Dental Implants Modesto, CA
There are several dental solutions for people facing tooth loss. Dental implants are an effective procedure for people who need one or more replacement teeth. This procedure involves inserting small metal posts into the jawbone and attaching an artificial tooth to each post.
This procedure is highly popular since implants look and feel natural. With proper care, many patients can keep their implants for the rest of their lives. Dental implants are available at Great Smiles Dental in Modesto and the surrounding area. Call us at (209) 222-3636 to schedule an appointment.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots to support new replacement teeth. During the procedure, an incision is made in the patient's gum to expose the bone where the implant will be placed. We will then insert the implant and suture the gum around the implant post. In some cases, a temporary denture is used instead of replacement teeth.
Following the surgery, the bone needs to heal around the dental implant. This process can take several weeks or months. Once it is sufficiently strong, a dentist can fit the permanent replacement teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic, some extra steps may be necessary. For patients with weak jawbones, a bone graft may be needed to ensure sufficient strength. After the bone has healed, an abutment connects a crown or dentures to the dental implant.
“Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots to support new replacement teeth.”
How to Care for Dental Implants
An empty tooth socket exposes the surrounding teeth to harmful bacteria, possibly causing decay. While dental bridges and dentures can cause irritation and broken skin that can cause infection, dental implants improve oral health and are simple to maintain. Once healed, dental implants cover the empty socket and allow patients to clean their teeth and gums easily.
Patients can care for dental implants similar to how they care for natural teeth. Proper dental implant maintenance includes flossing and brushing, as well as regular dental checkups. Patients with gum, tooth, or mouth conditions may receive additional care instructions. Getting in touch with a dentist promptly after noticing any problem is another key to maintaining implants properly.
“Patients can care for dental implants similar to how they care for natural teeth.”
What To Expect After the Procedure
Following the procedure, it is common to have swelling and discomfort around the implantation site. Some patients may experience minor bleeding and bruising of the skin and gums in the treatment area. These side effects can be managed with pain medication and antibiotics if necessary. Patients can expect such side effects to subside after a few days.
After receiving dental implants, it is best to stick to eating soft foods while the bone heals. Most dental implant procedures use dissolvable stitches, so patients will not have to come back to get them removed. These stitches will usually fall out within seven to 10 days. Following the aftercare instructions and advice will help the healing process.
“Following the procedure, it is common to have swelling and discomfort around the implantation site.”
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Benefits of Dental Implants
An article in the Journal of Dental Research has noted the growing prevalence of dental implants between 1999 and 2016 and projects increasing predominance for the future. Several reasons contribute to the increasing popularity of implants for patients who need to replace teeth. They provide a wide range of benefits, including:
- Bone loss reduction: The loss of a tooth usually causes bone loss in the jaw, destabilizing the remaining natural teeth. If left alone, the jawline can shrink over time and lose overall density, causing more issues. Implants stimulate new bone cell growth and help maintain jaw structure stability.
- Natural feel: Dental implants feel natural and comfortable in the mouth. They are permanent, so there is no need to worry about them popping out while eating or speaking. Since they function similarly to natural teeth, dental implants exert similar pressure against the jawbone to keep it healthy and functional.
- No special maintenance: Patients can care for their dental implants similarly to caring for their natural teeth. Brushing and flossing can remain the same, but patients should floss more cautiously when running it against the gumline. Patients can benefit from following a routine similar to caring for natural teeth rather than adapting to a brand-new regimen.
“Several reasons contribute to the increasing popularity of implants for patients who need to replace teeth.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What happens during the dental implant process?
Q. What happens after the dental implant procedure?
Q. How to take care of dental implants?
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
People Also Ask
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does it take to insert dental implants?
A. The entire process, from initial consultation to the end, can take several months. The dental implant procedure usually takes an hour or less. This process can take longer, depending on the location of the site and the number of implants.
Q. What should I do if the dental implant gets chipped or cracked?
A. Typically, the crown attached to the implant can become damaged. A dentist can replace the crown. Patients should make an appointment with their implant dentist as soon as possible.
Q. Can I get implants if I have full or partial dentures?
A. Implants can serve as a base to attach permanent or removable dentures. Patients needing full or partial teeth replacements often find implant-anchored bridges more comfortable than other options. Implants can provide patients with additional stability and comfort.
Q. Is it likely I will have an allergic reaction to the materials in the implants?
A. Implant posts usually consist of a titanium alloy. A 2019 study found that titanium allergies are less common than other metal allergies. If patients have any concerns, they may have allergy testing done before getting implants.
Q. How soon can I return to work after getting dental implants?
A. Most people can resume normal functioning the next day. Some common side effects include gum and skin bruising, facial and gum swelling, and minor bleeding and pain. Dental professionals also recommend avoiding heavy lifting for 48 hours after the procedure.
Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us To Learn More About Dental Implants
Dental implants closely imitate the form and function of natural teeth. If you are missing teeth, this may be the solution for you. Call (209) 222-3636 to set up an appointment at Great Smiles Dental and learn more about this procedure.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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