WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
To replace a missing tooth or teeth with a long-lasting restoration, board-certified family dentist Dr. Brian Call is pleased to offer implant dentistry to his patients throughout Farmington, UT and the Davis County community with multiple top of the line dental implant systems including Straumann®, NobelActive®, Megagen®, and Astra®. Dental implants utilize metal posts that are surgically placed into the gums and jawbone to act like a tooth root. One or more posts may be connected to a crown, bridge, or denture to produce a beautiful restoration that can be cleaned just like your real teeth. When you need a solution to address a missing tooth or teeth, schedule an appointment to learn more about implant dentistry at Oakridge Dental. Dental implants may help if you are tired of loose restorations or removable dentures. Talk to Dr. Call about your needs and figure out if implants are a good choice for you.
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WHO QUALIFIES FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants can replace one or several lost teeth when they are connected to an implant-supported crown, denture, or bridge. You may prefer implants if you have a dental restoration but are unhappy with the look, comfort, or care required. Implants can be treated just like your regular teeth with daily brushing and flossing. During your consultation, Dr. Call will evaluate the health of your jawbone and gums to decide if you are a good candidate for implant dentistry. In some cases, a bone or gum graft surgery may be needed prior to implant surgery to strengthen these vital oral structures. You may not be a candidate for dental implants if you use tobacco products, are pregnant, or are being treated for another issue (like periodontal disease).
HOW ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS PLACED?
To prepare for your dental implants, you may need to have damaged teeth extracted, as well as gum or bone grafts. As soon as your mouth is in good enough condition to hold the dental implant, local anesthesia will be administered to the necessary areas to numb your mouth. Other sedation options may be considered to keep you relaxed throughout the process. Dr. Call will start by making a surgical incision into your gums and placing the titanium post in the jawbone. The incision will be closed with part of the post visible above the gums. This process will be repeated if multiple posts are required. While the dental implant integrates into the bone and gum over the next few months, a temporary restoration will be worn to protect the post. Once the dental implant has healed sufficiently and fully integrated with your bone and gums, your permanent restoration (either a bridge, crown, or denture) can be connected to the post and adjusted for a proper fit.
Recovery
There may be some temporary swelling in your gums and lower face, as well as bruising, discomfort, and some minor bleeding after your implant surgery. Dr. Call will go over what you can expect and describe any abnormalities you may experience. If any abnormal symptoms begin to manifest, please get in touch with our office immediately. After your implants have integrated and your restoration has been attached, you should continue to maintain a good at-home oral care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash. You should also continue to schedule annual exams and biannual cleanings at Oakridge Dental so Dr. Call can evaluate your oral health. During these visits, he will let you know if your implants or restorations need to be adjusted, repaired, or replaced.
SINGLE TOOTH OR FULL-MOUTH RESTORATIONS
If you have a tooth that can no longer function properly, or if you have a missing or knocked-out tooth for any reason, a dental implant can replicate the appearance and performance of a natural tooth. In some cases, dental implants can provide a healthy and simple alternative to bridgework or dentures that are not meeting your needs. Board-certified dentist Dr. Brian Call is pleased to offer this long-lasting option to patients in Farmington, UT and its neighboring cities. Contact Oakridge Dental to learn more about your options for tooth restoration.