Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth and are designed to last a lifetime with proper oral care. Dental implants look and feel like real teeth and are the only replacement option that provides jawbone stimulation to prevent the bone from diminishing. Getting dental implants involves oral surgery, which may sound intimidating to some patients. But today on the blog, Okemos implant dentist Dr. Christine Tenaglia explains what it feels like to get dental implants so you can make this decision without fear.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are comprised of three parts – 1) a titanium implant post, 2) a custom-made implant crown, and 3) an abutment that attaches the crown to the top of the implant post. The implant can be placed after the jawbone heals following a tooth extraction. This healing process could take several months, but your implant dentist in Lansing will let you know when it is time to move forward with getting the implant placed.
Does getting the implant placed hurt?
Most patients that have received dental implants report that they did not experience discomfort during their surgical procedure because the area numbed beforehand. Afterward, some patients reported a dull ache or minor discomfort that was easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Additionally, patients report that undergoing the implant placement was easier and less painful than when they had their tooth extracted.
What to expect after implant placement
Placing the implant post takes a few minutes. It actually takes longer to numb the area than it does to place a single implant in most cases. Once the implant placement is complete, the healing process begins. It is important to avoid smoking after getting a dental implant because nicotine impedes blood flow, slows the healing process, and increases the likelihood of implant failure. Your body may need a period of about six months to ensure the implant takes and fuses to the jawbone. After the healing period, you are now ready to get your implant crown.
What’s it like to get a dental implant crown?
Getting the dental implant crown is one of the easiest dental procedures to undergo. In most cases, the patient doesn’t need any anesthetic for this procedure. The crown is tried on first to ensure a proper fit. If everything is in order, the implant dentist in Lansing, Dr. Tenaglia, permanently secures the crown to the implant post and makes any necessary bite adjustments before sending you on your way.
What happens after my implant procedure is completed?
Once you receive your crown and the implant procedure is complete, you should continue practicing good oral hygiene, brush your teeth, and floss daily to keep the implant area clean (along with your other natural teeth). Dental implants should look and feel completely natural and last for years with proper care and maintenance. It’s also essential to visit a general dentist near you in Okemos once every six months to have your implant and oral health assessed.
Are dental implants right for me?
Getting dental implants can restore your smile, ability to chew and bite properly and increase your confidence. If you’d like to learn more about getting dental implants in Okemos or find out if you’re a candidate for dental implants, contact Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733.