Do you have one or more lost or missing teeth? Try dental implants. Dental implants restore the natural appearance and function of missing teeth, which is important in Biorejuvenation Dentistry.
A dental implant is a titanium screw that a dentist will surgically place into the upper or lower jaw bone. Then they will cap it off with an abutment and dental crown for a natural look. Dr. Ratti Handa offers dental implants to patients in Acton, MA. Learn about the benefits of this restorative dental service below.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are strong, stable, and durable. They restore your natural chewing and speech. In addition, they can resolve the joint pain or bite problems caused when teeth begin to shift following tooth loss.
Dental implants have the added benefit of being strong enough to support other dental appliances, making bridgework or dentures more secure and comfortable. Unlike other restorative treatments like dentures, a dental implant provides sufficient support.
A dental implant acts as a natural tooth root to withstand biting or chewing without slipping. Because they affix to the jawbone, dental implants are not subject to decay and do not put stress on adjacent teeth.
Treatment with Dental Implants in our Dentist Office
Dr. Handa uses an anesthetic to numb the treated area during the dental implant procedure. When healing, dental implants fuse with bone tissue in the jaw. You may feel some pain after the treatment, and you should call our office if your pain exceeds several days.
With the right dental care, dental implants can last patients for up to 20 years. Schedule regular dental cleanings in our office and brush and floss regularly to help maintain a healthy smile.
Dental Implants FAQs
We welcome you to learn more about dental implants in our Acton, MA dental office with answers to these common questions:
How quick is the dental implant process?
The entire dental implant process can take from 3-9 months. The number of implants you need, the location of the implant, and if you require any other treatments before placement affect how long the process will take. After a dental exam, Dr. Handa will create a treatment plan.
They require a healing time of at least 3 to 6 months after surgery. After that, we will attach an abutment to each implant and a brief healing time will follow. At another appointment, Dr. Handa will attach your dental restoration.
Can dental implants fail?
The success rate of dental implants is about 95%. However, factors like smoking can increase your chance of dental implant failure. Patients who choose dental implants must have good oral hygiene habits.
How should I care for my dental implants after the procedure?
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth gently. You may also rinse your mouth with mouthwash to remove bacteria. Remember to avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few days following your dental implant procedure.
How long should I take off work for dental implants?
Depending on the amount of implants placed patients may need anywhere from two days to a week off of work. This gives patients time to recover after the surgery. The more rest you get after the procedure, the faster you will heal.
How long after dental implant can I eat?
After implants are in place, we advise that patients stick to a soft diet for at least 48 hours. This gives the implants time to settle. Some patients may choose to follow a soft diet longer, or until they are comfortable experimenting with chewing new foods. Once your implants heal fully, you can bite and chew normally.
Is the procedure for dental implants painful?
Before we place a dental implant into the tooth’s root we administer anesthetic to ensure that patients are kept comfortable and pain free throughout the procedure. Patients may experience minor discomfort after anesthetic wears off, but it should only last a few days. An OTC pain reliever can be used to alleviate any tender pain after the implants placement.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on where you live, the number of implants you need, and any additional procedures. Pretreatments like extractions, gum disease treatment, and bone grafting can also add to the cost. Some insurance plans may help cover part of the cost of dental implants.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a long time, often 20 years or more, with proper care. They are designed to be a durable and permanent solution for missing teeth. The implant itself, which is a small post placed into the jawbone, can last a lifetime if you keep up with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. The crown on top of the implant, which looks like a natural tooth, may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, depending on wear and tear.
Request A Dental Exam Today
Do you want to restore one or more teeth with dental implant treatment? Call for dental implants in Acton, MA, at 978.212.3783. You can also request a consultation with Dr. Handa and her team on our website. Dr. Handa and her team are dedicated to providing comfortable care.