Safe Dental Implant Surgery in Wylie, TX
The idea of undergoing a surgical procedure can be daunting or overwhelming. However, our Wylie dentist, Dr. G, provides safe and comfortable dental implant surgery for those needing to replace one or multiple missing teeth.
If you’re ready to see if dental implants are best for you, contact Trusted Dental Care in Wylie, TX, today by calling (214) 702-0446 and setting up an appointment. Dr. G is one of the best dentists in Wylie and will help you meet your smile goals!
How Dental Implant Procedures Work
Initial Consultation
The first step in receiving dental implants is to schedule an initial consultation with our dentist in Wylie. During this appointment, Dr. G will:
- Review your dental and medical history.
- Conduct a comprehensive dental exam.
- Take X-rays and, if necessary, 3D images of your jaw.
- Discuss your treatment options and develop a customized treatment plan.
Treatment Planning
A well-crafted treatment plan is crucial for the success of dental implants. The plan will consider:
- The number of teeth you need to replace.
- The condition of your jawbone.
- Your overall oral health.
Our dentist may also recommend a bone graft if your jawbone is not strong enough to support implants.
Supplemental Procedures
For some patients, additional procedures may be recommended before they can replace missing teeth with dental implants. Procedures such as bone grafting, tooth extraction, and soft tissue grafting are common for those suffering from low jawbone density or who have underlying oral health conditions, such as periodontal disease.
These supplemental procedures can be performed before or during the implant process, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of their case. Dr. G will evaluate your specific situation and determine if any additional procedures are necessary to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.
In some cases, dental implants may not be right for you. Our dental specialists or an oral surgeon may recommend other restorative dentistry treatments, such as removable dentures or a dental bridge.
Dental Implant Placement
Once your jawbone is ready, the dental implant is surgically placed into the bone. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia. Our Wylie dentist will:
- Make an incision in your gum to expose the bone.
- Drill a hole into the bone and insert the implant post.
- Close the incision with stitches.
Over the next few months, a process called osseointegration occurs, where the implant fuses with the bone, creating a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
Recovery Period
During the recovery period, the post will begin the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is a natural process where the bone around the implant post begins to fuse with the jawbone. This process is essential for the implant to be secure and stable. It takes several months for osseointegration to be completed.
The healing time for osseointegration varies for each patient, but you’ll be able to return to your normal routine after a few days. Sticking to a soft food diet and following any instructions provided. You may have some discomfort or swelling for a few days to a week.
Remember, each patient heals differently, so the entire dental implant timeline will fluctuate for each person.
Placing the Artificial Tooth
Once your gums have healed, our dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create an artificial tooth, known as a dental crown. The crown is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. It’s then attached to the abutment, completing your dental implant treatment.
After Your Dental Implant Surgery
After your dental implant surgery, it’s essential to take great care of your oral hygiene to ensure proper healing and reduce your chance of complications arising. Here are some tips to help you out after oral surgery:
- Follow our dentist’s instructions
- Manage pain and swelling with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medications
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
- Eat soft foods and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or spicy
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Attend follow-up appointments
To learn more about post-op dental implant care, our Wylie dentist has created a detailed guide to assist you with a speedy recovery. You can also contact our practice by calling (214) 702-0446 and our team will answer your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not necessarily. In some cases, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone without the need to remove any existing teeth. However, if there aren’t enough healthy teeth or if the jawbone is too thin or weak, tooth extraction may be necessary before the implant surgery.
On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. The implant surgery itself takes just a few hours during one appointment, but the post needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before your dentist places the final restoration, typically a dental crown or bridge. Osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months and is a crucial step, as this is when your implant post naturally fuses with your jawbone.
The dental implant procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort is expected after the procedure, but it can be managed with pain medication.
While dental implants are generally safe, risks include infection, nerve damage, sinus issues, and implant failure. Choosing an experienced dental specialist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can minimize these risks.
Get Dental Implants and Love Your Smile Again!
Do you still have questions about dental implants? Contact our Wylie dentist today. With years of experience in implant dentistry, he’ll answer any questions you may have about the dental procedure and help you determine if dental implants are right for you.
Call our dental office at (214) 702-0446 to schedule your appointment.