The implant process happens in phases and may take several weeks to months depending on your needs. Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown of what to expect with an implant-focused restoration.

Overall Timeline: 3 to 9 Months

The full implant process typically takes 3 to 9 months, depending on your bone health, healing speed, and whether grafting is needed.

• Healing time after each step is essential for long-term success.
• Some patients complete treatment faster if no bone graft is required; however, most times your provider will encourage bone grafting for longevity and stable healing.
• Others may need more time if healing takes longer or additional steps are added.
• Patients with underlying conditions may take longer to heal. This could include those who smoke, are undergoing cancer treatment, have diabetes, liver disease, or other underlying diseases. Your provider will ask you these questions at your initial consultation.
• Patients who want longevity from their implants are encouraged to eat a healthy balanced diet, avoid smoking, avoid recreational drugs, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• You will be provided with a list of vitamins and supplements that we recommend to aid in your healing process.

1. Consultation and Planning

• Your dentist will review your dental history and create a custom treatment plan, especially if you are considering dental implants for seniors.
• X-rays, a CBCT, or a 3D panoramic scan will assess bone strength, density, condition, and spacing.
• You’ll discuss treatment goals, cost, and next steps.
• If you’re a good candidate, the plan may begin right away.

2. Tooth Removal (If Needed)

• If a damaged tooth is still in place, it must be removed before an implant is placed.
• Most extractions heal within 1–2 weeks.
• In some cases, implants can be placed the same day.
• Your dentist will advise on the right timing for you.

3. Bone Graft (If Needed)

• Many dentists will recommend adding bone grafting material to the socket after a tooth is extracted. This helps preserve the socket and surrounding bone.
• Bone graft is placed to preserve bone density and extend the life of your implants.
• A bone graft may also be added if your jaw isn’t strong enough to hold the implant.
• Healing from bone grafting usually takes 3–6 months, depending on healing time.
• This step ensures your implant has long-term support.
• Not all patients need this; it depends on bone density.

4. Implant Placement

• The implant placement procedure starts like most dental procedures. The patient is made comfortable and the area is numbed.
• These surgical procedures are available with or without sedation. Your sedation options include:
  • Inhaled Sedation (Nitrous Oxide)
  • Oral Sedation (a series of small pills)
  • IV Sedation
• Once ready, and the patient is fully numbed, the surgery will begin.
• The implant placement is fairly quick and involves a titanium post that is placed into the jawbone, under the gumline.
• Most people say the procedure feels like a long filling and is pain-free.
• A healing cap may be placed to protect the implant, or the implant post may be sutured over for healing.
• Healing begins immediately after placement as the titanium post fuses with your natural bone.

5. Healing Phase – Osseointegration

• Your jawbone will fuse with the implant in a process called osseointegration.
• This typically takes 3–6 months to fully stabilize the implant.
• You may receive a temporary tooth or overdenture while the site heals.
• Your dentist will monitor healing progress with routine follow-ups and rechecks.

6. Abutment Placement

• An abutment is a small connector that sits above the gumline and holds the crown, partial, or denture.
• This is placed after the implant fully heals and fuses to the bone.
• Gums may need a couple of weeks to adjust to the abutment and the prosthetic attachment.
• This is the final connection piece that prepares your mouth for the final restoration prosthetic.

7. Final Crown, Partial, or Denture

• The final step is placing a custom crown, partial prosthetic, or full prosthetic (denture/over-denture) that looks and feels like your natural teeth.
• If you are getting a crown, your crown will be matched in color and shape to your other teeth.
• If you are getting a prosthetic full or partial denture, it can be any color, shape, and size you would like. If you bring in an old photo, we can match your original smile.
• This final crown or prosthetic restores full function and completes your smile.
• You’ll leave with a permanent solution that can last decades.

Aftercare & Maintenance

• Just like natural teeth, dental implants need daily care and regular checkups.
• Brush and floss every day to keep gums healthy.
• Use soft tools like water flossers or implant-safe brushes.
• Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams in accordance with your office’s implant warranty.
• Always follow the complete guidelines of your dental office to ensure that you are properly maintaining your implants for longevity.

FAQ

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients feel only mild soreness. Most take Tylenol for any discomfort after the procedures. The procedure itself is done with local topical anesthesia and the option of inhaled, oral, and sometimes IV sedation.

Do I need to take off work for the surgery?

You may want to rest for 1–2 days, but recovery is usually quick. Most of our patients report that they went back to work the next day and had only mild soreness. Most patients do not show any physical signs of even having a dental procedure done. There is typically little to no swelling, bruising, or any other visual physical symptoms the next day.

Are dental implants permanent?

With proper care, they can last over 20 years or even a lifetime.

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, two of the most common options are dental implants and dentures. While both offer a solution for tooth loss, dental implants have become the preferred choice for many due to their numerous benefits. In this blog, we will explore the advantages of dental implants over dentures and why they might be the better option for restoring your smile and oral health.

1. Superior Comfort and Stability

One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is their comfort and stability. Unlike dentures, which can shift and cause discomfort, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone. This eliminates the worry of slippage while eating or speaking. The stability provided by dental implants ensures a more natural feel and allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without concern.

2. Improved Chewing and Speech

Dentures can sometimes make it difficult to chew certain foods or speak clearly. Dental implants, on the other hand, function just like natural teeth. With implants, you can chew food comfortably, and your speech remains clear and unaffected. This is because the implants fuse with your jawbone, providing the same level of stability as your natural teeth.

3. Long-Lasting Solution

While dentures may need adjustments, relining, or even replacement over time, dental implants offer a long-lasting and durable solution. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last a lifetime. This makes them a more cost-effective option in the long run compared to dentures that may require frequent upkeep.

4. Preservation of Jawbone Health

One of the most critical benefits of dental implants is their ability to preserve the jawbone. When you lose a tooth, the underlying bone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants help maintain bone density by stimulating the jawbone, preventing bone loss. Dentures, however, do not offer this benefit, which can lead to bone shrinkage and facial sagging over time.

5. Natural Appearance and Feel

Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless appearance. Dentures, while functional, often have a more artificial look. Dental implants provide a more aesthetic and natural-looking smile, boosting your self-confidence and overall satisfaction.

6. No Adhesives or Removal

With dentures, adhesives are often required to keep them in place, which can be messy and inconvenient. Dental implants are a permanent fixture in your mouth, eliminating the need for any adhesives. There’s also no need to remove them at night for cleaning, unlike dentures, which require regular removal and soaking.

7. Better Oral Health

Unlike dentures, which may trap food particles and bacteria, dental implants integrate naturally with your gums and jawbone. This makes it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene, reducing the risk of gum disease or other oral health issues. Implants do not negatively impact neighboring teeth, unlike certain types of dentures or bridges.

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Conclusion

While dental implants and dentures replace missing teeth, dental implants provide superior comfort, durability, and long-term benefits. From preserving jawbone health to offering a more natural appearance, implants are an excellent solution for restoring function and aesthetics. If you are considering tooth replacement options, consult your dentist to determine if dental implants are the right choice.

Introduction

• Quick response is crucial during a dental emergency. Learn the steps to manage common dental emergencies and protect your oral health.

Common Dental Emergencies

• Toothache Relief Tips: Identify the cause and use over-the-counter pain relievers until you can see a dentist.
  
• Chipped or Broken Tooth Care: Save any broken pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and visit your dentist immediately.
  
• Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, keep it in a milk container and get to the dentist within 30 minutes.
  
• Lost Filling or Crown: Use dental cement or sugarless gum to temporarily seal the gap and see your dentist as soon as possible.
  
• Abscessed Tooth: Rinse your mouth with salt water to ease pain and draw out pus. Seek emergency dental care to prevent the infection from spreading.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Assess and Act: Determine the severity of the emergency and take quick action.
  
• Control Bleeding: Use gauze to stop bleeding. Apply gentle pressure and replace gauze as needed.
  
• Pain Management: Use over-the-counter pain relievers and apply a cold compress to alleviate pain and swelling.
  
• Tooth Preservation: If a tooth is knocked out, preserve it properly for potential re-implantation.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Identify Emergencies: Severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or knocked-out teeth require immediate attention.
  
• Contact Your Dentist: Have your dentist’s emergency contact information readily available.
  
• What to Expect: An emergency dental visit may involve immediate pain relief, infection control, and temporary or permanent repair work.

Preventive Measures

• Safety Gear: Wear mouthguards during sports and avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pencils.
  
• Regular Checkups: Visit your dentist biannually to catch and treat potential issues early.
  
• Daily Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to maintain strong teeth and gums and reduce the risk of emergencies.

Preparing for Dental Emergencies

• First Aid Kit: Keep a dental first aid kit with essentials like gauze, dental cement, and pain relievers.
  
• Emergency Contacts: Save your dentist’s contact details and the location of the nearest emergency dental clinic.
  
• Family Education: Ensure everyone in your household knows the basic steps to handle a dental emergency.

Conclusion

• Quick and appropriate action can save teeth and prevent further complications. Stay prepared and maintain regular dental visits to minimize risks. For more tips and advice, subscribe to our blog or schedule an appointment with our expert dental team today.

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue that affects millions of people. If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, you might be dealing with sensitive teeth. Understanding the causes and available treatments can help you manage this condition and maintain your oral health.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth, called dentin, becomes exposed. This can happen due to various factors, making your teeth more susceptible to external stimuli.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth Decay and Cavities

Description: Bacterial infections that create holes in the teeth.
Impact: Exposes the dentin, leading to sensitivity.

Gum Recession

Description: Gums pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root.
Impact: Roots are not protected by enamel and can be very sensitive.

Enamel Erosion

Description: Loss of tooth enamel due to acidic foods, drinks, or acid reflux.
Impact: Exposed dentin increases sensitivity.

Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)

Description: Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep.
Impact: Wears down enamel, exposing dentin and causing sensitivity.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

Description: Physical damage to the teeth.
Impact: This can expose the dentin or even the tooth pulp, leading to sharp pain and sensitivity.

Dental Procedures

Description: Treatments like fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening.
Impact: Temporary sensitivity that usually resolves on its own.

Effective Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity

Desensitizing Toothpaste

How It Works: Contains compounds that help block pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve.
Usage: Regular use can reduce sensitivity over time.

Fluoride Treatment

How It Works: Strengthens tooth enamel and reduces sensitivity.
Application: Available in professional treatments at your dentist’s office or in over-the-counter products.

Dental Bonding or Sealants

How It Works: Applies a protective layer over exposed dentin.
Benefits: Reduces sensitivity and protects against further enamel loss.

Gum Grafts

How It Works: Surgical procedure to cover exposed roots with gum tissue.
Benefits: Reduces sensitivity and protects against gum recession.

Root Canal Therapy

How It Works: Removes the affected nerve and pulp from the tooth.
When to Consider: For severe sensitivity due to deep decay or infection.

Avoiding Trigger Foods and Habits

Dietary Changes

Reduce intake of acidic, sugary, and very hot or cold foods.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Address habits like tooth grinding with mouthguards.

Preventive Measures

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Brushing and Flossing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and checkups to monitor and address sensitivity.

Use a Mouthguard

For Bruxism: Prevent enamel wear by using a custom-fitted mouthguard at night.

Watch Your Diet

• Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Reduce consumption of citrus fruits, sodas, and wine.
• Rinse After Eating: Neutralize acids by rinsing your mouth with water after meals.

Conclusion

Tooth sensitivity can be managed effectively with the right approach. By understanding the causes and exploring various treatments, you can alleviate discomfort and protect your teeth. For persistent or severe sensitivity, consult your dentist to identify the underlying cause and receive tailored treatment recommendations. Keep your smile healthy and pain-free by maintaining good oral hygiene and making informed dietary choices.

For more tips on dental care and to schedule an appointment, visit our website or contact us today.