What Steps are Involved in Getting Dental Implants?

We’ll start the procedure with a free consultation. We’ll go over all of your questions and offer some suggestions based on your unique dental needs. The implant process is divided into two steps: first, the dental implant placement, followed by the dental implant restoration performed here at Pima Family Dentistry.

Your teeth, gums, and jawbone need time to heal between treatments while we complete your implant restoration one step at a time. Although the implant placement process can take several months, you may think of this restorative dental option as an excellent investment for your teeth’s functionality and health in the long run. 

Implant Placement

The doctor who places your implant will ensure you are at ease and ready to start during the initial placement process. To ensure your comfort, they will administer anesthesia before the procedure. They will carefully place the implant into your jawbone and then provide a temporary crown you can wear until we are ready to finalize the process and while your mouth heals before the next step. In order to help customize the final crown, we will take any impressions required. 

Dental Implant Restoration Placement

After the healing period, you will return to Pima Family Dentistry, and our dentists will attach the replacement tooth—a dental implant restoration—to the implant post. Your implant replacement could be a dental crown, dental bridge, complete denture, or partial denture, depending on which teeth are missing and your individual dental needs. Every dental implant restoration is custom created to comfortably and aesthetically suit your smile. The last step is to secure the crown and check its comfort and reliability. At this point, your new dental crown is ready for use!

What Can I Expect Following an Implant Procedure?

You might be wondering if dental implant placement is uncomfortable. The answer may surprise you – many patients report that the process is not uncomfortable the way you might imagine. 

Many patients who receive a traditional dental implant can experience minor discomfort, which can be managed using over-the-counter painkillers. You should be able to get back to your everyday life in no time after the procedure. The comfort is partly because they typically need to make only a tiny incision in the gums. Also, the absence of nerve endings in bone means that the procedure can be performed with minimal discomfort.

Of course, you may experience some soreness right after the procedure, but the discomfort should subside fast. Make an appointment for a follow-up exam with our office if the pain worsens. 

What Can I Do to Help With Recovery After Getting a Dental Implant in Tucson, Arizona?

Over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication or medication your doctor prescribes can relieve pain and swelling. There are some other things you can do at home to aid recovery. It might help to ice the area of your face near which we did the treatment. Also, take it easy at home for at least a few days to aid recovery. 

What Foods Can I Consume While Healing?

After any placement procedure, most patients should wait at least an hour before eating. You can eat something creamy, like ice cream or yogurt. If you can, avoid using a straw when drinking, and stay away from hot beverages.

You can eventually start trying firmer meals. Use your best judgment to ensure the slightest discomfort and prevent any sickness.

How To Take The Best Care of Your Dental Implants

If you take proper care of your implants, they will last you longer. Maintain a routine for cleaning and dental examinations. Though implant crowns don’t develop cavities, this doesn’t mean you should not brush and floss around them as you do with your natural teeth. Keep your mouth clean, especially where the implant and gums are.

Contact Us Today to Get Started

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about our quality dental services or if you’d like to schedule a consultation. 

We can’t wait to see you and work on a beautiful smile that you will love!