Dentists in Dothan, AL explain what to expect after getting ceramic dental implants
Posted By Dr. Nathan Pfister
Tooth loss detracts from your smile and disrupts the natural balance of your mouth. The function and appearance of your smile are affected. Whether one tooth or multiple teeth are lost, dysfunction occurs. In Dothan, AL, Dr. Nathan Pfister, Dr. Brian Pfister, and the team at Biodentist Alabama offer ceramic dental implants to permanently replace missing teeth and to improve your quality of life.
Dental implants are small posts that are precisely positioned in the jaw in place of the missing teeth. Made of biocompatible ceramic, implants topped with a crown mimic the natural structure of the tooth. The implant replaces the root. It stimulates and helps maintain the health of the jawbone. An abutment attaches to the implant and sits above the gums. This allows the dentist to attach a biocompatible crown to complete the process. Topped with a crown, the implant restoration looks and functions as a natural tooth. At Biodentist Alabama, we only use ceramic implants as they are biocompatible, esthetically pleasing, and non-galvanic.
Getting dental implants requires more than one visit. Implants are precisely positioned in the jaw in place of the missing tooth or teeth. The area is given time to heal as the bone and gums integrate around the implant. For successful implant placement, osseointegration must occur. During this process, the implant fuses with the bone. It may take a few months, but it creates the foundation for a sturdy, secure restoration. Osseointegration is crucial to ensure the implant succeeds and functions as a natural tooth.
Immediately after the implant is placed, patients may notice discomfort as the anesthetic wears off. This is normal and is to be expected. Swelling and discomfort may be managed with ice or cold packs and over-the-counter painkillers. Try not to disturb the treatment area. Avoid rinsing, spitting, and touching the site on the day of the procedure. Remember, we try to use a gentle touch, but this is an oral procedure, and someone will be working in your mouth. Side effects will subside as the treatment site heals.
The inside of the mouth may be sensitive and tender. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the implant. Spicy foods may irritate the mouth so try to avoid them until sufficient healing has occurred. Avoid using a straw so there is no suction disrupting the implant site. As always, follow good oral health habits to maintain the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Follow your dentist’s instructions on how to gently cleanse the treatment site.
Caring for your implants
Compared to other dental restorations for tooth replacement, implants are a more permanent solution to replace missing teeth and restore the smile. Due to the placement in the jaw, implants are secure, stable options to replace missing teeth. They are not subject to decay and do not add pressure or cause damage to the surrounding teeth. By mimicking the tooth root, dental implants help keep the jaw healthy and maintain the health of the mouth. Implants are long-lasting restorations. Ceramic dental implants have a high success rate, and rarely fail due to rejection or functionality problems. They can last a lifetime with proper care.
Good oral hygiene is important, especially patients with dental restorations. Good oral habits help prevent the accumulation of bacteria. Prior to implant placement, it is important to minimize bacteria in the mouth to minimize the risk of bacteria or infections during the procedure. The healthier the mouth is to start, the greater the chance of a successful implant procedure and outcome.
Once the mouth has healed around the implant, good oral habits help ensure the longevity of the restoration. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your implant. Common tips may include the following:
Avoid abrasive products
Use essential oil toothpaste
Brush with a soft bristled toothbrush
Floss with dental floss for dental implants
Use oral irrigators for hard to reach areas
Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option. Ask Dr. Nathan Pfister and Dr. Brian Pfister about ceramic dental implants to restore the health and beauty of your smile. Contact the team at Biodentist Alabama to schedule appointments for the whole family. Call (855) 939-5566.
Dr. Pfister's passion for non-invasive biologic dentistry began while practicing dentistry in Hawaii and he learned of the power of ozone in dentistry. From Hawaii, Dr. Pfister moved to his hometown of Upland as the protégé of the world-renowned ozone dentist Dr. Bill Domb...
Dr. Brian Pfister was born and raised in Upland, CA. He attended Brigham Young University-Idaho, graduating with a degree in exercise physiology with a minor in chemistry. From Idaho, Dr. Brian returned to southern California to continue dental training at Western University College of Dental Medicine.