If you’re considering implant-supported dentures in Northeast Philadelphia, it’s essential to understand the process to ensure you’re well-prepared. Implant dentures, unlike conventional alternatives, rest on your jawbone to offer superior stability and comfort.

The implants are typically placed in the mouth’s front portion, where the bone is more robust. The entire process generally involves multiple stages and can take several months, depending on your needs. Here’s a thorough overview of the steps involved in receiving implant-supported dentures.

Before Your Dental Implant Surgery

1) Comprehensive Examination

The process commences with a thorough examination of your oral health. Your dentist will evaluate your medical reports, X-rays, or CT scans and determine your suitability for the procedure. Being transparent about your health is crucial since some medical conditions may contraindicate implant placement.

2) Preparatory Procedures

If you lack sufficient bone density in specific areas, your dentist may recommend bone grafting or augmentation to ensure the implants can be securely placed. These procedures are separate from the implant surgery and will add extra time and cost to your treatment plan.

3) Anesthesia Options

Most dental implant surgeries can be performed with a local anesthetic, but sedation is an option if you’re anxious or prefer to be unaware during the procedure. If sedation is right, discuss this with your dentist early, as it requires advanced planning.

4) Understanding Risks

While implant-supported dentures have a high success rate of around 95%, outcomes are not guaranteed. Factors like healing ability and overall health can impact the procedure’s success. It’s essential to come to the process with practical expectations and an understanding of possible risks.

During the Implant Procedure

1) Health Assessment and Preparation

Before the process begins, blood pressure and heart rate will be checked. If irregularities are detected, your dentist may postpone the procedure. You’ll also receive detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.

2) Administering Anesthesia

Your dentist will administer local anesthesia, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure. If sedation were planned, it would be initiated to keep you relaxed throughout.

3) Implant Placement

The method commences with your dentist making an incision in the gum tissue to unveil the jawbone. For endosteal implants, a cover screw is placed over the implant to rescue it during the healing phase.

4) Closing the Tissue

Once the implants are in place, the gums are sutured and closed over the implant area. These stitches help protect the site while it heals and integrates with the surrounding bone, a process called osseointegration.

Tips for Post-Surgery Recovery

Recovery from implant surgery is straightforward, but following your dentist’s guidelines is vital to ensure optimal healing. Here are some essential tips:

• Manage Swelling: For the first 24 hours, apply ice packs to the surgical site to calm the impact of implanting (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off).
• Control Discomfort: Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
• Keep the Area Clean: Rinse with warm salt water 4-5 times daily starting 24 hours after surgery.
• Monitor for Issues: If you experience excessive swelling, persistent numbness, or unmanageable pain, contact your dentist immediately.

Avoid putting pressure on the place during this period as the first two weeks are critical for recovering and integrating the implants. 

Conclusion

Getting implant-supported dentures in Northeast Philadelphia is a transformative process that provides a permanent and reliable solution for missing teeth. Although the journey involves multiple steps and months of commitment, the results are worth the effort. These dentures offer stability, comfort, and aesthetics, improving oral health and confidence.

If you’re ready to explore implant-supported dentures, consult a qualified dentist for a personalized evaluation. They’ll guide you through the process, address your problems, and help you take the foremost step toward a healthier, brighter smile.