A dental implant is a popular restoration option among patients due to its natural feel, function, and appearance. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants. These are some questions to ask your dentist about dental implants in order to better understand how this treatment option can benefit you.
No one should have to live with missing teeth that cause oral health, functional, or cosmetic concerns. Fortunately, patients now have more options to restore their smile after tooth loss. Here are some questions to ask a dentist about dental implants and the treatment process.
It helps to start with a basic understanding of what dental implants are and what purpose they serve. This information helps patients make a better choice as to whether it is the most appropriate solution for them. Dental implants are a form of tooth replacement involving a titanium post (known as the implant) that is surgically placed into the jawbone to support a prosthesis, such as:
After the implant grafts to the bone, the dentist connects a structure — an abutment — to the implant and then attaches the chosen prosthesis. The benefit of the implant is that the materials do not decay in the mouth as regular dental bridges could. In addition, unlike dentures or fixed bridges, implants do not slip, make noise, or damage bone.
The dental implant process involves several steps and can take more than six months to complete fully. First, patients that have experienced bone loss in the jaw typically require a bone graft procedure. This procedure grafts natural bone (or synthetic material) to the area where the bone loss occurred, which allows for added support for each implant. The implant placement is next. This procedure requires minor surgery. Once the mouth heals and the implants go through osseointegration (fusion with the jawbone), a follow-up procedure is scheduled to place the abutment and the replacement teeth.
Dental implants are ideal for anyone with a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth who want a permanent and non-removable solution that looks, feels, and functions similarly to natural teeth. However, patients that choose dental implants over alternative solutions can expect a longer treatment process that involves a more invasive placement procedure. While serious complications are relatively rare, the patient must be willing and able to undergo a more extensive treatment process. Other prime candidates for dental implants include those who:
Due to the long implant process, recovery occurs in several steps that may require more than one healing stage. It often depends on the patient's overall health, how many implants the patient needs, and other factors. However, the general implant healing process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks.
Immediately following dental implant surgery, an individual should only consume soft foods and liquids, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smooth soups, and milkshakes. After three days, the patient can move to soft foods that require little to no chewing, such as macaroni and cheese, soft sandwiches, and scrambled eggs. Avoid crunchy or hard-to-chew foods like pizza, popcorn, burgers, and acidic or spicy foods for up to a week after dental implant surgery. Most patients can resume their regular diet after seven days.
Dental implants can last a lifetime, and most patients find that their implants last for more than 15 years. However, this refers to the titanium post. The replacement teeth (crown, bridge, or complete denture) may need a replacement every 10 to 15 years, depending on how well the patient takes care of them. To ensure both the implants and the prosthesis last for as long as possible, patients should brush and floss several times a day, limit foods and drinks that could contribute to gum disease, and visit the dentist for regular cleanings.
Our team helps patients through the dental implant process, from the consultation visit to providing aftercare services once treatment is complete. Contact our team today to schedule your first visit if you still have questions or would like to begin your dental implant journey.
Request an appointment here:https://www.mytotaldentistry.comor call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Marietta, OH.
Dental implants are an increasingly popular choice for individuals with missing or damaged teeth. They offer a variety of benefits over traditional dentures or bridges. However, they can also come with challenges, and not everyone will benefit from the procedure. This article will explore the pros and cons of dental implants to help you make…
Getting dental implants as a replacement for removable dentures can be a rewarding move. These restorations are stable and lasting. You can smile, laugh, eat, and speak without worrying that they will slip out of your mouth. Here are the benefits of getting dental implants over removable dentures.Dental implants are effective in restoring teeth. Unlike…
Dental implants are a popular option for people missing one or more teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an enticing choice for adults needing tooth replacement. Though this option offers many benefits that other teeth replacement options do not, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Let us…
Dental implants can bring back stability and aesthetic value to your mouth. Losing at least one tooth can affect your appearance. It can also affect the way you interact with other people. Getting implants is a big decision. That is why you need to know what the procedure entails. Here are the things you should…
For many patients, Invisalign® treatment is a good alternative to traditional braces. Treatment time is often shorter, and patients can maintain better oral hygiene during the process. This type of orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear aligners to straighten teeth. The patient wears the trays for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them for…
An effective and yet inconspicuous way to straighten the teeth, Invisalign® gives individuals the flexibility to enjoy a wide range of foods while undergoing the teeth straightening process. When compared to traditional braces that come with a long list of what can be eaten and what needs to be avoided, removable alignment trays bring more…