7 Ways Dental Implants Near Me Lead to Lasting Results

You’re out with friends, scanning the dinner menu. Are you subconsciously (or even consciously) looking for the “safe” options? The ones that won’t need a lot of chewing? A missing tooth can dictate your choices. And the worst part is that it steals the joy from what used to be your favorite meals. Dr. Andy Stein at Stein Family Dentistry has a solution for you: dental implants. 

Let’s learn more about what you can expect from the process of dental implants:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

It all starts with a conversation to determine if dental implants are the best option for you. Dr. Stein uses advanced 3D scans to get a detailed look at your jawbone. At this appointment, you can ask questions and discuss concerns you have with him. The team will also ensure you’re completely informed throughout your entire treatment planning process.

2. Preparing for the Surgery

Dental implants need a solid foundation to last. If a tooth has been missing for a while, you may have lost some jawbone mass. If so, we can do bone grafting to build up your jawbone. Other pre-procedures will also be done at this time, such as removing teeth that can’t be saved.

3. The Implant Surgery Process

First, our team is going to make sure you’re completely comfortable, both before, during, and after the procedure. Dr. Stein uses anesthetics and offers sedation, so you’re relaxed and pain-free. He places a small titanium post into the jawbone. This will be your new tooth root.

4. Post-Recovery: Healing and Osseointegration

Once it’s done, you’ll need 3 – 6 months to heal. During this time, osseointegration happens. This is where your jawbone naturally fuses with the titanium post. This bonding process will give you the strong, permanent foundation you need for your dental implant.

5. Placing the Abutment

Once the implant is healed and integrated, Dr. Stein attaches a small connector called an abutment. This sits at the gum line and acts as the secure base for your new tooth.

6. Your Finished Tooth: The Porcelain Crown

Precise digital scans are used to craft a beautiful custom crown. And it will look nearly identical to your real teeth. The same color, size, and shape. Dr. Stein secures your crown to the abutment, a complete smile with a tooth that looks and feels totally natural.

7. Post-Surgery Care and Maintenance for Dental Implants Near Me in South Hill, WA

It’s easy to take care of a dental implant. Keep in mind that it acts just like a natural tooth with an extra benefit: it’s made with materials that don’t decay. To keep it lasting a lifetime, Dr. Stein recommends these things:

• Brushing and flossing every day.
• Checkups and cleanings at Stein Family Dentistry every six months.
• Avoid biting down on extremely hard food (think hard candy).
• Don’t use your teeth as tools.
• Follow all specific instructions from Dr. Stein and the team.

Dr. Stein serves the smiles of the South Hill community and other nearby areas. Ready to turn that gap in your smile into a distant memory? Call (509) 463-1770 to get started.

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