Understanding the implant procedure in Charlotte provides various advantages. It enables you to replace lost teeth with a permanent, natural-looking alternative. Access to qualified personnel guarantees high-quality care. Furthermore, it improves oral health, raises confidence, and produces long-term results.
1. Initial Consultation
Before moving forward with a dental implant procedure, you’ll first need to arrange a consultation with a specialist in dental implants. At Premier Dental, our experienced implant experts will work with you to develop a treatment plan customized to your specific needs.
During this initial consultation, the dentist will evaluate your oral health to determine if dental implant procedure in Charlotte are the most suitable option for you. This assessment may include X-rays and 3D imaging to thoroughly examine your bone density and jaw structure. If you’re eligible for the implant procedure, the dentist will create a personalized treatment plan outlining the number and type of implants needed, along with the anticipated timeline for the procedure.
2. Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a surgical technique involving the transplantation of bone to restore and strengthen damaged or diseased areas. This method is versatile and can be used to repair bones in nearly any part of the body.
3. Implant Placement Surgery
During the dental implant placement surgery, the surgeon makes a slit in your gum to expose the bone. After that, the metal post for your dental implant is drilled into the bone by your surgeon. The post is inserted deeply into the bone since it will act as the tooth root.
At this stage of the implant procedure, a gap will remain where the tooth is missing. For aesthetic purposes, a temporary partial denture can be used, if needed. This denture is removable for cleaning and while you sleep.
4. Healing Time (Osseointegration)
The osseointegration process typically requires 3-6 months or more to complete. During this time, you will visit implant procedure in Charlotte for regular checkups, allowing Premier Dental to monitor your healing progress and ensure everything is on track.
Titanium, the material used to make dental implants, has a unique ability to form a strong connection with your natural jawbone. As the surrounding bone grows around the implant over time, it becomes securely fastened and permanently locked in place. This secure integration explains why dental implants last much longer than other forms of tooth replacement. Essentially, the titanium implant becomes a natural part of your body. With good oral care, your implant will remain in place for the rest of your life.
5. Abutment Placement
The abutment is secured to the implant post with a small screw. During this step, the dentist carefully attaches the abutment, ensuring a precise and secure fit. Once positioned, the abutment is tightened to eliminate movement and maintain stability, providing a strong foundation for the final restoration. After the surgeon places the abutment, your gums must heal for at least two weeks before your general dentist or prosthodontist can attach the artificial tooth.
6. Restoration (Crown Placement)
After the healing process is completed, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to ensure that your final crown placement fits properly. Crowns can be either removable or set. If you choose a removable crown, it will be attached to the abutment and mounted on a metal frame, letting you to remove it at home for daily cleaning. A fixed crown will be screwed or glued permanently to the abutment.
7. Post-Operative Instructions
Following surgery, effective aftercare is critical to ensuring a smooth recovery and minimizing problems. Please carefully follow these directions and call your doctor if you have any unexpected symptoms or concerns.
- Always keep the wound clean and dry. Replace the initial dressing with adhesive bandages within 1-2 days, but leave the paper strips or sutures intact. Keep the ace wrap on for 5-7 days to reduce swelling, if one was applied. Avoid submerging the wound in water until your sutures are removed.
- Apply ice consistently during the first 5-7 days. After removing the dressing (on day 1 or 2), ice the area for 20 minutes, 3-4 times a day. Use ice carefully to prevent frostbite.
- Follow the weight-bearing guidelines provided at discharge. Use crutches or a cane if needed, and keep the limb elevated for the first 72 hours to minimize swelling.
- Expect nausea as a common post-surgery symptom during the first 24 hours due to the anesthetic. Stick to clear beverages and light snacks, such as crackers. A low-grade fever (up to 100.5°F) is normal, but contact your doctor if it exceeds 101°F. Take 81 mg of baby aspirin daily to prevent blood clots, continuing until your sutures are removed.
- Follow your pain medication instructions and take ibuprofen if necessary for additional relief. Avoid alcohol and driving while using narcotic medication.
- Refrain from driving if your surgery involved your right leg or if you are still taking pain medication. Schedule a follow-up visit in 7-10 days, and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms or emergencies.
8. Recovery Timeline
Most patients completely recover within two weeks of undergoing the implant procedure. Still, it’s normal for the implant site to feel sensitive to the touch. The implant must subsequently heal and fuse with the jawbone for three to six months.
Understanding the dental implant procedure in Charlotte is crucial for anyone considering this procedure at Premier Dental. We tailor each step, from the initial consultation and potential bone grafting to implant placement and recovery, to meet individual needs, whether for a single tooth or full-mouth restoration. With proper care and guidance, patients can enjoy a lasting, healthy smile. Consult our experts to begin your journey today!