The dental implant procedure in Riverside is a solution for individuals who have lost one or more teeth. The procedure involves the placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as an anchor for a replacement tooth. The process can be broken down into three main phases: the pre-procedure process, the procedure itself, and the recovery phase.
1. Pre-Procedure Process
Consultation and Assessment: The first step involves a thorough examination by a dentist or oral surgeon in Riverside. This often includes dental X-rays and sometimes impressions of the teeth. The goal is to assess the bone structure and determine if the patient has sufficient bone density for the implant.
Treatment Planning: Based on the examination, a customized treatment plan is created. For some patients in Riverside, this may involve planning for additional procedures if necessary, such as tooth extractions.
Preparation: Patients are typically advised to stop smoking, avoid alcohol, and may be asked to take antibiotics to prevent infection. For patients with anxiety, sedation options are discussed with our Riverside dentist.
2. The Procedure
Step 1: Anesthesia and Incision: The procedure usually begins with local anesthesia to numb the area, although general anesthesia may be used for more rare complex cases. An incision is made in the gum to expose the bone where the implant will be placed by the dental team in Riverside.
Step 2: Placement of the Implant: Using a drill, the Riverside dentist creates a small hole in the jawbone and places the titanium implant securely into it. Titanium is used due to its compatibility with bone tissue, which allows the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
Step 3: Healing and Osseointegration: After the implant is placed, the gum is closed over it, and healing begins. This healing period can last from a few months to six months, allowing time for the implant to integrate with the jawbone.
Step 4: Abutment Placement: Once the implant is securely fused, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This will eventually hold the artificial tooth.
Step 5: Crown Placement: Finally, after the gum tissue has healed around the abutment, a custom-made crown (prosthetic tooth) is placed on top, completing the process. The crown is designed to blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth in color, shape, and size.
3. Recovery Phase
Initial Recovery: Patients in Riverside can expect some pain, swelling, and bruising in the days immediately following the procedure. Ice packs and pain medications are typically recommended to manage discomfort.
Aftercare: Proper oral hygiene is essential during the recovery phase to prevent infection. Patients are advised to avoid hard or sticky foods and follow a soft-food diet while healing.
Long-Term Care: Full healing can take several months, but once healed, dental implants require the same care as natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
Follow-Up Appointments: Our Riverside dentist will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the implant site and ensure proper integration and healing.
Dental implants in Riverside have a high success rate and can last a lifetime with proper care, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits.
