25 Apr Do Dental Implants Require Special Care?
The process of receiving one or more dental implants requires a serious commitment. The procedure is explained completely from start to finish before undertaking and your implant dentist will keep you well informed throughout the process of what you can expect and how to respond.
Initially you will receive a very thorough dental exam. This might include x-rays to make sure there is sufficient bone structure to support your implant. A medical review will be conducted as well to make sure you are healthy enough to undergo the surgery required. Patients who suffer from auto immune disorders are reviewed very carefully as the risk of implant failure is higher in patients with diseases like diabetes.
Once determined that you are a good candidate for dental implants, a small screw like device made from titanium or a similar metal is surgically placed in the gum tissue where tooth loss has been sustained. Unless you are receiving an immediate restoration, a temporary cover will be placed over the implant to protect it during the healing process.
The healing process can take anywhere from four to six months. During that time it is critical that you floss daily and brush your teeth at least twice per day to keep the implant area clean. The primary reason for implant failure is from infection so this is most important.
Patients that smoke are advised to quit before the dental implant process is started. Refraining from the use of tobacco products is essential as smoking is also a major cause of implant failure.
There are no specific diet restrictions to observe throughout the healing process with the possible exception of eating something that is sticky or chewy that might pull the temporary cover off. Also, if you are susceptible to grinding or teeth clenching your dental provider might fit you with a bite guard as preventing the movement of the implant is crucial.
Once your implant has been uncovered and your implant dentist is satisfied the healing process is complete and the implant has fused to the bone, a final restoration is placed over the implant.
Your good oral hygiene habits that you observed during the healing of your implant should be resumed after you have received your final restoration. Twice annual visits to our San Antonio office for a professional cleaning and exam should keep your smile bright for many years.