Replacing missing teeth is fundamental to your emotional well-being and oral health.
In this installment of the ultimate guide, we'll explore more about dental implants, including costs and aftercare. We will also answer some of your frequently asked questions.
And remember, dentists rely on the latest dental implant technology to deliver precise and stunning results, which is why we encourage everyone with missing teeth to arrange a consultation.
We invite our patients and potential patients to continue reading to learn more about dental implants in Bloomington, IN.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implant Aftercare
In our previous installment—Ultimate Guide to Dental Implants (Part I)—we explored why dental implants are a dentist and patient favorite and how they can improve oral health. We also outlined the process for getting dental implants.
This time, we want to discuss what to do after implant placement by answering your frequently asked questions.
What happens after dental implant placement?
After the dentist places your implants—also called artificial tooth roots—there is a healing period. It can take a few months for the new tooth roots to integrate into the bone properly. Following integration, we cap your implant with a restoration tooth or prosthetic. This can be a single dental implant or a retained denture.
Is dental implant integration painful?
Dental implant integration is not painful because it is gradual. The titanium post slowly fuses with the bone, so you will not feel pain. But as the weeks go by, the bone and titanium posts are quietly building the best foundation for your replacement tooth or prosthetic.
Will I have pain after the anesthesia wears off?
You may notice mild pain and swelling, but many patients compare the discomfort to what is experienced following less invasive treatments like fillings. An over-the-counter pain reliever is all you'll need for the first few days.
What should I do immediately after implant placement?
- You may notice mild bleeding, which usually clears up within 24 hours. We recommend gently biting on sterile gauze to help with this occasional symptom.
- Avoid powerful spitting, rinsing, or pronounced chewing for the first few days. You may want to limit your diet to soft foods at first.
- You may notice mild swelling for a few days; medications like Ibuprofen typically help. You can also use an ice pack periodically.
- Keep your mouth clean but be extra gentle near the implant site. You can also rinse a few times daily.
- Avoid smoking for a few days because it can disrupt healing and lead to complications.
Your dentist may provide more customized aftercare instructions based on your unique case, but at-home care is always simple and designed to accelerate your healing. And if you have questions during your recovery, never hesitate to contact our dental team.
My dental implants are complete. How do I care for them?
For single dental implants, you need only brush and floss them along with your natural teeth. And it would be best to brush and floss after every meal or at least twice daily for best results.
We recommend using non-abrasive toothpaste, preferably denture paste, to clean the prosthetic teeth for implant-supported prosthetics. You can also use a water pick—one part mouth rinse to two parts water—to clear debris.
A proxy brush and super floss are ideal for cleaning near the gumline. A tuft brush is good for the crevice between the denture and gum.
Your dentist will explain the best way to care for your prosthetic following implant placement.
And no matter whether you have a single implant or a fully fixed prosthetic, it's crucial to visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Failure to implement an excellent oral care routine and home and skipping dental visits leaves you vulnerable to gum disease and infections. This is true even if you don't have dental implants.
Gum disease can cause additional tooth loss and implant failure. Additionally, it can lead to physical health complications involving multiple body systems like the heart and lungs. Studies even link gum disease to Alzheimer's, autoimmune conditions, and pregnancy complications.
And if you notice oral health changes, it's vital to contact your dental implant dentist in Bloomington, IN.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implant Costs
Dental implant costs vary for multiple reasons. Let's explore a few.
How much will my dental implants cost?
Dental implant costs vary depending on the number of implants, the complexity of treatment, and whether you're doing singles or prosthetics.
Sometimes, you need pretreatments to be a suitable candidate for dental implants. For example, your dentist may talk to you about bone grafting if your jawbone is not dense enough to handle the titanium tooth root. Likewise, your dentist may discuss sinus lift surgery if your sinus is too close to an upper-implant site.
We must also treat any oral health conditions uncovered during your initial consultation. And if you're considering implant-supported dentures in Bloomington, IN, we must extract any remaining teeth.
Our dental team will break down the costs for you after your consultation.
Can I finance my dental implants?
Drs. David Compton, Matthew Love, and Riley Walker are dedicated to helping you reach your smile goals. So, they are happy to accept CareCredit financing.
CareCredit is a medical and dental credit card offering various financing programs; some are interest-free!
We can help you apply for CareCredit, and it usually takes only a few minutes to learn which programs you qualify for and the amount they will lend.
Will you work with my health savings account?
Yes, we are happy to work with health savings accounts through your job. We can even plan treatment on a timeline that best fits your budget and schedule.
Your Home for Dental Implants in Bloomington, Indiana
If you're considering dental implants and looking for an experienced dental team, we invite you to arrange a consultation with one of our top implant dentists in Bloomington! We also encourage you to call us if you have questions about tooth replacement or our other innovative dental services.
Patients come to Ellettsville Dental Center from all locations, including Ellettsville, Bloomington, Spence, Stinesville, and your neighborhood.