Multiple Tooth Implant Spokane, WA
Losing multiple teeth can have an adverse impact on your daily life and oral health. Apart from difficulty chewing, it can make it problematic to speak clearly. Further, it can cause misalignment as the other teeth move toward the gaps. Without replacing the lost teeth, your facial structure could start to curve in, making you appear older. Our qualified implant dentist, Dr. Bryan Hill, at Bryan Hill, DDS can help you reclaim your natural, functional smile. Dental implants are a way of restoring lost teeth. An implant in the form of a threaded post constructed of titanium or zirconia is affixed to your jawbone through a dental surgery process and later on, a dental crown or other dental restoration is mounted on top.
Multiple Tooth Implant Procedures
There are four main stages of the multiple tooth implant process.
Consultation and Treatment Planning
The consultation stage involves an assessment of your oral health and a review of your medical history. We discuss the outcomes of the procedure and map out the treatment. We also take x-rays and 3D scans to help check the underlying bone and any potential hidden dental issues. Where preliminary treatments are needed, we schedule you for the appointment before beginning the implant surgery.
Implant Placement
The posts are fitted surgically. The number of implants placed will depend on the location and number of missing teeth. Sedation and local anesthesia are often administered to ease off anxiety and phobia and ensure you are pain-free and calm during the procedure.
Healing and Osseointegration
After implant placement, you will spend the next few months healing. During this time, the implants will combine with the jawbone to become one, a process referred to as osseointegration. When the post and bone fuse together, they create a stable foundation for the final restoration process.
Abutment and Restoration Placement
Abutments are connectors between the implants and the replacement teeth. They are fitted after the osseointegration process is complete. After that, you can have dental crowns, dentures, or custom-made bridges attached to the abutments. The replacement teeth are crafted meticulously to match the natural function and appearance of your teeth.
Aftercare Instructions
Dental implant aftercare has to commence immediately after the procedure. Steer clear of hot food and drinks and stick to cold ones. The first few days may present some discomfort because of inflammation, pain, and swelling, therefore, consider using pain relievers and ice packs. While you will brush prudently in the days leading up to surgery, after the procedure, be careful while brushing to avert dislodging the clot of the healing wound. Use saltwater rinses to clean the mouth. Make trips to our dental office so that our dentist can inspect your mouth. This way, we can establish whether the implants are functioning properly and are firmly and securely in position.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
If you ensure diligent care and maintenance, dental implants could last for decades or even a lifetime. They are designed to be a permanent solution. The crowns, however, will be replaced at some point because they are vulnerable to wear. Crowns last up to 15 years; however, the implant posts can endure for a lifetime. Take the first step towards restoring your bite function, health, and aesthetics. Contact Bryan Hill, DDS by calling (509) 505-6303 to request a consultation and explore the possibilities of multiple tooth implant solutions. |