Your Journey to a Stunning Smile
Starting your journey to a stunning smile is an exciting step, and at Eastside Dental Implant Center in Issaquah, WA, Dr. Sidhu and our dedicated dental team are here to guide you every step of the way. For personalized assistance and answers to your questions, call us at (425) 526-5424. The dental implant process, tailored to each patient, typically takes three to six months to complete.
If you’re seeking an experienced dental implant dentist in the Issaquah area, including Bellevue and Sammamish, Dr. Sidhu is your go-to dentist. Explore our patient-friendly guide for more insights into our dental implant process.
The Dental Implant Process at Eastside Dental Implant Center
Your First Consultation
During the initial consultation, our focus is on understanding your unique oral health needs. We conduct a thorough examination, addressing concerns about your dental history and medications. Utilizing diagnostic tools like X-rays, we gain detailed insights into your jawbone’s structure, determining the most suitable implant type and size. This phase fosters clear communication to develop a customized treatment plan.
By the consultation’s end, you’ll grasp the treatment plan, recommended implant types, anticipated timeline, and any preparatory steps like supplemental procedures. This collaborative approach ensures both you and our dental team are well-prepared for upcoming phases.
Treatment Planning
Following the initial consultation, our dental team crafts a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan outlines the specifics of your dental implant journey, considering factors like location and bone density for the most suitable implant type and size. We discuss various options, addressing potential challenges and presenting a step-by-step plan for the entire process.
Clarity on the treatment plan aids in managing expectations, empowering you to make informed decisions about your oral health. The treatment timeline, encompassing phases like surgery and restoration, is explained, providing a comprehensive understanding of your journey.
Implant Placement
After your consultation, you’ll visit our Issaquah office so Dr. Sidhu can begin your dental implant procedure. We’ll start by administering a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable and relaxed. We’ll then surgically place the titanium implant directly into your jawbone. Once we make sure the site is stitched up and clean, you’ll begin your healing period.
As you heal, for the next three to six months, you’ll go through a natural process called osseointegration, creating a durable foundation for the implant. Your titanium implant replaces your tooth roots, making your restorations uniquely durable and sturdy. We’ll provide you with a temporary dental crown to protect the surgical site while it heals in the next few months.
Crown Customization
As your jawbone and gums heal, we’ll create your customized dental crowns based on your natural teeth. Crafted from durable materials such as porcelain or ceramic, the crown is designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a natural appearance. If you’re receiving an All-on-X restoration, our dentists will also ensure it looks and feels perfectly natural.
Completing Your Restoration
Once you have healed, you’ll return to our Issaquah office to finish the last step of the dental implant process. The final step includes adjustments and fitting to ensure proper bite and functionality. Your implant dentist will carefully assess your bite and make any necessary refinements for optimal comfort. You’ll leave our office that day with a fully functional smile that you’ll be proud to share with your loved ones.
Caring for Your Implants
After the implant placement procedure, Dr. Sidhu will provide thorough aftercare instructions to support the healing process effectively. In addition to the basics, consider the following guidelines for optimal care:
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the overall health of your teeth and implants. Professional cleanings are essential to maintain optimal oral hygiene, and your dental team can address any concerns during these visits.
- Gentle Brushing Routine: Gently brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This ensures proper oral hygiene without causing unnecessary stress on the implant site.
- Dietary Considerations: Avoid overly hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods during the initial healing period. Opt for nutritious options like smoothies, mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, soups, and eggs, promoting a balanced diet that supports overall health.
- Avoid Harmful Habits: Refrain from smoking and avoid using straws, excessive sucking, or spitting, as these actions can disrupt the healing process. These precautions contribute to smoother recovery and enhance the success of your dental implant treatment.
- Hydration and Rinsing: Stay hydrated, and frequently rinse your mouth with water to keep the implant site moist and clean. This simple practice supports a healthy oral environment during the crucial post-operative phase.
Dr. Sidhu and our Issaquah dental team are dedicated to providing comprehensive care. Feel free to ask any questions or share concerns during your visits, and rest assured that you will receive additional information, such as implant-friendly oral care products, to ensure the success of your dental implant treatment.
Preparing for Your Implant Procedure
The dental implant process isn’t as complex as some may say. However, the preparation is what can be overwhelming. Dr. Sidhu can provide you with additional information on how to prepare for your dental implant procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your dental implants can last a lifetime when you practice good oral hygiene. To ensure longevity, your implant provider recommends following these instructions:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss daily
- Rinse after meals with an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Visit your dentist biannually for professional cleanings and checkups
If your implants break or fail, immediately contact your implant dentist and they’ll assist you in getting a replacement.
The need for a supplemental procedure depends on factors like jawbone density and overall oral health. If your initial assessment reveals insufficient bone to support an implant, your dentist may recommend a supplemental procedure, such as bone grafting, to enhance the foundation for successful implant placement. A comprehensive evaluation during your consultation will help determine if any additional procedures are necessary for the success of your dental implant treatment.
Complications with dental implants are rare since the success rate for dental implants is 90 to 95 percent. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong with your dental implant, call your implant provider as soon as possible. Attempting to fix the problem yourself will only worsen the situation. Doing so can result in permanent damage, and your treatment will backtrack.
Whether you’ll need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant depends on your case. In some instances, teeth may need to be extracted if they’re damaged or compromised, while in other cases, dental implants can be placed without the need for extraction. A thorough examination and consultation with your dentist will help determine the most appropriate course of action based on your specific oral health needs.