After Implant Placement

What Can I Use For Teeth While The Implants Heal?

What Are The Potential Problems?

Most patients do not experience  significant post-operative discomfort after implant placement. Antibiotics and pain medication will be prescribed for you to make your recovery as easy as possible. Rarely, a post-operative infection might develop that requires additional antibiotic treatment. Even though great care is taken to place the implant precisely, occasionally adjacent teeth are injured in the placement process. Dr. Davis minimizes the chance that the nerve in the lower jaw, which provides sensation to your lower lip and chin, may be injured during placement by using a special CT scan x-ray. If necessary in your case, this scan will be taken as part of your treatment planning prior to surgery. The human body is fantastic and almost all implants heal perfectly. However, not all implants bond with the bone. The benefits and the risks of treatment will be discussed with you at the time of your consultation as part of your informed consent paperwork.

How Long Will The Implants Last?

Implants can last indefinitely. Research studies show a success rate of greater than 95 percent which compares favorably with other areas in the body that receive implant replacement such as hips or knees. The first implants Dr. Davis placed in 1987 are still healthy in full function. If one of your dental implants either doesn’t heal properly or loosens, you may need to have it removed. After the site is grafted and heals or on occasion at the same time of removal, another implant usually can be placed.

When Are The Replacement Teeth Attached To The Implant?

The replacement teeth are usually attached to the implant when adequate healing has occurred and your jawbone is firmly fused to the implant. Depending on a variety of factors, it may be possible to begin this phase of your treatment shortly after implant placement. We will review with you the most appropriate treatment sequence and timing for your particular situation.

Your general dentist will work with his laboratory to fabricate your teeth. Your appointments are considered more comfortable and more pleasant than when caps are made on natural teeth. Frequently, this process can be performed without local anesthesia.

Your restorative treatment begins with specialized impressions that allows his lab to produce a replica of your mouth and implants. He will also make “bite” records so that he sees the relationship of your upper and lower jaws. With this information, your dentist and his dental lab will provide the support posts and caps for you.

The number of appointments and the amount of time required for each appointment is different for each patient. No two cases are exactly the same and regardless of the number of teeth replaced; the work must be completed with great precision and attention to detail. If you are having only a few teeth replaced, as few as three short appointments may be required. Between appointments, the lab will need time to make your replacement teeth. It is most beneficial that you keep all of your scheduled appointments.

If your final restoration is a removable tooth replacement supported by implants, you may need some minor adjustments over the first months. Your dentist will provide treatment for you during this period, and every effort will be made to ensure you have comfortable replacement teeth.

You will receive a reasonable estimate of the time required for your implant reconstruction and the fees from Dr. Davis and your restoring dentist before treatment begins. On a rare occasion a situation may delay the estimated time to complete your treatment.

How Do I Clean My New Teeth?

As with natural teeth, it is important that you clean implant-supported restorations regularly with toothbrushes, floss and any other recommended aids. You should also visit your dentist several times each year for hygiene and maintenance. As with any tooth replacements, your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear and may eventually  need repair and adjustments.

Your Dental Team

Dr. Davis is your dental implant surgeon working as a team member with your general restorative dentist to plan your care and place your implants. The dental laboratory works under the direction of your dentist in this team to create the replacement teeth for you. 

How Much Does All Of This Cost?

Before treatment begins, every effort will be made to give you an accurate estimate of all the expenses involved in placing the implants and making your replacement teeth.  There is an initial charge for the diagnostic examinations, including study models, x-rays, and any special diagnostic items your care requires. Each doctor will prepare an estimate for the treatment he will provide for you prior to starting treatment: Dr. Davis will explain his treatments and fees as will your general dentist.

We will try to assist you in estimating what your actual fees. Some insurance companies provide limited or no coverage for dental implant reconstruction.

Each patient is unique, and it is not possible to discuss here every option and every contingency for treatment outcome. This site is intended to help you understand the general treatment options available to you. If your specific treatment options are not clear, please contact us. We will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental care.