Dental Implants
Portland, OR
 The loss of a tooth due to decay or injury can lead to challenges in chewing and the ability to speak comfortably. When you find yourself missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants offer an ideal replacement solution. These implants not only restore functionality but also enhance your overall appearance.
Promptly filling the void left by a lost tooth is crucial for your dental health and alignment. Delaying the replacement may lead to complications. At Portland Emergency Dentist we can help with everything from preventive care up to dental emergencies for adults.
Why Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a permanent answer to your missing teeth. While dentures and other dental tools can be helpful to aid in replacing missing teeth, they are only temporary solutions. They often need to be adjusted, tightened, and maintained, until after several years, they finally need to be replaced. Dental implants can last a lifetime, and have over a 95% success rate, making them the preferred choice of our Emergency Dentist for helping our patients regain their smile.
Dental Implant Process
The process of getting dental implants involves several steps, multiple appointments, and some time. It is important to be aware that in most cases, dental implants are not placed in a single appointment. Timing and how the restoration is performed will vary depending on the type of restoration you are receiving, where the implant is being placed, and how many missing teeth you are receiving.
In general, you will begin with a consultation with our dentist to see if you are a candidate for dental implants. This will involve reviewing your medical and dental history and having a dental exam, and likely x-rays taken to get a full picture of the status of your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
We will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, and if you need any procedures done before the implant process, such as bone grafting or treatment for gum disease. These must be taken care of before dental implant treatment.
When you come in for your dental implant placement, you will be numbed and given an anesthetic, while the implant post is inserted into your jawbone. You will require several months for the implant to fuse with your jawbone.
After this healing period, you will have the abutment placed onto the implant post. It will connect the implant post to the dental crown, which serves as the artificial tooth.
Post Operative Care
It's common to experience some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding in the hours and days immediately after your dental implant surgery. This can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications.
Rest is essential during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous physical activities and get plenty of sleep.
Soft foods and liquids are recommended in the first few days to avoid putting excessive pressure on the surgical site. Gradually transition to a regular diet as advised by our dentist.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
The recovery process following implant surgery can span from several weeks to a few months. During this critical phase, your jawbone gradually forms a strong bond with the implant posts, effectively incorporating them into your oral structure. With time, these posts evolve into replacement roots, serving as permanent supports for your new teeth.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential to oversee your healing progress and confirm the integration of your implants with your jawbone. This careful monitoring ensures the success and stability of your new teeth.
Dental Implant Emergencies
While dental implants are generally a safe and effective long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, certain emergencies may arise that require immediate attention. If any of these occur, it is important that you seek help from our dentist.
Post-Operative Complications
Following the surgical placement of dental implants, some individuals may experience postoperative complications such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or swelling. These issues could indicate an infection or an allergic reaction to the implant material, and they require immediate assessment and treatment.
Loose or Dislodged Implant
If you notice that your dental implant feels loose or has become dislodged, it is crucial to contact your dentist immediately. A loose implant could be a sign of implant failure, bone loss, or an infection around the implant site. Timely intervention can help prevent further complications and increase the chances of salvaging the implant.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory process that affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding a dental implant (also known as implant failure). It is often characterized by symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, and bleeding around the implant area. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss and implant failure. Prompt treatment, which may include deep cleaning, antibiotics, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention, is necessary to preserve the implant and prevent further damage.
Nerve or Tissue Damage
In rare cases, nerve or tissue damage may occur during the placement of dental implants. This can manifest as persistent numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the surrounding areas of the mouth and face. Immediate evaluation by a dental specialist is crucial to assess the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate course of action.
Prosthetic Complications
Issues with the prosthetic components, such as a broken or fractured crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant, may also require urgent attention. Any damage to the prosthetic structure can compromise the functionality and aesthetics of the dental implant, necessitating immediate repair or replacement to restore its integrity.
Allergic Reactions
While rare, some individuals may develop allergic reactions to the materials used in the dental implant. However, most individuals do not have any problems with the titanium typically used in dental implants. Allergic reactions can manifest as oral swelling, rashes, or itching. Seeking prompt dental care is essential to address the allergic response and prevent further complications.
We Are Here for Your Dental Implant Emergencies
In any of these situations, seeking immediate dental care is crucial to prevent further damage, alleviate discomfort, and preserve the integrity of the dental implant. It is essential to maintain regular dental check-ups and follow the post-operative instructions provided by our dentist to minimize the risk of emergencies and ensure the long-term success of your dental implants. |
