Removing a tooth can be a traumatic experience and profoundly impact our smile. In the past, dentists have used crowns and bridges to restore their smiles. While these approaches are still used, there is a growing preference for dental implants. This new form of restoration is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and can improve the jawbone’s strength. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple and scaled to fit the patient’s need. Dentistry Done Right is proud to provide dental implants to our patient family in Corona, CA.
Did you know…
that approximately 30 million people live with no natural teeth in one or both jaws? But more and more dental patients are opting for dental implants as a means of tooth replacement. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 3 million people currently have dental implants – a number that is rapidly growing by about 500,000 per year. Modern titanium implants were first developed in the 1950’s, but archeologists have determined that ancient Egyptians and Mayans were the first cultures to implant artificial teeth.
Discover The Dental Implant Difference At Dentistry Done Right
Dental implants are a form of prosthodontics mounted on titanium bolts inserted into the jawbone. These bolts serve multiple purposes, primarily securing the crowns attached to them. However, titanium also provides another benefit to the patient: osseointegration. This property of titanium makes it capable of fusing into the bone, becoming a permanent part of the jaw. This process also serves to strengthen the jawbone over time. This means dental implants not only restore the form and function of your smile but do so while strengthening it. Receiving Dental Implants is a multi-stage process. The steps involved include:
- Preparation – The process begins with removing any remaining teeth that need extracting. Once these have been removed, incisions will be made in the gingival tissue. Through these, Dr. Rhee will drill out a space for the titanium screws, insert them, and stitch the gum closed over them.
- Abutment – These sites are opened again at this stage, and a titanium abutment is placed atop them. Abutments are what join the titanium screws to the final restorations that will be mounted on them. The gums will require another healing period. Sometimes, a set of temporary crowns will be provided for the patient to wear during this period.
- Placement – At this point, the temporary crowns will be removed, and the permanent ones will be placed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants right for me?
You may qualify for dental implants if you have missing, broken or severely decayed teeth and are in relatively good overall health. The only way of determining your eligibility for implants is to consult with an oral care provider to identify whether you have adequate bone support and healthy gums that will support the new tooth structure.
What should I expect if my dentist and I decide dental implants are right for me?
The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process that typically takes between 6 and 9 months to complete. It begins with a surgical procedure during which a titanium rod is placed where a previous natural tooth root once was. The gums are sutured shut over the implant, where is will stay for several months while it heals and begins fusing with the surrounding bone. Due to the nature of implant placement and its average procedure time of between 1 and 2 hours, you’ll be sedated and/or anesthetized for the duration of the treatment. At the conclusion of the healing period, you’ll return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.
What type of post-treatment care will I require?
It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling following a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications, hydrocodone, or codeine. You may be asked to eat only soft foods for approximately 2 weeks until the surgical site heals.
From this point forward, dental implants will require regular oral hygiene care. This process is the same as that associated with your natural teeth. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and use mouthwash as a final rinse. During your twice-a-year visits, Dr. Rhee will remove the dentures to inspect the mounting points and perform a thorough cleaning. In addition, they’ll also be inspected for damage to ensure no additional care is needed.
Reach Out To Dentistry Done Right To Learn More
Dental implants are a life-changing choice for thousands of dental patients every year. The procedure itself is performed in an outpatient setting, though you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Dentistry Done Right has been working with patients throughout Corona, CA, to ensure they get the dental care they need. If you have one or more missing teeth or require extraction, call for a consultation today. Our team