You have lost a tooth in a car accident. Your dentist in Castle Rock, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington, recommends replacement with today’s superior prosthetic–the dental implant. You know that as an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Dr. Kennington has impeccable credentials and skills. Still, you have questions about the treatment and aftercare. Don’t worry, we understand. If you are a candidate to receive a dental implant in Castle Rock, you will receive thorough and patient answers to all your concerns from the friendly staff at Cowlitz River Dental.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
In general, the process of getting a dental implant takes several weeks to months. The in-office implant surgery takes one to two hours, from local anesthesia, to incision of the gums, to placement of the implant device and closure. However, the healing time needed to fuse the jawbone strongly to the titanium screw is six to eight weeks weeks or more. Bone augmentation or sinus lift procedures, which are needed to prepare some implant sites, add more time to the process.
Who is a Candidate?
Adults and older teens in good health may qualify for dental implants. The individual must have sufficient bone density to accept the implant. Also, he or she should be free from gum disease and other oral health issues. Tobacco use and systemic diseases are also of concern.
What is the Procedure Like?
During the implant consultation, Dr. Kennington performs a complete oral exam, explains the implant process and takes X-rays and three-dimensional imaging to understand underlying bone structure and for precise insertion of the titanium device.
At the next appointment, the dentist numbs the implant site and incises the gums. He drills a small hole in the jaw bone and screws the titanium implant in place. He sutures the site closed over the implant.
At home, the patient may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to control minor discomfort for a day or two. Also, he or she must not chew on the implant until it is fully healed.
Over the next several weeks, the jawbone slowly bonds to the implant. This process, known as osseointegration, is really miraculous. The resulting bond between the bone and the implant withstands the substantial physical forces of biting and chewing.
After healing, the patient returns to Cowlitz River Dental for placement of a titanium alloy extension post. The dentist then places a customized porcelain crown on the post and adjusts its fit and bite. The dental implant is then complete. The patient can look forward to years of dependable, comfortable service and wonderful aesthetics, too.
Do Implants Work for Extensive Tooth Loss?
Yes, they do. Dr. Kennington uses them to replace one, two or more teeth in a row with an implant-supported bridge. Implants can anchor partial or full dentures, too.
How Do You Care for a Dental Implant?
Your new dental implant looks and acts like a real tooth, and you care for it in the same way. Floss daily to remove toxic plaque, preventing gum disease around the implant site (peri-implantitis). Brush twice daily with a soft brush, and get semi-annual check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Kennington.
Additionally, smoking threatens implant retention, even after healing. So, if you smoke, see your primary care physician about how best to quit.
Find out More
If you are missing one or more teeth, or anticipate an extraction, consult Dr.Kennington about dental implants. Contact Cowlitz River Dental for an appointment, and bring your questions!