Introduction
Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement, making restoration of aesthetics, functionality, and confidence much easier.
With an over 95% success rate, they have established themselves as the gold standard in restorative dentistry.
In Taylor, TX, we offer our clinic, where we provide comprehensive implant procedures performed by our expert cosmetic dentists.
However, the success of any dental procedure begins not only during the procedure, but also with proper aftercare. In this guide, we will provide you with guidelines and tips on how to care for your new implants and what to expect after the dental implant procedure.
Dental Implants in Taylor, TX: What You Need To Know?
Before we discuss the aftercare in detail, it is essential to understand the process of dental implants in Taylor, TX, and the steps involved in the procedure.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant can be defined as a synthetic tooth root made out of titanium. It is placed into your jawbone. They mimic the natural structure of your tooth and usually comprise a titanium post, a crown, and an abutment.
The titanium post fuses with your jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. At the same time, the abutment serves as the connector between the implant and the crown. Lastly, the crown is a custom-made tooth that matches the appearance of your existing natural tooth, so it looks and functions as one.
Why You Should Consider Implants Over Other Options?
Here are some popular reasons why you should consider implants-
Durable and Natural Appearance
They are made of titanium, a strong and durable metal alloy. These implants stimulate bone growth and last for decades. Over the past 20 years, the success rate has been consistently high, with no reported complications.
Additionally, the crown attached over the implant provides a perfect natural finish. It is made following the shape and size of your existing set of natural teeth. Hence, they blend in seamlessly, making your smile complete.
Bone Health Retention
Losing a tooth often results in the degeneration of the jawbone, leading to bone loss. This affects your smile and facial structure. Implants prevent any bone loss in your edentulous areas.
Enhanced Functionality
Since dentures act like your natural teeth, they restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile normally.
Procedure of Dental Implants
In this segment, we have provided a step-by-step guide to the dental implant procedure-
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Examination
Your dental implant process will begin with an initial consultation on your first visit. During this visit, your cosmetic dentist in Taylor, TX, or oral surgeon will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and check your oral health.
They will take X-rays, 3D scans, and assess your jawbone’s health. Once all of this is done, they will evaluate whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Step 2: Additional Procedures (If Required)
In some cases, before the dental implant procedure can be performed, additional procedures such as tooth extraction or bone grafting may need to be completed.
- Tooth Extraction
If the tooth you wish to replace with implants is still present but damaged or decayed, it must be extracted first. After extraction, your dentist will allow the area to heal for a few weeks before proceeding with the implant procedure.
- Bone Grafting
Some patients lack sufficient healthy jawbone to support a dental implant. If you are one of them, your dentist will suggest a bone grafting procedure before the implant. This involves adding synthetic or natural bone to your jaw. After the grafting, you should wait one to two months for the graft to integrate with your natural bone, ensuring a successful implant procedure.
Step 3: Dental Implant Placement Surgery
Once your jawbone is ready, your dentist will initiate the dental implant procedure. At first, a local anesthetic will be administered, after which your dentist in Taylor, TX will make a small incision on your gum to expose your jawbone.
A tiny hole is drilled in the jawbone, and the titanium post is inserted, and the gum is stitched back into place. This implant will function as your artificial root for the new tooth.
Once complete, the healing process begins, and the implant starts to fuse with your jawbone, a process known as osseointegration.
Step 4: Healing and Osseointegration
Osseointegration is a critical step of the implant procedure. Here, your jawbone will gradually grow around the artificial implant, thereby securing it firmly in place. The healing and osseointegration process takes at least three to six months. Meanwhile, a temporary crown or denture is fitted to maintain the functionality and appearance.
Step 5: Abutment Placement
After successful osseointegration, it’s time to perform the second minor procedure, where a small connector, known as an abutment, is attached. This links the implant post to the crown. Your gum is then allowed to heal around the abutment.
Step 6: Crown Placement
Once the gums have healed and the abutment is secure, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and bite to create a customized crown. As we mentioned, our expert lab technicians will design it in a manner that matches your surrounding teeth. After it is ready, the crown is screwed or cemented onto the abutment.
Oral Hygiene Tips to Follow After Dental Implant Treatment
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is non-negotiable. However, you must be gentle in the early days of your recovery. Here are some tips to follow:
- Avoid brushing or applying any force around the surgical site for the first 48 hours. After 2-3 days, begin light brushing near the area, but without applying any direct pressure. Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste.
- For the first 24 hours, you will strictly avoid rinsing your mouth. After that, use warm salt water to rinse your mouth gently 3-4 times daily.
Dietary Restrictions
- In the initial stages of recovery, you can eat soft, warm, or cold foods. This includes mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and Greek yogurt, as well as warm soups, soft pasta, applesauce, and oatmeal. You can also have some ice cream sometime later, as it will help prevent bleeding and reduce swelling.
- You must strictly avoid any crunchy or hard food items, such as chips, nuts, and raw vegetables. Additionally, you should avoid sticky candies and spicy foods.
Lastly, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol entirely as it restricts blood flow and delays healing. It also increases the risk of implant failure by up to 20%.
Takeaway
- Proper aftercare is the foundation upon which the success of your dental implant stands.
- By following the guidelines your dentist provides, such as maintaining good hygiene and a balanced diet, you can enjoy a radiant smile and long-lasting oral health.
- Get the best dental implants treatment with our experts at Taylor Dental and Braces today!
