The Dental Implant Process in Petoskey & Traverse City, MI
A Comprehensive and Easy-To-Read Guide on Implant Placement
If you are considering dental implants as a solution for missing or damaged teeth, you’re taking a big step towards restoring your smile and improving your oral health. At Northwood Dental, Dr. Klym is an experienced and trusted dental professional who provides dental implant placement services to patients in Petoskey & Traverse City, MI. With a passion for helping patients achieve optimal oral health, Dr. Klym is dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and relaxed environment.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. They’re an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, or any other reasons. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, giving you the confidence to smile and eat without fear of embarrassment or discomfort.
Understanding the Benefits of Dental Implant Placement
Dental implant placement is a highly effective solution for missing teeth and offers many benefits. Here are some of the reasons why dental implant placement is such a popular choice among patients at Northwood Dental:
- Short Recovery Time. Although the healing process after dental implant placement can take several months, most patients can return to normal activities with minimal discomfort a few days after placement.
- Customizable. The restorations used for dental implants can be tailored to match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth, ensuring a natural-looking and functional result.
- Long-Lasting Results. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Unlike traditional dentures, implants won’t slip or shift and won’t require frequent replacement.
Placing Your Implant Posts
The dental implant placement procedure is a multi-step process that typically takes place over several months.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Klym will evaluate your oral health, including an examination of your gums and jawbone. This will help determine if dental implants are the right solution for you and what type of implant is best suited for your individual needs. Our dentist will also ask about your preference for dental sedation during your procedure.
Step 2: Treatment Preparation
To ensure the best outcome for your dental implant placement procedure, it is important to prepare beforehand. Discuss any medical conditions or medications with Dr. Klym, arrange for transportation to and from the appointment, avoid smoking and alcohol for a few days before the procedure, and plan for a few days of rest after the procedure. Our implant dentist will also let you know about any additional steps you should take before your placement at your initial appointment.
Step 3: Implant Placement Procedure
During the implant placement procedure, Dr. Klym will make small incisions into your gums to surgically place the implant into your jawbone. This step is usually done under local anesthesia or sedation, depending on your comfort level and the extent of the procedure.
Step 4: Healing and Integration
After implant placement, your jawbone will need to heal and integrate with the implant. This process, known as osseointegration, typically takes several months. During this time, you will be instructed on proper postoperative care to ensure a successful healing process.
Step 5: Dental Restoration
Once the implant fully integrates with your jawbone, Dr. Klym will place the permanent dental restoration. This will be a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture designed to match your existing teeth and provide a natural appearance.
