Dental Implants: The Gold-Standard for Tooth Replacement
Innovative Comprehensive Implant Dentistry
A dental implant is a titanium post that is used to replace a tooth root. It can support a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants are the most durable, lifelike, and reliable replacement option for missing teeth; making them the modern gold-standard for tooth replacement. If you or someone you know are interested in expert dental implants in Nashville, come see us for a consultation at Smilodon Dental.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dr. Ormaza is an accomplished clinician in dental implant treatment, with years of experience in the field. His team provides high quality implant dentistry using cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive procedures. These treatment modalities include 3 dimensional scanning design and printing of restorations.
While providing the highest quality care, Dr. Ormaza further provides his patients with affordable treatment, making dental implants accessible to as many people as possible.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots to support new replacement teeth. During the procedure, an incision is made in the patient’s gum to expose the bone where the implant will be placed. We will then insert the implant and suture the gum around the implant post. In some cases, a temporary denture is used instead of replacement teeth.
Following the surgery, the bone needs to heal around the dental implant. This process can take several weeks or months. Once the implant is sufficiently integrated into the bone, permanent replacement teeth can be fitted. According to the Mayo Clinic, some extra steps may be necessary. For patients with weak jawbones, a bone graft may be needed to ensure sufficient strength. After the bone has healed, an abutment connects a crown, bridge, partials, or dentures to the dental implant.
How To Care for Dental Implants
Caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth, especially if the replacement teeth are permanent. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash is necessary for maintaining proper oral hygiene with implants. Getting your regular checkups and teeth cleanings at the dentist are critical for taking care of replacement teeth.
Dental implants may require extra cleaning to keep them in optimal condition. For example, removable, implant-supported dentures should be taken out at night and soaked in a denture solution. Patients can also use an oral irrigator or electric irrigator to help clean below and around the dental implants.
What To Expect After the Procedure
Following the procedure, it is common to have swelling and discomfort around the implantation site. The healing process can look different for each patient. Some patients may experience minor bleeding and bruising of the skin and gums in the treatment area. These side effects can be managed with pain medication and antibiotics, if necessary. Patients can expect these side effects to subside after a few days.
After receiving your dental implants, it is best to stick to eating soft foods while the bone heals. Most dental implant procedures use dissolvable stitches, so patients will not have to come back to get them removed. These stitches will usually fall out within 7-10 days. Following the aftercare instructions and advice will help with the healing process.
Are You Ready for a Consultation?
Take advantage of our new patient special offer and come see Dr. Ormaza for a free dental implant consultation. Your consultation will include:
Full oral examination
Needed X-rays or 3D scans
Gum tissue health assessment
Discussing your goals & treatment options
Answering all of your questions & concerns
Estimated costs of treatment
Schedule your dental implant consult appointment in Nashville at Smilodon Dental!
