Serving areas of Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
When it comes to replacing your missing tooth, you may wonder if a dental implant can provide a permanent solution. Dental implants are the closest dental treatment that mimics your natural teeth in look, feel, and stimulation of your jawbone, which is why dentists choose dental implants over other procedures. A leading dental implant dentist in Okemos, Dr. Christine Tenaglia, explains what it is like to get a dental implant and how it can benefit your overall oral health.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted directly into your jawbone and topped with a dental crown. Your professional Lansing implant dentist, Dr. Tenaglia, explains that the post replaces your tooth root and provides stability for the added dental crown. After placement of the titanium post, your gums and jawbone require about six months to heal and fuse to the implant. Once healed, a custom-colored porcelain dental crown is permanently attached to the implant post.
Will the dental implant procedure cause pain?
The dentist will administer a local anesthetic using an injection into your gums so that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Patients who suffer from dental anxiety may benefit from sedation during treatment. Dr. Tenaglia, a sedation dentist in Okemos, understands anxiety in a dental setting and therefore uses sedation dentistry to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Will I have pain after the implant placement?
It is normal to experience some discomfort and swelling, just as with any other surgical procedure. For comparison, most patients explain that the dental implant process was more comfortable than the extraction. Discomfort caused by pain or inflammation is manageable with over the counter pain medications. Successful implants may cause gum sensitivity after initial placement, but Dr. Tenaglia explains that the tenderness should subside after a few days. If you experience excessive pain, a fever, or facial swelling, it could be an indication something is wrong. Therefore, contact Dr. Tenaglia as soon as possible for additional instructions.
How long is the recovery period for dental implants?
The healing process varies with each patient, and each procedure is different from another. Typically, most patients can return to school or work the same day after completing the procedure. However, the complete healing process requires three to six months before becoming stable enough for the addition of the dental crown. Each recovery stage can fluctuate from a few days to a week or more. Dr. Tenaglia, your professional implant dentist in Lansing, recommends consuming soft foods, avoiding exertion, getting plenty of rest, brushing and flossing your teeth, and attending follow-up visits to monitor your progress. Following Dr. Tenaglia’s recommendations while healing will help you through the recovery stages and ensure you have implant success.
Are alternative treatments available other than dental implants?
In short, yes. Although dentists prefer the use of dental implants for missing teeth, there are some alternative treatments for those who may not be a candidate for dental implants. A partial denture or a dental bridge could complete your smile by filling in the gap and restoring functionality. However, the dental implant dentist near you in East Lansing, Dr. Tenaglia, explains that dental implants are the only jawbone supported treatment that reduces your risk for bone loss.
Dental Implants in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Dental implants are a highly successful treatment for a missing tooth that lasts for years. If you are not a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Tenaglia, your Okemos implant dentist, can find a solution that will meet your oral care needs while promoting good oral health. Discussing dental implants with Dr. Tenaglia can help you understand more about the process and what to expect. If you are ready to learn more or want to start your dental implant journey, contact Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733 or schedule an appointment online today!