Need New Teeth? Discover the Dental Implant Difference

Caring for dental implants after surgery promotes healing and ensures long-term success. Immediately following the procedure, you should avoid disturbing the surgical area, especially during the first 24 hours, to prevent bleeding and irritation. For the first few days, it’s recommended to start with soft foods like yogurt, soups, and smoothies, gradually reintroducing firmer foods as healing progresses.

Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection around the implant site. Rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution several times daily, especially after meals, to keep the area clean and reduce swelling. Avoid using regular mouthwash or brushing directly over the implant site until cleared by your dentist. Use soft-bristled and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean other teeth without disturbing the implant.

Once healing is complete, care for your dental implants like natural teeth by brushing twice daily and flossing daily. Your dentist may also recommend specific cleaning tools like an interdental brush to reach tight spaces around the implant. Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor your implants and address any issues early, ensuring the longevity and health of your new smile.

To replace one tooth, your best option is a single implant using a dental crown as your restoration. Multiple missing teeth in a row can be replaced with an implant bridge, using two or three implants for support. Dr. Childers recommends implant dentures using all-on-4 implant treatment for full mouth restoration. With all-on-4, you only need four implants to support an entire arch of upper or lower teeth to make this treatment more feasible.  

Traditional dentures sit on your gums and are only supported by suction and adhesives. Implant restorations are anchored by implant tooth roots integrated with your jawbone. This gives your new teeth the same stability as real teeth. You can talk, laugh, and eat more easily, knowing your teeth will never disappear. Traditional bridges need the support of healthy teeth, which have to be modified for this treatment. Implants function on their own, leaving healthy teeth whole and intact. Implants also prevent bone loss by stimulating your jawbone after losing natural teeth – something traditional bridges and dentures can’t do.

Implant placement can be completed in one day. The healing process, however, can take four to six months. During your initial consultation, Dr. Childers can give you a tentative timetable for completing your treatment.

With proper oral care, titanium implants can last 30 or more years. Quality restorations can last up to 20 years before needing an upgrade.