Have you suffered from tooth loss as a result of injury or decay? Are you struggling with the long-term consequences of tooth decay? Have you been forced to give up many of the foods you love? Are missing teeth robbing you of your confidence and affecting your quality of life?If so, then you should come to see our professionals at Willamette Valley Periodontics about dental implants . Dental implants are a great looking restoration option that will provide you with years of bright smiles. The first step on your journey to dental implants is to find out if you are a candidate.
How Is Candidacy Determined?
Getting your dental implants starts with a consultation with our team. If you are not an established patient, our professionals will need to conduct a thorough oral exam and cleaning. They will also need to get up to date digital x-rays and other advanced images of your oral cavity. These images will be important when it comes time to assess the health of your jawbone and to determine the exact placement location for your implant posts.
In addition, our professionals will need to review your entire medical history. Having pre-existing medical conditions will not immediately eliminate you from getting implants, but our team will need to account for these conditions when planning your restoration.
Will I Need a Bone Graft?
Our team will not know if you need a bone graft until after we review the x-rays of your jaw. If your jaw is thin or weak in an area where a post is going to be placed, then you will likely need to have a bone graft. Our professionals will discuss the results of your assessment with you and plan your graft if needed.
Many patients require a bone graft, so there is no reason for concern if our team determines that you need one. During the grafting procedure, our professionals will simply make a small incision in your gum line and attach small fragments of bone to your jaw in the needed locations. We will then suture the incision closed.
The recovery from a bone graft is relatively quick and virtually painless. However, it will take several months for the grafted material to fuse to your bone. Our professionals will not be able to move forward with the next step of your restoration until this occurs.
How Long Will It Take?
If our team confirms that you are a good candidate for dental implants, then they can start the process of having your implants made. Once this begins, you can expect the entire process to take at least a few months. If you need a bone graft, getting your implants can take a year or possibly even longer.
Dental Implant Surgery in McMinnville OR
Contact our professionals at Willamette Valley Periodontics if you are ready to learn more about dental implants and find out if you are a candidate. Scheduling your appointment is as easy as calling our office at (971) 261-1926 and speaking to one of our team members.
