Are You Ready to Give Dental Implants a Try?
If you have missing teeth, then dental implants might be the right choice for you. These implants look beautiful and natural to give you a seamless smile and restored function. At our Salinas, CA, dental practice, we offer patients the chance to improve their smiles. This dental treatment provides you with brand-new teeth that allow you to eat and speak properly.
Are Implants Right for Me?
Some patients are not sure if dental implants are right for them. When you come to Dental Concepts, our team of talented dentists examine your mouth to see if you are a candidate for the procedure. We assess your oral health to check the condition of your teeth and gums. If you have gum disease, we will need to address it before proceeding with implants.
If you are suffering from cavities, our dentists remove the decay first. You should have proper jawbone density to secure the implants. If your bone has atrophied, then we might need to perform a graft surgery before we place the implants.
Additionally, we also want to ensure that you are in good overall health. If you have certain diseases like diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, you may not be a candidate for implants. Our goal is to ensure that you are safe throughout the procedure and that your body heals appropriately after the surgery.
How are Implants Installed?
Patients receive their implants over several appointments. Once we determine that implants are a good fit during a consultation, we will take x-rays and 3-D images of your teeth and jaw. During the first procedure, the dentist makes tiny incisions in the gums to access the bone. The implants are small titanium posts that are installed into the jawbone to act as the tooth roots. Your bone fuses with the post over the next four to six months to ensure stability in a process known as osseointegration.
In some cases, your dentist provides you with a temporary restoration. Once osseointegration is complete, the doctor places an abutment on top of the implant. The abutment serves as a connector to hold the crown. It typically takes about two weeks for your gums to heal after your surgeon places the abutment. Your crown is customized to match the rest of the natural teeth.
What Happens After Surgery?
After surgery, you can expect some discomfort. If your doctor prescribes pain medication, you should take it according to the dentist’s instructions. You can also expect some degree of swelling of the face and gums. There might be some slight bleeding. You might notice some bruising of the gums and skin. Patients should contact their doctor if the pain worsens or if they have any unexpected symptoms.
How Do I Maintain my Implants?
To keep your implants looking and performing their best, you need to follow your doctor’s orders. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. Keep a good oral hygiene regimen, including brushing and flossing daily. To keep teeth white and dazzling, avoid foods and drinks that can cause stains.
Schedule a Consultation
When you are ready to learn more about dental implants, contact Dental Concepts to schedule a consultation. Please call us at 831-443-3633 to find out how you can restore your smile.