Apr
Tooth loss isn’t something you have to live with. Your Rochester, Michigan, dentist can replace lost teeth permanently with dental implants. Although getting implants is a lengthy procedure, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful smile at the end of your treatment. An evaluation by your dentist, Dr. John Aurelia of John L. Aurelia, D.D.S., PLLC, can determine if you’re a good candidate for implant surgery.
Implant candidates must have good oral and overall health and sufficient bone density to support implants. If you’ve suffered extensive bone loss since losing teeth, you may need pre-implant bone grafting before your procedure. If you’re suitable for implants, we’ll discuss implant options and develop a treatment plan.
1. Anesthesia – Your mouth will be numbed with local anesthesia so you feel no discomfort or pain during your procedure
2. Implant placement – implants are titanium screw-like posts surgically embedded into your jawbone to support replacement teeth. Dr. Aurelia and Khoury will refer you to an implant specialist for this procedure. The specialist will make an incision in your gum to get to your jawbone, drill a hole in the bone, insert the implant, and stitch your gum close so it can heal
3. Recovery from surgery – You may experience minor bruising, bleeding, swelling, or pain after implant surgery. These symptoms should subside within a few days. OTC medication can help relieve inflammation and pain. By following your implant specialist’s post-op instructions, you should recover quickly
4. Osseointegration – To become a firm foundation for replacement teeth, implants need to fuse with your bone system, a process that can take up to six months to complete. We can provide you with temporary restorations during this interim period
5. Abutment and Restoration – Once the implant has healed, we will attach an abutment to hold your restoration and, lastly, your replacement teeth, i.e., dental crown, implant bridge, or implant-supported dentures, depending on your need. With the support of implants, your restorations will have the look, feel, and function of natural teeth to complete your smile beautifully
To schedule a consultation for implant treatment, contact Dr. John Aurelia in Rochester, MI, at (248) 243-6044.