SANTA CRUZ, SCOTTS VALLEY CA
Implants are as close to natural teeth as a tooth replacement can be, from appearance to form and functionality — even down to the stimulation of the jawbone that a tooth root usually provides. This is why our cosmetic dentists at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry and countless others recommend dental implants over other restorative treatments to our patients.
Dental implants do more than replace a missing tooth. They also drastically improve a patient’s oral health. If you’re missing one tooth or more, our dentists have compiled the following information to help you answer the question, What’s it like to get a dental implant?
But first, let’s start with the basics …
What’s a dental implant?
Dental implants are a multi-part process that includes titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone and then topped with a custom dental crown. The post replaces a missing tooth root and provides stability for the added dental crown. After placement of the titanium post, the gums and jawbone heal and fuse to the implant over the course of about six months. Once healed, a custom-colored porcelain dental crown is permanently attached to the implant post.
Is the procedure painful?
Our implant dentist in Santa Cruz administers a local anesthetic before the procedure so patients are comfortable throughout it. Our dental team understands that anxiety is sometimes an issue in a dental setting, so we offer sedation to patients who suffer from dental anxiety.
Will I experience pain after the implant procedure?
As with any surgery, some discomfort and swelling can be expected after the implant procedure. Most patients report that the dental implant process, itself, is more comfortable than the tooth extraction. Discomfort caused by pain or inflammation is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications.
Successful implants may cause some gum sensitivity after initial placement, but the tenderness should subside after a few days. If you experience excessive pain, a fever or facial swelling, it could be an indication that something is wrong. Our dental team will provide “just in case” instructions in the event something feels off after the procedure.
How long does recovery take?
The healing process will vary with each patient because each procedure — and a person’s pain tolerance — is different from others. Typically, most patients can return to school or work on the same day of 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 last from a few days to a week or more. Our cosmetic dentist in Scotts Valley will recommend a diet of soft foods, avoiding exertion, getting plenty of rest, brushing and flossing your teeth and attending all scheduled follow-up visits to monitor progress. Following these recommendations will help you move effortlessly through the recovery stages and ensure every chance of overall implant success.
DENTAL IMPLANTS IN SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ, AND LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
Dental implants are a highly successful treatment for a missing tooth, and the procedure lasts for years. If anything, the crown may have to be replaced years down the road. If you need a tooth extracted, or if you’re missing one that needs to be replaced, our team at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry will be happy to answer any questions you have about dental implants. Call us today at (831) 824-5111 to schedule a consultation and receive an evaluation of your teeth and a recommendation for how to best address any issues you may have.
