What To Know About Dental Implants
When patients are in need of a tooth replacement, we often recommend dental implants. Dental implants are needed when the tooth structure as well as the tooth root is severely damaged or has been removed. The treatment process includes an artificial tooth root that is surgically implanted into the jawbone followed by an artificial tooth structure such as a dental crown. This tooth replacement method is extremely popular because it is the only choice that acts, looks, and feels like your natural teeth.
What to Know Before Getting Implants
Dental implants are a popular treatment that many of our patients feel is life changing. That being said, it is important to understand some important information that can help ensure the treatment is a success:
Understand the Process
Unfortunately, dental implants are not a fast tooth replacement method. The process will take many months and different stages to complete. We want to make sure your mouth heals properly following each stage of treatment. Failure to allow proper healing time will result in a failure of treatment.
Don’t Miss an Appointment
We schedule appointments for patients receiving implant treatment following each stage to check on the healing process. It is important to attend these appointments as we need to ensure your body is not rejecting the implant.
Follow Our Instructions
Following each stage of treatment, we will provide instructions to follow that will include how to clean your mouth, foods to eat and avoid, and rest time. Failure to follow our instructions can result in extreme discomfort and treatment complications.
No Smoking
We request patients stop smoking before receiving implants. The repeated sucking motion keeps the incision site from healing properly. Patients who smoke also have a greater risk of the implant not fusing with the jawbone.
If you are considering implants, please call our office for an appointment to discuss how implants can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. We are located in Houston, TX and look forward to hearing from you soon.
