Getting dental implants can be an intimidating thought for some, however, making the decision to get dental implants can be a truly life changing event. Not only will you experience a huge boost in confidence, you’ll also benefit from the health impacts of once again having a strong, healthy mouth.
Below are the steps involved in getting dental implants:
When you meet with the dentists at Vestal Dental Associates we will go to great lengths to answer all questions you have regarding your procedure. We have before-and-after photos, computer imaging and we can even give you a tour of the technology we’ve invested in to ensure your dental implant procedure is as easy, fast, and pain-free as possible.
If your initial consultation results in you and your dentist moving forward with your dental implant procedure, we will make an appointment with you for your initial examination. During this visit we will thoroughly examine your mouth, take x-rays and 3D images, discuss the various implant options available to you, and develop a plan of action for your implant surgery.
At your next appointment, your dentist will place the pillar, or dental implant, into your jawbone where you’re missing your tooth. Most patients find this experience much easier and pain-free than they anticipated and many can return to work as normal the next day. Your dentist will use a local anesthesia to make you comfortable. Post-implant surgery normally involves the same minor discomfort as any dental surgery. This can include swelling, minor bleeding and minor bruising, but most patients are able to find comfort with over-the-counter pain relievers.
This big word is the process of your implant and jawbone growing together as you heal. This important process creates a strong bond resulting in a long-lasting foundation for your new tooth. While the osseointegration process can take up to a few months, you are able to continue on with your normal daily activities and is a pain-free process. The first few weeks your dentist will put you on a soft food diet to ensure your dental implant heals properly.
The abutment is simply a small connector that bonds your implant with your bone and is placed just below the gumline. In some cases, your dentist may be able to place your abutment during your appointment when your dental implant is placed.
After your gums are fully healed, your dentist will make custom impressions of your mouth and teeth to accurately match your new tooth to the rest of your mouth. This crown, implant supported bridge, or denture, will be attached to the abutment. With the amazing same-day CEREC® crown technology, your dentist can form and place your crown in the same day – saving you many appointments and downtime.
Now that you know the process involved in getting a dental implant placed, call or fill out our online appointment request form to schedule your dental implant consultation. We promise you the results will be life changing.