Are you contemplating dental implants for tooth replacement? You
may be thinking about the process of obtaining these restorations and how they will improve both the
function and health of your smile in the long run. Every case is unique, and no two patients share the
same experience. Drs. Stephen
Gaines and Arti
Patel at
Sherwood Dental in the Oakville, Ontario, area
are here to help you understand the healing process after dental implants have been placed to
replace
a single tooth or several teeth. Let's look at some frequently asked questions our team has heard
regarding recovery after placing implants.
What is a dental implant?What can I expect during my surgical procedure to place dental implants?
During the surgical procedure for implant placement, the area where the implant will be placed is numbed
with local anesthesia. Our team also offers several sedation options for patients who are anxious or who
have a fear of dental procedures. Once you are comfortably numb, a small incision is created in the gum
tissue to access the jawbone. The implant is carefully placed directly into the jaw bone, and the tissue
is sutured closed. The entire process will take approximately an hour but will vary greatly depending on
the complexity of your case.
Will I experience any pain or discomfort after my dental implant surgery?
As with any surgical and medical procedure, some mild discomfort and swelling are expected after dental
implants are placed. The healing process of tooth implants is the longest part of the process, as bone
growth, known as osseointegration, needs to occur to solidify the dental implant into the jaw's bone.
How long does a dental implant last?
After the initial healing process, patients must maintain their dental implants with regular
appointments at their dental office and proper at-home habits. Our team finds that most individuals will
enjoy their dental implants for life with appropriate attention! However, the restorations placed above
the implant, such as crowns,
bridges, and
dentures, may need to be replaced with time.
What can I do to ensure the longevity of my dental implant?
There are ways to protect your dental implants over time. We encourage patients to maintain proper oral
hygiene practices, such as brushing twice daily and flossing daily. Avoiding very hard or sticky foods
can also prevent damage to the restoration on top of the implant. Additionally, regular visits to your
dentist for check-ups and cleanings can help catch any potential oral health issues early on.
Who can I call to learn more about the healing process of dental implants?
If you want to know what to expect from the healing process following the placement of
dental implants,
we encourage you to schedule
an
appointment with
Drs. Stephen Gaines
or
Arti Patel and the
team at
Sherwood Dental to discuss your needs. We are conveniently located at 2892 South Sheridan Way in the
Oakville, ON, community and can be reached by dialling
844-951-8855.
