The Dental Implant and Implant Restoration Process
An x-ray needs to start the process and confirm that the jawbone has the density necessary to support the implant. Once we have agreed that it can indeed support this solution a local anesthetic will be used to numb the soft tissue of the gum. If you experience dental anxiety a mild sedation can be administered to make you comfortable. After an incision is made a small hole will be drilled in the jawbone in which a titanium post will be inserted. We might conclude the first visit by sending you home with a temporary crown. While we wait together for the post to fuse to the bone, sometimes in the range of two to six months, an artificial crown is fabricated at a dental lab. After the titanium post has naturally adhered to the jaw, a process called osseointegration, then Dr. Dolgov will add an extension on to that post. This is called an abutment. With the abutment in place the final step is to add the crown on top. The implant restoration process is now complete. Unlike a bridge there is no metal framework to look at or
brush around. Or no removal like a partial denture. The next best thing to a natural tooth.
Ensuring the Prolonged Life of Your Dental Implants with Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Initially following your successful implant, you will be advised to follow a soft food diet. This is to avoid putting excessive pressure on the new implant and the titanium post in the jawbone. Slowly you can reintroduce hard foods. If the implant was the result of a sporting accident, we will suggest that you let us make you a mouth guard prior to you participating again.
Once you have completely healed, we will want you to continue with good oral hygiene practices at home. We will share with you that the dental industry strongly suggests that we all brush our teeth twice a day, for two minutes at each time. Then flossing at least once a day is the basis for a good oral hygiene practice at home. This will remove the bacteria carrying plaque daily not allowing it to form on the teeth. The plaque is the culprit behind cavities and gum disease. If you like our service and want us on your dental health team we will also encourage you to establish appointments every six months for evaluations, x-rays and professional teeth cleaning. Prevention is the ticket in the dental business. We like to see patients with healthy teeth and gums. We are also advocates of helping you keep your natural teeth for your lifetime. By working together, we can extend the life of your dental implant and keep it looking natural for years. Remember, your smile is priceless. If you follow these guidelines and continue with good habits not only will your natural teeth look and last longer, but your dental implant will as well. They can literally last your lifetime if you take proper care of them.