A dental implant is a very effective restorative treatment for individuals who have lost a tooth or teeth. If you are based in Richmond, there are dental practices who are dedicated in providing long-term solutions for patients who would like to restore their smile. So if you are considering dental implants, but would like to glean more information about the dental procedure, by booking a consultation at a dental practice, you will be able to make a more informed decision as to whether you would benefit from Sheen Dental Implants Richmond.
What to expect at an initial consultation for dental implants
The purpose of having a consultation prior to dental implant treatment or any dental treatment is to determine whether an individual is not only suitable for the treatment, but to give the dentist a chance to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient’s teeth.
You will be asked to complete both a dental and medical history questionnaire and digital photographs, X rays and impressions may also be taken alongside a detailed examination. This will also give the dentist an opportunity to find out more about your lifestyle and you will also have the chance to ask any questions you may have about the treatment and voice any concerns you may harbour.
If the dentist agrees that having a dental implant is the most suitable treatment for you, a treatment plan will be written specifically focusing on your individual needs and desired outcome. In addition to this, the treatment plan will also detail important factors such as the cost and different implant treatment options.
It is important to note that every patient’s situation is different and in some cases, there may be initial preparatory work that needs to be carried out before commencing the dental implant treatment.
Dental implants for multiple teeth
If you unfortunately have two or more missing teeth in a row, you do have the option to have an implant retained bridge. For this treatment, the first appointment will be when the implants are placed in the gap where the missing teeth should be. Whilst the implants fuse to the bone, a temporary restoration will be placed to fill the gap. The process of the implants fusing with the bone is called osseointegration and this varies from patient to patient depending on their bone condition. On average this process can take between two to six months. Once this has happened, the final teeth are then fitted onto the implants between three to nine months after the implant placement.
How to maintain dental implants
In order to ensure your dental implants last as long as possible, it is important to maintain a good oral health regime and to treat your dental implants as if they were your natural teeth. By establishing good maintenance you will ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy and also free from any tooth decay or plaque build-up which can lead to gum disease if not treated early. Following your treatment you will be given advice on how to best look after your teeth to make certain that you get the most out of your implants.
