Dental Implants

With the amount of local anesthetic  that is administered during the implant placement surgery, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. In fact, most patients are able to return to work the very next day. However, you may feel a bit sore afterward, but this discomfort should only last a few days. In the meantime, you can take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed. It may also help to hold a cold compress to your cheek in ten-minute intervals.

In most cases, dental implants are not recommended for children because their facial muscles and bones have not quite finished developing. For this reason, most dentists will wait to place implants until a patient is at least 18 years old. On the bright side, there is no upper age limit for dental implants. Even patients in their nineties have used them to rebuild their smiles!

Dental implants are actually surprisingly easy to maintain. For the most part, simply care for them as you would care for your natural pearly whites. Brushing and flossing every day, attending dental checkups and cleanings on a regular basis, and wearing a mouthguard when participating in sports can all prolong the lifespan of your implants.

Dental implants have been used for half a century to replace missing teeth. They are made from incredibly safe and biocompatible materials. When placed properly by our dentist, they should not cause any health problems.

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. It provides a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, known as a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and durable support for the prosthetic tooth.

Generally, individuals with good overall health, adequate jawbone density, and healthy gums are candidates for dental implants. A thorough examination and evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon are necessary to determine if someone is a suitable candidate.

The dental implant process can take several months and involves multiple stages. After the initial implant placement, there is a healing period during which osseointegration occurs. Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, impressions are taken for the custom-made prosthetic. The final restoration is then attached. The overall timeline can vary but may range from a few months to a year or more.

Dental implants require regular oral hygiene practices similar to natural teeth. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. While implants cannot decay, the surrounding gums and supporting bone must be kept healthy to ensure the long-term success of the implant. The dentist or dental hygienist may provide specific instructions for caring for the implants based
on individual needs.