Changes that happen to us as we get older, an illness, or an accident can lead to tooth loss. While there are options like dentures, people prefer to want something more stable. At Mai Dentistry, we offer dental implants that help patients recover the functionality of their lost teeth and achieve a more natural-looking smile and feel.
What Are Reasons to Get Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures, bridges, or partials because they feel like your natural teeth. In addition, the feeling of permanency offered by dental implants often helps people’s confidence.
Other reasons that patients consider dental implants as an option include:
- Having one or more missing teeth
- Having issues talking because of their missing teeth
- Having a previous bad experience with dentures and bridges
- Having no other dental problems like tooth decay or periodontitis
- Having enough healthy bone to support dental implants
- Having a gag reflex (cannot wear removable prosthesis)
The cost of implants can vary depending on the condition of a patient’s teeth, and supporting bone.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
At Mai Dentistry, we start by providing you with a comprehensive evaluation. That way, we can determine whether you are a good candidate to receive implants. The process typically includes:
- Reviewing your medical and dental history
- Taking a full-mouth series of radiographs
- CT scans of areas targeted for a dental implant
- Intra-oral photos
Mai Dentistry uses state-of-the-art dental software that aids the dentist in planning the direct placement of any dental implants. Once we decide that a patient is eligible for a dental implant, we move on to the following steps, which include:
- Taking an impression of any areas designated for a dental implant
- Sending the impression to our professional lab to fabricate a splint device to guide implant placement during surgery
- Preparing the implant space for insertion of a titanium post
- Performing bone or tissue grafts to support the implant as needed
- The placement of a temporary tooth over the post/ implant if the conditions permit
- Placing the permanent tooth over the dental implant post 3-6 months after the initial surgery
Mai Dentistry provides several sedation options for patients with dental anxiety to help them get through each procedure.
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
You may experience some swelling in your face and gums after surgery, along with some light bleeding. Dr. Mai may recommend you take pain medication to deal with the discomfort. You’ll likely have to stick with a diet of soft foods as you heal. You must follow post-surgery instructions to the letter to avoid complications.
Make An Appointment Today
Contact Mai Dentistry today for a consultation if you think dental implants might be a great option to help with your dental issues.
