When it comes to oral health, gums are often overlooked until problems arise. However, gum health plays a critical role in maintaining a vibrant smile and overall well-being. A periodontist specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases and is your go-to professional for addressing more advanced dental issues. If you're in Newton, MA, and you've noticed some changes in your gums or teeth, it might be time to consult a periodontist.
Here are seven early warning signs that indicate you might benefit from seeing one.
Bleeding Gums While Brushing or Flossing
If your gums bleed during routine oral care, it’s often an early indicator of gum disease, such as gingivitis. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed easily, so bleeding is a signal that something isn’t right. A periodontist can assess the health of your gums and provide treatment to prevent the condition from worsening into more severe forms of periodontal disease.
Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
Everyone experiences bad breath occasionally, but if it’s persistent despite proper oral hygiene, an underlying gum infection could be to blame. Bacterial buildup in gum pockets or under the gumline often leads to halitosis. Consulting a periodontist ensures proper treatment to eliminate the infection and restore your oral health.
Swollen, Red, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums are firm, pale pink, and snug around your teeth. If you notice swelling, redness, or tenderness in your gums, it’s time to pay attention. These are common signs of inflammation caused by gum disease or infection. An early visit to a periodontist can prevent complications and help you maintain a healthy smile.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Teeth that feel loose or out of alignment can be a sign of advanced periodontal disease, where the supporting bone structures start to deteriorate. A periodontist can assess the extent of bone loss and recommend treatment options to stabilize the teeth, such as bone grafting or deep cleaning.
Gum Recession
If your teeth appear longer or you notice that your gums are receding, it’s often due to periodontal disease or excessive brushing. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. A periodontist can address gum recession with treatments like gum grafts to protect your teeth and restore your gumline.
Pain or Discomfort While Chewing
Consistent pain or discomfort while eating, particularly when it involves your gums, isn’t something to ignore. It might indicate an infection or gum inflammation. A periodontist will help identify the cause and outline a treatment to alleviate the pain and preserve your oral function.
Pus Around the Gums or Teeth
The presence of pus is a definitive sign of infection. Gum abscesses, which often come with swelling or pain, require immediate attention. A periodontist will professionally clean the affected area and may recommend additional treatment to eliminate the infection and prevent further damage.
Protect Your Smile with Expert Care
If you’ve observed any of these signs, don’t wait for the issue to escalate. Periodontal problems are best treated early to prevent long-term complications. At Periodontal Associates in Newton, MA, our skilled team specializes in advanced periodontal care to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Take the first step by contacting us today to schedule your consultation.
Learn more about our specialized services by visiting our periodontics page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What is a periodontist, and how are they different from a general dentist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases. They receive additional years of specialized training beyond dental school. While a general dentist handles routine cleanings and basic dental care, a periodontist addresses more complex gum issues, such as severe periodontal disease, gum recession, and dental implant placement.
When should I see a periodontist instead of my regular dentist?
You should see a periodontist if you experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, or gum abscesses. Additionally, if your dentist recommends advanced treatments like gum surgery or dental implants, a periodontist has the expertise to provide these specialized procedures.
At Periodontal Associates, we provide modern periodontal solutions to residents in Newton, MA, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team is dedicated to restoring healthy, confident smiles. Visit our website to schedule an appointment with us today!
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry. While traditional solutions like dentures or bridges offer temporary fixes, implants provide a long-lasting, natural-looking, and functional alternative. But how do dental implants actually work? Today, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this innovative procedure, so you can feel confident in your choice to restore your smile.
At Periodontal Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how dental implants can transform not only smiles but also lives. Patients regain their confidence, function, and overall oral health thanks to this advanced treatment. If you’ve been considering implants or simply want to understand the process better, keep reading.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium or zirconia posts inserted into the jawbone. They act as artificial roots, creating a sturdy foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth like crowns, bridges, or overdentures. The beauty of implants lies in their ability to fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This makes them exceptionally strong and stable, mimicking the natural tooth root in both appearance and function.
Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on your gums, implants integrate directly into your bone. This enhances your bite strength while preventing bone loss, which is a common problem after tooth loss. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them the gold standard for tooth replacement.
The Implant Placement Process
The process of getting dental implants is typically completed in a few stages, ensuring the best possible outcome. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation
Your implant process begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, we’ll assess your overall oral health, take diagnostic scans, and determine if your jawbone is healthy enough to support implants. If bone density is insufficient, a bone graft may be recommended to prepare the site.
2. Surgical Placement
Once your treatment plan is finalized, the implant placement surgery is performed. Our experienced periodontists at Periodontal Associates use precision techniques and advanced technology to place the implant post into the jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience.
3. Healing and Osseointegration
After placement, the implant requires time to fuse with the jawbone—a process that usually takes 3 to 6 months. This healing phase is crucial, as it establishes the stability needed for the final restoration.
4. Attaching the Restoration
Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment (a small connector) is attached to the implant. Your custom crown, bridge, or denture is then secured to this abutment, completing your smile transformation.
Why Are Dental Implants a Superior Choice?
Dental implants stand out for several reasons, significantly improving your oral health and quality of life:
- Natural Look and Feel
Implants are designed to replicate the appearance and function of natural teeth. From chewing to speaking, they feel just like the real thing.
- Enhanced Comfort
Unlike traditional dentures, implants do not shift or move. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
- Longevity
Dental implants are built to last. Proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups ensure they remain a permanent solution.
- Bone Preservation
When teeth are missing, the jawbone can shrink over time. Implants stimulate the bone, preventing deterioration and maintaining facial structure.
How to Care for Your Dental Implants
Caring for dental implants is remarkably similar to caring for natural teeth. Consistent oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings will keep both your implants and your surrounding teeth healthy. Here are some simple tips:
- Brush twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Floss daily, especially around the implant site, to remove bacteria and debris.
- Visit your periodontist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice to prevent damage to your implant restoration.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure the durability and success of your dental implants for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
Are dental implants painful to get?
Surprisingly, many patients report that getting dental implants is less painful than expected. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort. Some minor swelling or discomfort is normal after surgery, but it typically resolves within a few days. Your periodontist will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
At Periodontal Associates, we are committed to helping our patients achieve healthier, more confident smiles with expert dental implant care. With over 40 years of experience, our certified periodontists offer personalized solutions tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment today at our Newton or Framingham locations and take the first step toward a lasting smile.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
The first step in treating gum disease is accurate diagnosis. Periodontists are specialists trained to catch gum disease in its earliest stages before it becomes a more significant problem. During your visit, the periodontist will perform a thorough examination of your gums, teeth, and jawbone. This examination might include periodontal probing to measure the depth of gum pockets and X-rays to detect bone loss. Each diagnosis is tailored to the individual, ensuring that we address the unique severity and progression of the disease. By identifying gum disease early, we can often use less invasive treatments to restore your oral health.Scaling and Root Planing
For mild to moderate cases of gum disease, the most common and effective treatment is scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure goes beyond regular dental cleanings.- Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, where it builds up and promotes bacterial growth.
- Root Planing smooths out the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Gum Disease
When gum disease progresses to a more advanced stage, known as periodontitis, surgical and regenerative treatments may be necessary. Periodontists have specialized training in procedures aimed at repairing the damage caused by periodontitis.- Pocket Reduction Surgery: Also known as flap surgery, this procedure reduces the size of gum pockets to prevent further bacteria buildup. It allows for easier cleaning and maintenance at home.
- Bone Grafting and Soft Tissue Grafting: These procedures restore lost bone or gum tissue, providing support for the teeth and preventing further deterioration. This regenerative approach not only halts the disease’s progression but helps to rebuild the foundation of your oral health.
- Laser Therapy: Using advanced dental lasers, periodontists can precisely target and remove infected tissue while promoting faster healing. Laser therapy is often less invasive than traditional surgery, leading to shorter recovery times.
Comprehensive Support for Long-Term Health
Treating gum disease isn’t just about addressing the immediate symptoms; it’s about preventing recurrence and maintaining long-term oral health. Periodontists play a critical role in helping patients adopt practices to preserve their improved gum health. Education on proper brushing and flossing techniques, combined with professional maintenance cleanings, ensures you can keep gum disease at bay. Many periodontists also collaborate with general dentists to monitor your oral health, ensuring a team-based approach. By partnering with a specialist and staying proactive about your oral care, you can protect your gums and teeth for years to come. To learn more, visit our page on periodontics.Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What does a periodontist do that a general dentist doesn’t?
While general dentists focus on overall oral health, periodontists specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. They also perform advanced procedures like dental implants and bone grafting, making them the go-to experts for complex oral health issues.Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with proper care and treatment. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue becomes permanent. That said, periodontists can manage periodontitis to prevent further damage and restore as much oral health as possible. At Periodontal Associates, we are dedicated to improving the oral health and quality of life of our patients in Middlesex County, MA. With decades of experience and cutting-edge treatments, our team is here to help restore your healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today!Periodontal disease is a condition that impacts the health of your gums due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If allowed to progress, it can threaten your oral health and eventually lead to tooth loss. Thankfully, intervening with treatment early allows you to reverse or halt its progression. This article explores how it is done.About Periodontal Disease
There are different stages of periodontal disease. The earlier you take action, the greater chance you have of being able to reverse the damage. In its earliest form, gingivitis, the gums are often red, swollen, and bleed when brushing or flossing. Here is where it can be totally reversed with the help of good oral hygiene and professional care. Once the disease progresses to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, steps can be taken to improve oral health and halt its progression. While you may not be able to fully reverse it at this stage, you can keep the disease from getting worse.How to Reverse Periodontal Disease
So, how is periodontal disease treated? How can you reverse it? There are a few steps you can take to improve your oral health.Give Your Oral Hygiene Routine a Boost
To reduce the risk of bacterial infections that cause and feed periodontal disease, you have to properly care for your teeth and gums. It’s no surprise that one of the best things you can do to help reverse early-stage periodontal disease is to begin practicing good habits when caring for your oral health.- Brush thoroughly twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria before they build up.
- Floss every day to reach the areas your toothbrush can’t.
- Swish and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to remove anything harmful left behind.
Have Routine Cleanings
Visiting your dentist regularly is so important for reversing periodontal disease. It doesn’t matter how well you care for your teeth, professional cleanings just take it to the next level. They can uncover areas where your brushing and flossing have missed, giving you a greater chance of being free and clear of plaque and tartar buildup. You should have one of these cleanings at least every six months. However, if you are battling periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend you visit more frequently.Undergo Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are highly effective procedures for those with more advanced periodontal disease. This treatment gives your gums a deep cleaning by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline where it usually forms pockets. Scaling removes all of this buildup while the root planing smooths out the roots and allows the gums to fit smoothly against the tooth once again.Engage in Healthy Habits
Developing some healthy habits can have a positive impact on your oral health. For instance, eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your immune system and strengthen your teeth. Limiting sugary foods can reduce your risk of plaque buildup. And, of course, if you are a smoker or use tobacco in any form, stop. Not only does it weaken your immune system, but it can also make it harder for your gums to heal.Reverse Your Periodontal Disease at Periodontal Associates
If you are interested in improving your oral health and reducing the impacts of periodontal disease, the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help. Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our two convenient locations: Framingham 508-875-6185 or Newton 617-964-6185.Frequently Asked Questions
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup that leads to gum infections. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, underlying health conditions, and genetics can all be contributing factors.Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is typically used for the procedure so that you do not feel anything, but once it wears off, you may have some mild discomfort and soreness. Over-the-counter pain relievers work great at providing relief.Dental implants continue to grow in popularity as the best option for tooth replacement thanks to their aesthetic and functional benefits. They are designed to provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to restore smiles and improve oral health. However, patients who are considering dental implants often ask about the cost before making any treatment decisions. This article explores the factors that impact the cost of dental implants in Framingham, MA.Average Cost of Dental Implants
In Framingham, the cost of a single dental implant typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,500. This price includes the implant, the surgical procedure to place it, the abutment, and the dental crown. A few appointments will be necessary from start to finish, and the cost of these visits should also be included in this cost. Any additional treatments that are needed to complete the dental implant will often be in addition to this amount. Of course, the best way to know just how much you can expect to pay for your dental implant is to schedule a consultation with your dentist.Factors that Impact the Cost of Dental Implants
Many factors are considered when determining the cost of a dental implant procedure. Let’s take a closer look.The Materials Used
Dental implants can involve different materials, which can affect the total cost. While the implant itself is often made of titanium, other materials can be used to create this artificial root. Another example is the dental crown. While porcelain crowns are the gold standard, many other material options can be used in their place. Depending on what your dentist recommends and what you choose will either increase or decrease the overall cost of getting dental implants in Framingham.The Dental Practice
There are many steps to getting dental implants, from the initial consultation with your dentist to follow-ups once the implant is placed. Because dental practice sets its prices, you should do your research and choose someone who has the experience and precision to properly place your implant. In other words, to ensure a successful procedure, you may want to base your decision on skill rather than going for the cheapest option.The Complexity of the Procedure
In addition to the dental implant, abutment, and crown, some patients require additional procedures — which can increase your cost. For instance, solid bone density is required of a good candidate for a dental implant. Without it, you may still be able to move forward, but not without having a procedure, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift to improve your bone density. Although this is not something every patient will encounter, it must be considered when discussing the cost of dental implants.Learn More About Dental Implants
Are dental implants right for you? The skilled team at Periodontal Associates can help restore your smile and improve your oral health with dental implants. Find out how much the cost will be based on your needs by scheduling an appointment today at our Framingham office 508-875-6185 or our Newton Centre office 617-964-6185.Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get dental implants?
On average, it takes about 5 to 8 months to get a dental implant. However, this length of time varies for each person as some require additional treatments and healing times.How painful is getting a dental implant?
The dental implant surgery itself should not include any pain thanks to the local anesthetic used to numb the area. Once it wears off, it is not uncommon for patients to temporarily feel some level of pain and discomfort. Medication is typically provided to help with relief.Getting dental implants can be a life-changing decision if you are someone who is missing one or more teeth. They not only look like real teeth, but they function like them, too. The process of getting dental implants is quite long and there is no denying that the cost can be quite high. This leaves many patients questioning their longevity and whether or not they are worth the time and investment. The good news is that dental implants are the best, high-quality solution for tooth replacement — and they have a long lifespan. But just how long do dental implants last? Let’s talk about it.How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants typically come in three pieces— the implant itself, the abutment, and the dental crown. To give you a very broad idea of how it works, the implant is placed in the jaw as the anchor and the abutment attaches to it, holding the crown in place. Because the implant is fused with the jaw bone, it can last upwards of 25 years. The dental crown, on the other hand, has an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. Both of these can last even longer with the right care and attention.Factors that Impact Dental Implant Longevity
How long your dental implants will last can depend on a few factors that you may or may not have control over. Taking these into consideration can help you to determine how long they may last for you.- Poor oral hygiene
- Bruxism (grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw)
- Smoking
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Certain medications
- Poor bone quality
- Smoking
Caring For Your Dental Implants
Providing exceptional care for your implants can extend their life. You will keep decay, gum disease, and bacteria at bay — and promote a healthy mouth. Brushing and Flossing. You will want to brush and floss your teeth and gums at least two times per day, especially before going to bed. A Waterpik is also a very effective tool for thoroughly cleaning around your implant and under your crowns. Routine Dental Visits. Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. This will elevate your oral health and allow your dentist to catch any problem areas before they grow. Regardless of how well you care for your teeth at home, there are still areas you miss — and your dentist will address them. Ditch Bad Habits. Taking care of your teeth means having to give up some bad habits. If you smoke, bite your nails, grind your teeth, or find yourself chewing on pen caps, stop. These can cause serious damage to your natural teeth as well as your implants.Learn More About Dental Implants
If you still have questions about dental implants or want to find out if they are a good option for you, the team at Periodontal Associates can help. Schedule an appointment today at one of our two convenient office locations. Framingham Office: 508-875-6185 Newton Centre Office: 617-964-6185Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
It is very common for them to pay a percentage of the total cost. However, what your dental insurance will cover will depend on your specific policy. Be sure to reach out and learn about your benefits.How painful is it to get a dental implant?
The dental implant procedure is done using a local anesthetic to keep you from feeling anything. As it wears off, you may have some temporary discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers for a couple of days are usually all that is needed.Dental implants are highly sought to replace missing teeth. If they are successfully placed, they have proven to be a long-lasting solution that can boost oral health and improve one’s quality of life. So, how do you get the highest level of treatment and optimal results? You need the right dentist. Below are a few tips to help you find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA.Specialized Training
Most general dentists can perform many types of treatments. It’s why we visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and exams or when experiencing tooth pain and discomfort. They cover general dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more. There is no denying that a general dentist can perform a long list of procedures to restore your oral health. However, additional surgical training can equip dentists better for dental implants. When searching for the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, closely examine the dentist’s education and ensure they have the necessary specialized training.Extensive Experience
Experience is key to finding success with your dental implants. For instance, the post must be surgically implanted in a very precise place within the jaw bone. If not, it can lead to complications and may even fail altogether. Further, those with low bone density may need to first undergo bone grafting to build up a stronger jaw bone capable of securing the implant. Both of these procedures involve very specific techniques and are best handled by someone with experience. Without it, you are putting your implants - and oral health - at risk.Technology and Equipment
To provide the utmost care to patients, the latest technology and equipment are a must. This is crucial when it comes to the perfect placement of dental implants. 3D imaging allows dental professionals to create a model of your mouth, making it easier to plan accordingly for the implant placement. Computer-guided surgery then helps the dentist to perfectly place the post in the bone. These tools can help to reduce the treatment time and discomfort while increasing the success rate.Seek Recommendations
One of the easiest ways to find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA is to ask for recommendations. Talk to your local friends, family, co-workers, or neighbors and ask if they have invested in dental implants themselves. For those who have, ask about the dentist they chose and the overall experience. If it was positive, take a look at the dentist’s website and, if you feel like you may have found the right one, schedule a consultation.Dental Implants in Framingham, MA
Are you looking for dentists who tick all the boxes in Framingham, MA? At Periodontal Associates, our dentists are certified and highly skilled surgical specialists with decades of experience providing the highest-quality dental implants. From experience to expertise, as well as two convenient locations, what more can you ask for? Contact us today to schedule your appointment or request an appointment online. Framingham Office: 508-875-6185 Newton Office: 617-964-6185Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for implants?
Unfortunately, while many will cover a percentage of the cost to help you move forward with the treatment, most dental insurance plans will not cover the entire cost of the dental implants. Keep in mind that this varies greatly based on the specific coverage of your plan.Are dental implants painful?
Local anesthetic is used during dental implant surgery, so you should not experience any pain. As its effects begin to wear off, some minor discomfort may be felt, but this is temporary. Dental implants should not cause any pain once they have healed.The need for artificial tooth replacement is a necessity and dental implants are a wonderful option for individuals who are missing one or more natural teeth. They have been around for decades, but they continue to grow in popularity due to their resemblance to a real tooth, both aesthetically and functionally. Most patients will find that they are candidates for dental implants, but this treatment is not the ideal solution for everyone. This article explores what candidates for dental implants have in common.A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Oral Health
Good oral health is very important when getting dental implants since opening a mouth up for oral surgery when it is full of decay or bacteria can be very risky. Thankfully, if you do have some trouble areas with your teeth and gums, addressing them before getting dental implants can allow you to be a candidate. The goal is to make sure that you work with your dentist to address any areas of concern so that you have the best opportunity for successful implants.A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Bone Density
The density of your jawbone will play a significant role in getting dental implants. When the titanium post is implanted into the jaw, it needs to fuse with the bone to create a strong anchor for your artificial tooth. Unfortunately, without enough bone density, this won’t be able to happen. There are several reasons that individuals face jawbone loss. However, regardless of the reason, bone grafting can help to rebuild the bone so that it may securely hold the implant in place. Keep in mind that bone grafting will require additional time as it takes a minimum of four months to heal before you can move on.A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Patience For the Process
Finally, a candidate for dental implants will need to have an understanding that the process is not quick. For instance, you will first have your consultation to determine whether you are a candidate before the next steps are scheduled. If bone grafting is necessary, this will take place first before the post is implanted. Next, the implant will need at least a couple of months to fuse with the jawbone before the abutment and the custom dental crown can be attached. In all, expect the process for dental implants to take up to six months — or longer. If you are patient with the process, you will reap the benefits later.Other Criteria for Dental Implant Candidates
A few other things that should be taken into consideration when determining if someone is or is not a candidate for dental implants are:- Good oral hygiene to maintain your oral health
- Good overall health
- No use of tobacco, including smoking or chewing
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Will dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants? Whether or not your insurance will cover the cost of dental implants depends on your policy. If it does, it will usually cover a percentage. Are dentures cheaper than dental implants? Dentures often appear to be cheaper than dental implants. However, they are not designed to last as long which means they will require more frequent replacement — and this cost will add up over time.Find Out if You Are a Candidate for Dental Implants
If you want to discover how dental implants can transform your life, find out if you are a candidate from the specialists at Periodontal Associates. Contact us today at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation. Framingham Office 508-875-6185 Newtown Office 617-964-6185Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options available. They look natural, function just like real teeth, and are long-lasting solutions, too. All of these benefits often prompt patients to seek out more information about dental implants — and to find out if they are a good candidate for them. This patient’s guide to the dental implant procedure will give you a better understanding of what to expect.Step One: The Consultation
Before you can move forward with a dental implant procedure, you have to know whether or not you are a candidate for it. Setting up an appointment with a skilled periodontist is the best place to start. During this appointment, you can expect to have a comprehensive oral exam as well as some digital images and impressions. The dental specialist is trying to confirm that you have a sufficient amount of jawbone to support an implant — and that you have good oral hygiene without any sign of infection. If you are a candidate for the procedure, your next appointment will be set.Step 2: Placing the Dental Implant
During the procedure, the implant, typically made of titanium or zirconia, will be surgically placed in the jaw. Local anesthesia will be used so that you do not feel anything for the duration. You will be given post-surgical instructions that you should follow carefully to reduce the risk of infection and give yourself the best chance for success. It will take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the implant and the bone to fuse thanks to a process known as osseointegration. During this time, the surrounding soft tissue will grow around the implant as if it were a natural tooth root. Keep in mind that if you do not have sufficient bone mass in the jaw, you will be required to undergo bone grafting before the dental implant can be placed. This may add several additional weeks/ months to the overall process but is necessary to ensure the success of the implant.Step 3: Adding the Dental Crown
Once your dental specialist feels that the implant has fused to the bone and can become a strong anchor for the tooth, the dental crown will be attached to the post with the help of an abutment. This crown will be customized to match your other teeth in size, shape, and color so that it will blend in well and look just like one of your other teeth. With this addition, your smile and your bite force will be fully restored.Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for dental implants?
Some insurance plans will cover a percentage of the cost of dental implants. It is always a good idea to check the specifics of your coverage with your insurance carrier.How long do dental implants last?
The average lifespan for a dental implant is 20 to 30 years. Dental crowns will typically need to be replaced in 10 to 15 years. With exceptional oral hygiene, you can give an ever greater boost to their longevity.Interested in Dental Implants?
If you would like to learn more about dental implants or see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, the dental specialists at Periodontal Associates can help. We have extensive experience in the perfect placement of dental implants. If you’d like to learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us today. Or, you can request an appointment online.It’s true — getting dental implants can take a lot of time as the process from start to finish can last several months. Nonetheless, this high-quality way to replace missing teeth is growing in popularity and becoming more and more accessible to patients.
With growth comes new advancements, such as the ability to get implants in one day. While it is not a solution for every patient, certain circumstances do allow it. Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding Same-Day Dental Implants
Being able to get your dental implants in one day is very convenient. You can walk into the dentist missing one or more teeth and walk out with a new tooth, an implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures. How is that possible?
Traditional implants require the tooth to be extracted, the post to be implanted, and time to pass for the implant and the bone to fuse together. This alone usually takes 3 to 4 months, if not longer. Then you will go back and have the abutment and dental crown attached. The entire process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to complete.
Dental implants that are done in one day will involve the placing of the implant, the abutment, and the crown all in one visit. And, if an extraction is needed, that will be taken care of, too.
While the procedure takes place in one sitting, a couple of visits are required. You will meet with your dentist for a consultation to ensure that you are a candidate for the procedure and handle the prep work for it. Then you will have your implant date and a follow-up visit.
Who is a Candidate for Same Day Dental Implants?
It may sound like an ideal solution, but not everyone is a candidate for same-day dental implants. You will need to have enough bone density to support the implant, as well as good oral health and oral hygiene. No signs of decay or gum disease can be present.
Your periodontist will do an oral examination during your consultation and determine whether or not you are a candidate for the fast-track to dental implants or if traditional implants would be a more successful option. Remember, your dental specialist is always looking at the best option for your oral health — and the one that will yield the greatest results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alternative to dental implants?
Traditional dentures and dental bridges are alternatives to dental implants. While they work well and have been around for decades, they do not offer the same high-level functionality that comes with dental implants.
Do dental implants hurt?
The dental implant procedure is performed using local anesthetic keeping you from feeling any pain for the duration. It will eventually wear off and you may feel mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medication can offer relief.
Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates
Are you interested in dental implants? If you want to see whether or not you are a candidate for this gold standard of tooth replacement, our team of highly experienced dental specialists at Periodontal Associates is here for you. We address each dental implant patient with the utmost care and precision.
Contact us at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation today.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newtown Office: 617-964-6185