The dental implant process is a lengthy one that spans the course of six months to a year. Though the length of the process varies from patient to patient and depends on several unique factors, all patients should begin the process in the same way. The following four steps can increase the likelihood that your dental implants will be successful.
Before you can begin the implant process, you must first determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Your dentist will perform a visual exam, take X-rays, and review your dental and medical records. If, after reviewing your oral health, your dentist determines you make a strong implants candidate, he or she will work with you to develop a plan and inform you of what to expect at each stage of the process. Your dentist may also go over the costs of the procedure with you and explore payment options.
In many cases, dentists recommend that future implant patients begin a course of antibiotics in the days leading up to the procedure. Antibiotics act as a substitute immune system and help to prevent implant failure. They do this by preventing the body from attacking the implants, which are, for all intents and purposes, foreign bodies and a perceived threat. Dentists recommend antibiotics for most implant patients. However, taking antibiotics is a particularly important step for people with chronic health conditions.
If your jawbone is weak, or if you have existing oral health issues, you may have to undergo bone grafting and other procedures to strengthen your jawbone and prepare it for implants. If you do not properly prepare your jaw, there is a high likelihood that your implants will fail. Patients must typically wait several months after a bone graft to begin the implant process.
In the 24 hours before your surgery, you will have to prepare your body. You may need to fast for between 12 to 24 hours before your appointment time.
How you care for your implants post-surgery also affects their success. Ideally, you will clear your schedule on the day before and the day of your surgery. You should also plan to take one week off from your normal activities, including work and exercise. If possible, recruit people to help you around the house for two to three days following the procedure. Finally, schedule a follow-up visit with your dentist before the day of the surgery.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Dental implants can greatly affect your oral health and overall quality of life. Preparing above according to the above steps may help set you up for success.
Request an appointment or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at 561-763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.
The teeth are an essential part of the human body, which is why so many people turn to dental implants. Without enough teeth, it is harder for people to bite into and chew their food and harder to enunciate certain words when speaking. When many teeth are missing, the shape of the face will change,…
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may consider getting dental implants. Implants are a popular tooth replacement option, as they look and feel like natural teeth and, most enticing of all, have the potential to last for a lifetime. That said, though implants offer several benefits, they do come with a few…
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than 120 million Americans are missing one or more teeth. Dental implants are a common treatment method and are becoming increasingly popular. Implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth and help to restore the functionality needed for proper biting, chewing, and even speaking. A potential recipient…
Since implant supported dentures are a customizable and versatile tooth replacement option, almost anyone looking…
The periodontist typically takes bone from elsewhere in the mouth, but they can use hip…
Dental implants are useful for smile transformations because they closely mimic real teeth.
Periodontal disease may make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures because it exposes…
Most periodontists regularly perform oral surgeries like implant installation.
The teeth are an essential part of the human body, which is why so many…
