Preparing for a Successful Dental Implant Treatment
Thanks to the advancements in the dentistry field, more patients are able to receive dental implants than ever before. Some of the biggest obstacles patients face when determining their candidacy for dental implants involve jawbone deterioration and gum disease.
Fortunately, Dr. Hobbs can prepare you for dental implant placement with the help of supplemental procedures. Patients who’ve lived with missing teeth for a long time or previously wore dentures are the most likely to require these treatments.
Learn more about our supplemental procedures below.
The Effects of Bone Loss
Your jaw performs several vital functions — one of which is to anchor your teeth in place. The jaw also gets its stimulation from our teeth for chewing and speaking. When a tooth falls out or is extracted and isn’t replaced, there’s no longer something to stimulate that jawbone. As a result, the tissue begins to disappear, and the jaw’s ridge starts to weaken and change shape.
A patient will need a sufficient amount of bone density to support the placement of their dental implant. Without enough bone in the jaw, an implant won’t be able to successfully integrate, resulting in a loose, unstable restoration that can become infected or possibly fall out.
When patients are lacking jawbone support, it’s usually because they’ve been suffering from tooth loss for too long and bone resorption has occurred. This can also happen when patients have been wearing dentures for a long period of time and haven’t been receiving proper stimulation from a tooth root.
Bone Grafting
If you have insufficient jawbone mass to support dental implants, Dr. Hobbs can restore your jaw strength with a bone graft. Bone grafting involves taking bone tissue from a donor source and grafting it to the deficient areas of your jawbone. Your jaw will absorb this new tissue and integrate it, building a strong and healthy jawbone again.
A restored jaw will greatly improve your candidacy for dental implants. It also helps preserve your facial structure and enhances a youthful appearance. Thanks to bone grafting procedures, Dr. Hobbs can get you on track for dental implant placement and you’ll be closer to your dream smile.
Soft Tissue Augmentation
If you have damaged or weak gums due to periodontal disease, it can interfere with your chances of receiving dental implants. Dr. Hobbs can correct your gum disease and improve your oral health with soft tissue augmentation. This treatment works in a similar fashion as bone grafting, except it treats your gums instead of your jawbone.
This procedure consists of taking healthy gum tissue from a donor and grafting it to the receding areas of your gums. As your gums heal, they’ll absorb the new tissue to restore your oral health and prepare your mouth for implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for a supplemental procedure?
The ideal candidate for a supplemental procedure is someone who’s suffering from tooth loss, gum disease, or has worn long-term dentures that have reduced their jawbone density. It’s necessary to undergo these procedures to avoid complications while getting dental implants.
If you aren’t sure whether you fit the criteria, contact Dr. Hobbs today to schedule a consultation.
Can I still get dental implants without a supplemental procedure?
If you have poor bone density, you won’t be able to receive dental implants without a supplemental procedure. While many patients don’t need the procedure before receiving dental implants, Dr. Hobbs requires certain patients to undergo a supplemental procedure to increase the amount of bone in their jaw for successful dental implant placement. Without the procedure, you face a much higher risk of dental implant failure, infection, and possibly even tooth loss.
Is bone grafting painful?
Bone grafting procedures are virtually painless. Prior to treatment, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to the area so you’ll stay pain-free and relaxed during the entire procedure. Any pain you may experience after the procedure can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication and/or a cold compress.
If you continue to experience unmanageable pain or discomfort, contact our Longview office by calling (903) 371-0295, and we’ll determine the best way to address your situation.
How long does it take to heal after a bone graft?
On average, the complete healing process can take several months. Though every patient is unique, Dr. Hobbs will be able to determine how long will be required for you to heal. Once you’re fully recovered, Dr. Hobbs will discuss the next steps of getting dental implants.
Learn More About Supplemental Procedures
If you’re ready to live your life without missing teeth but need to undergo a supplemental procedure to ensure you’re in good-standing oral health, Dr. Hobbs can help. Our supplemental procedures will prepare your gums and jaw for successful dental implant treatment. To learn more, contact our Longview office by calling us at (903)-371-0295.