Dental implants are some of the best replacement treatments for missing teeth. Candidates for dental implants should begin by visiting a dental office for an exam. The dentist will begin by reviewing your medical history, including your medical conditions and medications.
When the dentist has all the information about your medical history, they will perform a comprehensive dental exam. They may take x-rays, models, and digital images of your mouth. Next, the dentist will prepare a customized treatment plan considering the number of missing teeth, your medical conditions, medications, jawbone condition, overall health, and much more.
The tooth implant process involves surgical intervention. The specific phases of your treatment will depend on your specific condition. For instance, some patients require tooth extraction and bone grafting procedures. For a patient who does not need a tooth extraction and bone grafting, the procedure typically involves:
● Placement of the implant
Before placing a dental implant, the oral surgeon or periodontist will numb the area. After the implant is placed, the surgeon or periodontist will place a healing cap over the implant to heal properly. Osseointegration is the process through which an implant fuses with the underlying jawbone. The process takes about 3-6 months and helps create a solid base for the implant.
● Fitting the crown
After the gum tissues heal, you'll be ready for the crown and abutment fitting procedure. The dentist will take impressions to make your crown. The customized crown is cemented or screwed on the implant abutment. This means you can't remove the crown when sleeping or cleaning. It would help if you treated it like your natural tooth.
If you don't have sufficient jawbone for the implant to attach strongly, the dentist in West Covina might recommend further treatments such as bone grafting.
A bone graft repairs and rebuilds weak or soft bone, providing a solid base for the implant. After the graft surgery, it takes about 3-6 months for the bone to grow to support an implant.
After the surgery, it's normal to experience some discomfort such as swelling, bruising, pain, and minor bleeding. Your surgeon will provide antibiotics and pain medication to relieve the discomfort. You may also want to avoid certain foods. Hard, crunchy, hot, and sticky items can disturb the surgical site, causing pain and bleeding.
Other tips for caring for your implant include:
● Avoid tobacco as it can increase your risk of infection and implant failure.
● Schedule frequent exams with your dentist.
● Use a cold compress to manage pain and swelling.
● Practice excellent oral hygiene.
● Use the right dental products.
● Avoid damaging habits such as poking the area.
For more information about treatment and cosmetic dental implants in Covina, contact Jeffrey L Cohen, DDS.
