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Get to Know the Dental Implant Process
Dental implants can change your life — everything from eating to speaking and socializing can improve when you fill the gaps in your smile. But before you can smile with pride, there are several steps our implant experts must take to prepare your mouth for a successful implant procedure. Dr. Reger and our dental team take every measure we can to make the dental implant process comfortable for you.
Read our guide below to learn more about the dental implant process at Reger Family Dental.
Step 1: Your Consultation with Dr. Reger
You’ll begin your three- to nine-month journey to a stunning smile with a consultation at our San Antonio office. There, a member of our expert team will meticulously clean your teeth before Dr. Reger provides a thorough examination of your smile. He’ll address any necessary oral health problems at this time and assess your bone structure using our advanced dental technology.
In some cases, Dr. Reger may recommend a supplemental procedure for your dental implants. These treatments strengthen the density of your jawbone, providing a stronger foundation for your implants. We’ll complete these procedures in separate appointments scheduled as necessary.
Step 2: Placing Your Dental Implants
Although the dental implant process may vary depending on your chosen restorative solution, the placement will generally follow the same steps. We’ll begin by providing another professional cleaning to eliminate any harmful bacteria from your mouth. Dr. Reger will then administer a local anesthetic to the area to eliminate any discomfort, along with one of our dental sedation options if you choose.
Once we’ve ensured your comfort and relaxation, Dr. Reger will surgically place your titanium dental implant to your jawbone. The titanium implant stimulates your jawbone, triggering a process called osseointegration. This process involves your restoration bonding directly with your jawbone to mimic the natural tooth roots.
In the months following your implant placement, you’ll wear temporary dental crowns that allow your gums to heal. Your jawbone will form a strong connection with your crown to make it the strongest restorative solution available. Our team will give you a set of healing instructions to follow in the meantime.
Step 3: Finalizing Your Restorations
We’ll contact you in the final months of your healing process to determine when we can attach your stunning, personalized dental crowns. These natural-looking restorations are created with durable porcelain that blends seamlessly into your smile. Our dentist will use a connector called an abutment to attach your crown to your titanium implant.
Following your crown placement, you’ll leave our office with a stunning smile that you’ll feel proud to share with your friends and family. While your gums may be tender after receiving your crowns, you should have full functionality of your new teeth in a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do dental implants work?
How long does it take to get dental implants?
How long do dental implants last?
Does the dental implant procedure hurt?
How do I take care of my dental implants?
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants consist of a titanium implant fixture that attaches directly to your jawbone with a natural-looking crown attached. Once fully healed, implants look, feel, and function just like real teeth.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
Placement of dental implants usually takes from three to six months on average. However, it is important for patients to note that treatment times can vary depending on dental conditions, overall patient health, and if supplemental procedures are needed.
Additional healing times may be necessary if patients get multiple implants or need supplemental treatments like bone or tissue grafting.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are one of the most durable tooth replacement treatments. When properly placed and taken care of, dental implants can last many decades longer than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges.
Does the dental implant procedure hurt?
We’ll provide you with a local anesthetic to help alleviate any pain or discomfort during your dental implant procedure. Any pain after the procedure can usually be prevented with over-the-counter pain medications.
How do I take care of my dental implants?
One of the best parts about dental implants is that they typically require no extra care besides normal brushing and regular flossing. Additionally, dental implants can be cleaned and examined while you are visiting your dentist for regular check-ups.
Patients are also encouraged to examine the dental implant area regularly for any signs of infection or irregularities. Anything unusual or painful should be reported to your doctor right away.
Explore the Dental Implant Process at Reger Family Dental
Our San Antonio dental team is proud to create innovative implant solutions that last. We work hard to make the dental implant process as smooth as possible for our patients. If you’re looking for the highest quality restorative solution, look no further than dental implants with Dr. Reger.
Contact us today at (210) 960-1300 to learn more about the dental implant process with our San Antonio restorative dentist.