The Dental Implant Procedure Livermore, CA
While losing one or more teeth can be inconvenient, a dental implant procedure can restore the function and appearance of your smile. They are a more natural tooth replacement option than other tooth restoration options. The dental implant procedure involves inserting metal, screw-like posts into the jawbone to replace the root of the lost tooth and provide support for an artificial tooth.
Dental implant procedures are available at Livermore Dental Spa in Livermore and the surrounding area. To get dental implants, you must be in good health and have healthy and adequate bone density. Contact our office at (925) 344-3993 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Reviewing Concerns During the Consultation
During the initial consultation for dental implants, the dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including X-rays, CT scans, oral exams, and dental impressions, to determine the patient's eligibility and prepare them for the procedure. The dentist will need to know the patient's medical history, every medication they currently use, including supplements, prescription, and over-the-counter medications. Patients who have health conditions may receive antibiotics ahead of the procedure to prevent infection. If any oral condition is present, patients will need to undergo treatment before getting dental implants.
Afterward, the dentist will discuss the treatment plan with the patient, including the timeline, the different stages, and aftercare instructions. The treatment plan considers the number of missing teeth and the condition of existing teeth and jawbones. If the patient suffers from dental anxiety, the dentist will take the necessary measures to keep the patient comfortable throughout the procedure. Patients should discuss their fears and concerns with the dentist, such as concerns about risks of infection, implant rejection, potential allergies, and possible nerve damage.
For clarification, patients can also ask the dentist about measures to ensure the long-term success of the dental implants. The initial consultation allows patients to address their questions and concerns before proceeding with treatment.
“Patients should discuss their fears and concerns with the dentist, such as concerns about risks of infection, implant rejection, potential allergies, and possible nerve damage.”
Preparing at Home for a The Dental Implant Procedure
Ahead of the dental implant placement, patients can take certain steps and actions at home to reduce their anxiety. One helpful way to reduce dental implant fear or anxiety is to prepare ahead of time. This may include taking any prescribed antibiotics, using antibacterial dental rinses, and preparing soft food options at home. Patients can also arrange for transportation home after the procedure and clear their schedule after the implant to get sufficient rest.
Our dentist will take the necessary precautions and provide patients with the instructions and guidance to ensure a smooth treatment process. Before we proceed with the treatment process, our team will talk with the patient to determine the right plan to help them receive the implant as comfortably as possible. We will explain the procedure so that patients understand each step and feel safe receiving an implant.
“One helpful way to reduce dental implant fear or anxiety is to prepare ahead of time.”
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implant surgery involves replacing natural tooth roots with artificial roots using metal, screw-like posts that hold an artificial tooth, such as a crown or bridge. The type of surgery performed will depend on the type of implant and the condition of the patient's jawbone. This is discussed during the consultation appointment and the patient should have a good understanding of their procedure type prior to surgery.
The implant procedure typically consists of several stages and treatments with recovery periods in between. The process involves a series of steps:
- Damaged tooth removal
- Jawbone preparation (grafting), when needed
- Dental implant placement
- Bone growth and healing
- Abutment placement
- Artificial tooth placement
During the day of the procedure, the patient will be put under an anesthetic to eliminate pain or discomfort during and after the treatment. We make a small cut to open the gums and expose the bone underneath. Then, we drill holes into the bone to make space for the dental implant(s). The implant post is ready for the application of the artificial tooth replacement.
“The type of surgery performed will depend on the type of implant and the condition of the patient’s jawbone.”
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Procedure Length and Success
The process of placing dental implants depends on the condition of the patient. The procedure takes multiple stages spread over several months to ensure the success of the restoration and the patient's comfort. The uniqueness of dental implants is in their fusion with the jawbone, which is known as osseointegration and accounts for most of the treatment time. Once the dental implant is placed, osseointegration starts immediately. It could take several months because the jawbone must integrate with the dental implant to serve as a sturdy foundation of the new artificial tooth.
After osseointegration is complete, the dentist will place the abutment, which is the piece that connects the crown to the implant. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis and takes about an hour. It is also possible to place the abutment immediately after implantation. After placing the abutment, the gum will need some time to heal before attaching the crown. Aside from having the function and appearance of a natural tooth, a dental implant is placed without compromising the structure of existing teeth. Also, the dental implant replaces lost tooth root, therefore ensuring better preservation of the jawbone.
“The procedure takes multiple stages spread over several months to ensure the success of the restoration and the patient’s comfort.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What happens during the dental implant procedure?
Q. What happens during the initial consultation for dental implants?
Q. What can patients do to reduce their anxiety about receiving a dental implant?
Q. How long does it take to place a dental implant?
Q. What is the recovery process like after receiving a dental implant?
People Also Ask
Q. What happens after the procedure?
Q. How do dental implants compare to dentures?
Q. What happens during the bone graft procedure?
Q. How many post-op follow-up appointments will I need?
Q. How do dentists determine whether a patient is a candidate for dental implants?
Q. What can patients do to reduce their anxiety about receiving a dental implant?
Home Care and Recovery
After the procedure, patients may need to use pain meds and antibiotics to relieve pain and fight infections. If discomfort, swelling, or other symptoms worsen following the procedure, the patient needs to contact the dentist as soon as possible. Until the stitches heal, it is advisable to stick to a diet of soft foods.
Excellent oral hygiene is important to prolong the lifetime of dental restoration. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, going to the dentist for cleaning and checkups, and avoiding harmful oral habits such as smoking or chewing hard substances.
“After the procedure, patients may need to use pain meds and antibiotics to relieve pain and fight infections.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is dental implant placement painful?
A. With the techniques available and aftercare tips, many patients experience minimal pain throughout the process. In most cases, they can resume their routine the following day. Although bruising and pain may occur, they usually last for only a short time.
Q. Will dental implants function like natural teeth?
A. Yes. Implants are as strong and reliable as natural teeth. By the end of the treatment, you will be able to eat your favorite meals. Generally, it will be hard to tell the difference between dental implant restoration and natural teeth.
Q. How long does a dental implant procedure take?
A. The average treatment period is three to six months. Most of the time is taken up by the osseointegration process. The treatment time usually depends on the patient and the complexity of the situation.
Q. How do I know if I am eligible for dental implants?
A. There is a good chance that you are eligible for dental implants. However, the dentist will determine your eligibility by performing different examinations. You need to schedule an initial consultation to get started with the process.
Q. Are there any risks associated with dental implants?
A. The dental implant procedure is safe, but like any other dental procedure, it has its risk. According to a 2018 study, dental implants had a success rate of 98.6% after five years. Ultimately, the success depends on factors such as the patient, the dentist, the techniques used, and the number of implants involved. When done by an experienced dentist, the risks of the procedure are minimal.
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Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
Call us at 925-344-3993 or get in touch via email to learn more about the dental implant procedure or to schedule a time to come in for an initial consultation. Our friendly staff is willing and able to answer your questions and guide you through each step of the process.
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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