Common Questions about Our Dental Implants in Meridian
Are you considering getting dental implants in Meridian ID? This advanced procedure is an excellent way to restore your smile if you've experienced tooth loss. Implants are a totally natural-looking way to get a beautiful and healthy smile again. They can also enhance your smile and provide an added layer of support and protection from future dental decay. Dental implants promote a youthful appearance because they support both your jawbone and your facial muscles.
When people lose teeth, it can lead to a deterioration of the facial structure because there's nothing there for the structure to support. This could create wrinkles and lines, as well as causing problems for the rest of your otherwise healthy teeth. That is why tooth restoration is not only cosmetically beneficial, but it has practical benefits as well. Read below to find out what you should ask Dr. Stillings if you are considering dental implants.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Patients who qualify for dental implants will need to meet some or all of the following requirements:
● Missing teeth
● Difficulty chewing
● Loose or broken teeth
● Dental bridges that food gets trapped under
● Non-smokers
Are dental implants the right option for me?
There are several methods available to restore the look and feel of your smile. From dentures to inlays and overlays, the options range from total smile restorations to individualized tooth restorations. There is only one person who will be able to determine which method would best suit the needs of your smile, and that person is our dentist, Dr. Stillings.
How many visits to the dentist are required?
Our dental implants are a lifelong commitment, so they will require several visits to perfect. The number of visits will depend on the individual needs of the patient. If your smile has some teeth that require extraction, that will lengthen the process of receiving your dental implants. Teeth extraction is a serious procedure that is very commonly paired with dental implants. Your gums will need time to heal following a tooth extraction so the length of the process may be extended by several weeks. You may also require bone augmentation to regenerate the jawbone in order to create adequate support for the dental implant. This may also take several weeks to fully complete.
The actual process of getting dental implants requires two procedures. At the first procedure, a titanium screw will be inserted in the jawbone where you will have the implant. Once that is healed, you will come back in to have a custom crown attached. This crown will be made to look exactly like your natural teeth, so it will take a week or two to be created in a dental laboratory. You will then have that inserted into the implant and your smile will be complete. Everyone’s treatment length is different because every smile is unique. Consult with Dr. Stillings to learn more about your specific dental needs.
Is sedation necessary?
Getting Meridian dental implants is a fairly invasive process, so sedation methods are recommended. There are various methods of sedation dentistry available including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), IV sedation, or oral sedation. The level of sedation used will be determined by Dr. Stillings based on how complex your surgery is, your patient history, and your comfort level. Ask Dr. Stillings which level of sedation would be best suited for your procedure.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
The success rate of dental implants varies by placement in the mouth, though the general consensus is 98%. Ask Dr. Stillings about any individual concerns you may have about your procedure.
How often will they need to be adjusted?
Dental implants are a lifelong commitment, so they will likely never need to be adjusted. With proper care, dental implants can last you a lifetime. The custom crown is typically made of porcelain, which is incredibly durable and doesn’t show signs of wear. Other material that is sometimes used for dental work can chip or break easily and may need to be replaced more often. You will need to care for your dental implant the same way you need to care for your natural teeth. That means brushing twice a day, flossing after meals, and using fluoride products to protect teeth from damage and decay. Regular visits to Dr. Stillings every six months will also help ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Fred Stillings today to learn more about dental implants in Meridian ID. Reach us at (208) 377-3206 or by filling out a contact form directly on our website and our team will get in touch with you. Restore your smile to your natural beauty - call our office today to schedule your consultation.
