Become the Perfect Candidate for Dental Implants
Missing teeth can negatively impact your confidence, self-esteem, and cause serious health issues if left untreated. That’s why Dr. Assi recommends dental implants for patients suffering from an incomplete smile due to trauma or tooth decay.
Dental implants have become a popular tooth replacement solution thanks to the latest advancements in technology. Many patients can have their implants placed right away, but some may require a supplemental procedure due to poor oral health. If your gums aren’t healthy or your jawbone isn’t strong enough, Dr. Assi might recommend a series of supplemental procedures to make you the perfect candidate for dental implants.
Learn about the different treatment options our Coral Springs practice offers to ensure a successful dental implant experience.
Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is recommended for patients with teeth that have been considerably damaged due to either decay or trauma before starting the dental implant process. During this quick and relatively straightforward procedure, Dr. Assi will apply a local anesthetic to the affected area so that you won’t feel any pain or discomfort while your tooth is being removed.
After the extraction is complete, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort a few days afterwards. If you are still experiencing symptoms 1-2 weeks later, contact Dr. Assi immediately as this may be a sign of infection.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a minor surgical procedure that is done to promote healthy bone growth and mass in your jaw. The process involved Dr. Assi removing a small piece of bone tissue from somewhere else on your body — such as your chin, hip, ribs, or wrist — and attaching it to the area of the jawbone where the dental implant will be placed.
Depending on the amount of new bone you may need, the process can take several months to complete until there is enough support for a dental implant. During your recovery period, you may feel some discomfort. Most patients report the pain as being manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses.
By promoting healthy jaw strength, you can have confidence in knowing that your smile will not only look beautiful, but last for multiple years to come.
Gum Grafting
Gum recession can cause more of your teeth to be exposed, increasing sensitivity while also making your smile more vulnerable to infection. This condition can occur if you have gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or if you brush too aggressively.
To reverse this, Dr. Assi can perform a gum graft to restore your smile and provide your dental implant with the proper support it needs to stay secure in your mouth. The procedure itself involved taking a small piece of gum tissue from the palate of your mouth and attaching it to any exposed areas along your teeth. Unlike bone grafting, the growth process with the gums happens fast. You should be healed and ready for dental implants after six weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tooth extraction hurt?
Many patients feel little to no discomfort during the process due to our application of a local anesthetic. As long as an experienced dental professional such as Dr. Assi is conducting your procedure, you’ll only experience feelings of pressure that will subside when the tooth is extracted. Our staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have as well as walk you through the entire procedure.
Do I have to change my diet after a bone graft?
For the first 24 hours after your bone graft procedure, there are some important general dietary rules you should follow in order to promote proper healing of the treated area.
These guidelines include avoiding:
- Overly hot or cold liquids
- Using any types of straws
- Spicy, crunchy, or hard-to-chew foods
Dr. Assi recommends a steady diet of soft foods like yogurt and applesauce the day after your procedure. It’s also best to avoid eating until after the effects of your local anesthetic have worn off; otherwise, you may irritate the surgical site.
Can I get dental implants without supplemental procedures?
Supplemental procedures are only recommended for patients whose oral health does not make them an ideal candidate for the dental implant process. Without the proper bone density or treating your gum recession, this can increase the chance of your implants not staying secured in your smile. Our office can perform the specific procedures you need to have a successful implant treatment.
Will my insurance cover my supplemental procedure?
Many insurance companies will pay for a portion of your supplemental procedure, but some don’t cover preexisting conditions. Therefore, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider for a more in-depth understanding of your coverage and how to maximize your benefits. If you have any questions or concerns about your financial situation, call our office at (954) 228-8509, and we’ll be more than happy to help.
We’ll Make You Ready for Dental Implants
Elevate your smile by taking the next steps to receiving dental implants. Learn whether your smile is the perfect candidate for the procedure by scheduling a consultation with the experienced Dr. Assi. You can contact Alpha Dental Practice by calling (954) 228-8509 or through our website by filling out a contact form. You deserve to have a smile that you love.