All About Dental Implants

All About Dental Implants

Are you looking for dental implants in the Redmond area of Washington state? Do you want to learn more about dental implants before you seek treatment? Sunrise Dental has all the information you need about dental implants in one handy guide so you can make an appointment with us fully informed. Because regardless of how you lost your tooth, you need a replacement to restore your smile!

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root capped by a crown. The root is in the shape of a screw made of titanium or zirconia that fuses into the jaw bone. The crown matches the natural color and shape of your tooth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

During an examination, Dr. Narang will determine if you are a healthy candidate to receive dental implants. It is crucial that patients have healthy teeth, gums, and jawbones so the dental implant will fuse correctly with fewer risks. But let’s say you’re a good candidate and you’re about to go through the process of getting your implant.

Procedure

A complete exam will include x-rays and a model of your teeth. If you have existing dental problems such as gum disease or infection, those will need treatment first before you receive the implant. Once outstanding problems are cleared up, the day of the procedure will begin with local or general anesthesia so you won’t feel pain. A small hole is cut in the gum to expose the underlying jaw bone. A second hole is made via a drill into the bone so a titanium post can be inserted. The post screws into the bone to create a strong anchor point.  If your jaw bone is not strong enough, a bone graft may be necessary to increase strength. A strong base is essential for a dental implant.

You will need time to heal. Once the tissue and bone around the post are ready, you will get a porcelain crown on top of the post. Until then, your orthodontist can provide you with a temporary denture to fill the space.

Installation Time

The process will take several months to complete because you need at least two to six months for healing after the installation of the post. In the meantime, schedule follow-up appointments so Dr. Narang can check the post and your healing progress.

After The Procedure

Making additional appointments is not the only action you should be taking after the initial procedure. Be sure to arrange for someone to take you home afterward because of the effects of anesthesia. Let the orthodontist know if you are experiencing any pain, swelling, or bleeding. Feel free to take over-the-counter pain medications if you need them.

Avoid foods that could irritate the area during healing. That includes chewy, tough, sticky, and crunchy foods. Try sticking to a bland diet of soft foods, especially for the first few days., and drink plenty of water. Keep the area around the post as clean as possible. Even after you receive the crown, it’s best to avoid certain foods and drinks that could damage or stain it.

How Do You Clean Dental Implants?

It’s important to clean your dental implant just as you would clean your natural teeth. Keeping your implant clean will help it last longer. There are several cleaning options to choose from, the first of which is just with your regular toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be sure to brush underneath and around the crown. Use floss that is specific for dental implants. You can also use an oral irrigator.

Benefits of Dental Implants

You will look and feel so much better after receiving your implant and crown.

• Improve appearance
• Improve speech 
• Easier eating
• Better self-esteem
• Prevent jawbone loss
• Durability
• Convenience

Possible Risks

The chances of the following risks are low, but still possible. After all, it’s a surgical procedure.

• Infection at the implant site
• Damage to other teeth and blood vessels
• Nerve damage
• Sinus problems if the dental implant is in the upper jaw

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

The dental implant itself should last a lifetime with proper care. Dental crowns, however, last around 10-15 years before they need to be replaced.

What Do Dental Implants Cost?

The cost of a complete dental implant procedure ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 or more depending on how many you get and other treatments you may need. Dental insurance usually covers part of the cost and payment plans are available.

Will Dental Implants Prevent Me From Getting Braces Or Clear Aligners?

You can absolutely still get braces or clear aligners if you have a dental implant. Clear aligners are made just for you and your teeth, which means your dental implant will be taken into account in the design. As for braces, they will merely be bonded to the crown using a different kind of adhesive.

What If My Dental Implant Is Damaged?

A dental crown can break just like a natural tooth. But it can be easily replaced. Contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to get a replacement crown to prevent damage to other teeth or infection. To prevent damage to your crown or implant, avoid harder foods or at least don’t chew them with your artificial tooth. Wearing a mouthguard during sports activities will also prevent damage via impact.

Are Dental Implants Right For Me?

The only way to find out if dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation or appointment with your orthodontist. An examination by Dr. Narang will determine if you qualify as a good candidate.

Contact Sunrise Dental Today!

Getting a dental implant does not have to be scary or complicated. It’s as simple as making an appointment with Sunrise Dental, which you can do by calling our office at 425-307-1317 or filling out our online contact form. Don’t wait to fill in the gaps in your smile. You can have a full smile again. We proudly serve Redmond and surrounding communities in Washington state. We want our patients to have the best smiles possible, and we are ready to help you get yours. To learn more, contact us today!

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