Beyond Aesthetics: The Functional Advantages of Dental Implants

At 222 Main Street Dental of Milford, we take pride in our dental implant services, which are regarded as the top choice for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, creating a reliable base for replacement teeth that closely resemble, in both appearance and function, natural teeth. These implants, made of titanium or ceramic, act as durable anchors akin to artificial roots, ensuring a solid foundation for either fixed or removable replacement teeth.

Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures

• Enhanced Chewing Ability: Unlike dentures that may shift during meals, causing discomfort and difficulty chewing, dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone. This stability allows you to enjoy your favorite foods confidently and without pain.
• Improved Speech Clarity: Dentures slipping in your mouth can lead to speech difficulties, such as stammering or slurring. Dental implants provide a stable foundation, allowing you to speak naturally and clearly.
• Increased Comfort: Dentures rely on the shape of your gums, which can change over time, leading to looseness and discomfort. Dentists often recommend adjustments or replacement every 5-8 years due to these changes. In contrast, implants fuse with your jawbone, offering greater comfort and stability without the risk of sliding.
• Enhanced Oral Health: Ill-fitting dentures can cause gum irritation and increase the risk of infections due to trapped bacteria. Dental implants allow for easier access between teeth, facilitating proper flossing and reducing the risk of gum issues. Unlike tooth-supported bridges that may require adjacent teeth to be altered, implants preserve surrounding teeth and promote long-term oral health.
• Improved Aesthetics: The crown on a dental implant is meticulously designed to resemble natural teeth, restoring your smile and boosting self-confidence. With regular dental care, implants can maintain their appearance and function for a lifetime.
• Prevention of Bone Loss: Natural tooth roots provide essential stimulation to the jawbone, similar to a load-bearing wall in a house. When teeth are extracted without replacement, jawbone deterioration can occur, altering facial contours. Dental implants, acting as artificial tooth roots, preserve the jawbone structure and prevent bone loss over time.

Prior to initiating treatment, it is essential to undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure a smooth recovery post-surgery. This typically includes a comprehensive dental assessment, including the creation of dental models based on X-ray images of your teeth and jaw.

It's important to provide your dentist with your complete medical history, including all medications and supplements you are currently taking. If you are using blood thinners, inform your dentist as adjustments may be required. Your dentist will collaborate with your primary care physician to determine if any medications need to be temporarily halted before the surgery. Never discontinue medications without consulting both your dentist and physician. 

Follow the prescribed medications provided by your dentist. Individuals with specific conditions or orthopedic implants, such as a hip replacement, might need antibiotics before surgery to prevent infections. Make transportation arrangements for after your procedure, especially if oral conscious sedation or IV sedation will be used. Having a trusted friend or family member available to accompany you home is necessary.

What to Expect During Your Dental Implant Procedure

• Initial Consultation: During your first visit, we will carefully assess your oral health and discuss your treatment objectives. If you have any questions about the procedure, feel free to ask! Together, we will develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs.
• Preparation: If necessary, we will address any damaged teeth and ensure that your jawbone is prepared for the implants. In some cases, bone grafting may be required to provide a sturdy foundation for the implants. Rest assured, we will meticulously prepare your mouth with precision and care.
• Implant Placement: Our experienced dentists will expertly place the dental implants into your jawbone using advanced techniques and technology. Small incisions will be made in your gums, and the implant posts will be gently inserted. Over time, these implants will fuse with your bone, establishing a stable base for your new teeth.
• Healing and Integration: Following the implant placement, your gums will require time to heal, and the implants will gradually integrate with your jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, typically takes a few months. We may provide temporary restorations to ensure your comfort and confidence during this period.
• Final Restoration: Once the implants have fully integrated, we will attach custom-made dental crowns or prosthetics to the implant posts. These restorations are meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, resulting in a smile that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Follow-Up Care: You will receive detailed instructions on how to care for your new dental implants to maintain their health and durability for years to come. Additionally, we will schedule regular check-ups to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.

The success rate of dental implants can vary based on individual health and oral hygiene practices. However, for those with good overall health and diligent dental care habits, implants typically have a success rate ranging from 90% to 95%.

Managing Pain After Dental Implant Surgery

Expect some discomfort as dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure. However, several studies suggest that most patients experience less discomfort and swelling during and after dental implant surgery compared to tooth extraction.

Following the surgery, you can typically alleviate pain and swelling with over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Motrin. Recovery times can vary, but most patients can return to their regular activities within three days. If swelling and soreness persist, it's important to consult your surgeon.

During the recovery phase, consider sticking to soft foods to help ease discomfort as your gums heal. Complete healing of your jawbone around the implant may take several months. Regular follow-up appointments with both your surgeon and dentist are crucial to monitor progress and ensure the success of your dental implants.

Choosing the Right Provider for Dental Implants

Selecting the right provider is essential for a successful dental implant treatment. At 222 Main Street Dental of Milford, we are not only your trusted partner in oral health but also your expert in dental implant services. With our convenient location in Milford, MA, accessing top-notch dental implant services has never been more convenient.