Sometimes, our natural teeth can fail us – there are numerous reasons why one might end up losing a tooth. Luckily, there is a dental procedure that can fix the issue. Getting the best dental implants in Charlotte, NC, can be a life-changing experience for those who struggle with their confidence due to missing teeth. Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, can help you transform your smile thanks to this excellent dental service.
What Are Dental Implants, and Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Them?
Dental implants are among the most common tooth replacement options. Essentially, a dental implant is a prosthetic that’s placed in your jaw – it imitates a tooth root and interfaces with the bone, acting as an anchor for the artificial tooth that will be attached to it. The process of getting dental implants can take several months, and healing takes time as well. However, when everything is healed correctly, your new tooth can serve you for a lifetime – if you take care of it properly.
Are you a good candidate for a dental implant procedure performed by your dentist in Charlotte, NC? When you visit the Aspire Dental Wellness dental clinic in SouthPark, our Dr. Sladjana Bjelac will examine you to determine whether you’d be a good candidate or not. However, there are certain conditions that usually indicate a patient is a good candidate for this type of dental treatment:
- Missing teeth as a result of tooth decay,
- Gum disease,
- Fracture of the tooth root,
- Congenitally missing teeth (missing at birth).
To be a good candidate, it’s important that you maintain proper oral hygiene and that your jawbone is fully developed. Those who have certain chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes or are heavy smokers might not be able to get this surgical procedure. The same goes for patients who are on certain medications like blood thinners.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Getting Dental Implants?
Since getting dental implants requires a surgical procedure, we can’t say it’s a treatment without any risks. However, dental implants carry quite a low risk for complications and have a high success rate. The outcome depends on the expertise of your cosmetic dentist in Charlotte, NC, and your overall health. If you decide to trust Dr. Bjelac, you can rest assured that your new smile is in safe hands. In rare cases, risks of dental implants include an infection, nerve damage, sinus issues, and damage to the surrounding structures.
The Preparation Process Before Getting Implants
Preparing for dental implant surgery starts with an exam done by your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark. You will also need to get an X-ray and models of your teeth. Dr. Bjelac will have a conversation with you regarding your medical history and then come up with an adequate treatment plan. If you are also wondering how much dental implants cost in Charlotte, NC, know that this will depend on the extent of work that you need.
What Does the Surgical Procedure for Dental Implants in Charlotte, NC, Look Like?
The process of getting dental implants requires at least two separate procedures. In rare cases, it can all be done at once, but expect to visit your Charlotte, NC, dentist on at least two occasions. Here’s what the procedures entail.
Placing the Root Implant
This is a simple outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. Once you get anesthesia into the surgical site, your dentist will cut into the gum tissue to expose the bone. Now, all they have to do is drill a hole in the bone where the root implant will be placed. When the implant is secured in place, the first part of the process is completed. Keep in mind that this still leaves you with a tooth gap – you will have to be a bit patient till the next surgical procedure is done.
Placing the Artificial Tooth
The abutment, or the artificial tooth, can’t be placed until the tooth root implant fully sets in. This process is called osseointegration, which represents the bone growing around the implant, which is what guarantees its stability and longevity. Osseointegration can take a few months.
Once your dentist determines the base is stable enough for the artificial tooth, they will perform the second part of the dental implant surgical process. This is a quick procedure – all your dentist in Charlotte, NC, has to do is place the artificial tooth into the root implant, and you will be left with a brand-new tooth.
The Post-Op Recovery Process
Since this is an outpatient procedure, you will have to handle your recovery on your own. Naturally, our team at Aspire Dental Wellness will guide you through everything, so you have no reason to worry. You will be prescribed pain medication and a diet of soft foods for the first couple of days after each surgery.
Dr. Bjelac will also give you some advice about oral hygiene during post-op. Some bruising, swelling, discomfort, and a little bit of bleeding are all expected during the post-op recovery. However, if these issues persist or keep getting worse after a few days, you would do best to consult with your Charlotte, NC, dentist.
Reach Out to Aspire Dental Wellness to Start the Transformation of Your Teeth
Are you ready to take the first step toward a new smile? Aspire Dental Wellness is here to help you. Our team, led by the amazing Dr. Bjelac, can come up with a treatment plan for you to ensure you get exactly what you imagined. Contact us today, and let’s plan your first visit to our clinic in SouthPark, Charlotte.
