dr. April to restore your confidence!
Booking a consultation online with Dr. April is a convenient and smart way to take the first steps toward restoring your smile and confidence with dental implants. It allows you to save time by choosing a convenient appointment that works for you and your schedule.
So why wait? Book your dental implant consultation HERE! (will lead to online booking) with Dr. April online today and take the first step towards achieving a healthy, beautiful smile!
-Your Distinctive Dental Implant team