Dental implants are a great way to replace missing and damaged teeth. But it is natural to have questions and getting implants is a big decision. Here are the most important points to remember before and after a dental implant procedure.
Things to remember before the dental implant procedure
Evaluation to decide if you are a candidate
At the initial visit, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth and oral structures. You will need X-rays, CT scans, dental impressions, etc to decide if your jaw bone is optimal in quality and quantity for the dental implant. Treatment is planned for the number and type of dental implant, need for teeth extractions, and bone grafting.
It is a painless procedure
The most important aspect what you need to know about dental implant procedure is that it is completely painless – thanks to the latest technology and pain management techniques. It will be done under local anaesthesia to numb your gums and part of the mouth.
Doctor’s training and experience is important
Implants placed by experienced dental surgeons, who are specialists and have additional training and perform this procedure regularly have a higher success rate. So, choose the right dentist.
Time required
Once the implant is placed inside the jawbone, it takes about 6 to 9 months for it to connect to the surrounding bone and heal. Thereafter the connection called ‘abutment’ and the final crown or denture is placed. The entire process, from initial evaluation to final restoration can take up to a year. Advanced dental clinics used the latest technology like digital implant planning to drastically reduce treatment times.
Things to remember after getting a dental implant
Post-placement discomfort
Some discomfort, pain swelling around gums for a few days after implant surgery is normal. Follow your dentist’s instructions such as eating soft foods, use ice packs to reduce swelling to speed up your recovery.
Visit your dentist regularly
To ensure your implants are healthy and there is no infection visit your dentist twice a year. Get professional dental cleaning to ensure good oral health and implant success.
Avoid smoking
Avoid smoking and tobacco use, as it interferes with healing, increases the risk of infection, and can lead to implant failure.
Maintain good oral hygiene
Maintain good oral hygiene which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, use of oral irrigation to clean underneath the crowns. Plaque formation around implants can lead to gum disease and compromise the implant leading to failure. With good care, your implants can last a lifetime.
Signature Smiles offers high quality yet affordable dental implant treatment. We have multiple options to suit your needs including all on 4 dental implants treatment and all on 6 dental implants treatment. If you have questions feel free to contact our office and schedule a consultation with our experienced implant specialists.