Losing a tooth can impact everything from the shape of your face to your bite and chewing mechanics to the integrity of your entire dentition.
Replacing lost teeth with dental implants is an increasingly popular way to retain that integrity, preserving your bite and smile for a lifetime.
Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Anyone who has lost a tooth — or teeth — and is in good general health with healthy jawbones is a good candidate for dental implants. It is important that the prospective patient not have untreated dental decay or periodontal disease. There is also sometimes an issue with bone loss and density in older patients.
Discuss the procedure thoroughly with your dentist to determine if implants are a good treatment for your situation.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Implants are screw-like posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone. They provide structural support for artificial teeth that are then screwed onto the post. The treatment is done in stages, as the bone needs to heal closely around the metal posts. Depending on how many implants are being installed, this procedure can be simple or a major surgery requiring multiple sessions, general anesthesia, and significant aftercare.
What Is Discussed During My Dental Consultation for Implants?
Before embarking on the journey towards dental implants, you may expect at least one, and likely more several, consultations with your cosmetic dentist and oral surgeon.
In addition to undergoing a comprehensive pre-op medical health survey and dental history, the various stages of the implant procedure will be explained in detail. A timeline for the various stages of the treatment will be discussed as well as a plan for post-operative recovery. Finally, the patient will be given an opportunity to express any concerns or worries they might have.
If you are interested in dental implants, call Rancho Dental at (951) 699-4746 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
What to Expect After Dental Implants
What Is My Recovery After Dental Implants?
Recovery from each stage of the implant procedure may take several weeks. Discomfort may be managed with pain medication and antibiotics. Expect some swelling, which will subside over time. Each individual is different so discuss expectations with your dentist. They will tell you when it is safe to resume eating solid food and other regular activities.
What Results Can I Expect With My Dental Implants?
Dental implants generally yield excellent, long-lasting results. But it can be a bit of an effort to achieve in some instances. However, most patients will agree that the joy of carefree and complete dentition — and the great smile that goes with it — is well worth that effort.
You will once again be able to eat all foods without worry.
How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?
Caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth:
- Brush regularly with a low abrasive toothpaste (twice a day)
- Floss daily
- Avoid smoking
- Get teeth professionally cleaned twice a year (your hygienist will use special tools that are designed for use on implants)
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
There is a wide range when it comes to pricing dental implants. Dental insurance may cover some or most of this cost, but it’s important to have a frank discussion with your dental team about costs and financing.
What Other Dental Services Do We Offer?
Rancho Dental offers a wide range of cosmetic, preventative, and restorative dental services, including teeth whitening, orthodontics, and custom sports mouthguard fittings.
Contact us for a complimentary consultation to learn about all we offer here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Will the dental implant procedure hurt?
There will be some discomfort associated with bone grafts and the implantation of metal posts into your jaw. But it will be manageable with the pain medication that your cosmetic dentist prescribes. Ice can also be applied to reduce swelling.
Do I have to avoid certain foods with dental implants?
Once you are healed, care should still be taken with very hard foods such as candy or ice. These can break and chip implanted teeth just as they do natural ones.
How can I contact Rancho Dental for my cosmetic dentistry needs?
If you are in the Temecula, California, area and curious to know more about the benefits of dental implants and restorative dentistry, give the professional team at Rancho Dental a call.
They can answer any questions and schedule you for a complimentary consultation or treatment. Call 951-699-4746 today or use our contact form.