Getting Follow Up Care After Dental Implants

Dental implants offer individuals the opportunity to regain a fully functioning set of teeth. The aftercare procedures are imperative to ensure the surgical area heals and implant osseointegration occurs. Osseointegration is the process by which the bone in the jaw fuses with the implant posts. This creates the solid foundation needed to support the apparatus. Following the dentist’s procedures for at-home care and adhering to a follow-up care schedule are important to the success of implants.

Why is follow-up care required?

The first year following surgery is the most critical time for healing. It can take up to 12 months for the process of osseointegration to occur. It is also the time when the gums are most vulnerable to infection. Implant failure is much more likely to occur during this period than at any time after that first year.

Procedures for follow-up appointments

During follow-up appointments, a dental professional assesses the gums, implants, and surrounding teeth to determine how well the patient is healing and whether there are any signs of complications. The appliance is artificial, but this does not mean that no care is required. Implants have the potential to last a lifetime when proper attention is given. Follow-up care often involves evaluation for the following conditions:

  • Evidence of traumatic occlusion
  • Signs of tissue inflammation
  • Presence of bleeding when tissue is probed
  • Indications of infection or presence of pus
  • Accumulation of calculus or plaque

Taking an X-ray of the individual’s jaw is a common procedure in post-surgical care. It is possible for the patient to receive more than one over the first year following placement. The imaging allows for examining the condition of the bone, the dental implants, and surrounding anatomical structures.

Assessment in the first six weeks

Often, the first post-placement appointment is scheduled within two weeks of surgery. At this time, soft tissue is assessed for healing progress. Hard tissue, soft tissue, and the implant are examined for signs of infection. Often, a second appointment is scheduled for six weeks after the dental implants are placed. Soft-tissue healing is expected to be complete at this time.

Assessment every three to four months post placement

After the initial follow-up appointments, patients are generally scheduled for follow-up care every three to four months. This involves monitoring the progress of osseointegration as well as oral hygiene status. Procedures are reviewed or altered when necessary. The condition of the patient's implants and overall oral health determine the frequency of recommended follow-ups after the first year.

Assessments of bite force

At each appointment during the first year, dental professionals look for any indication that the patient is biting down on the implant with too much force. An individual who is diagnosed with bruxism may require a mouth guard to prevent damage to or failure of the implant. For others, it is imperative to refrain from using the implant to chew during the healing process.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants Follow Up Care in Trophy Club, TX

Conclusion

Dental implants can be a good choice for replacing missing teeth. Ensuring success requires proper oral hygiene and an adherence to post-placement follow-up care.

Request an appointment or call Trophy Smile Studio at 817-210-4049 for an appointment in our Trophy Club office.

Related Posts

The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants

Dental implants are an increasingly popular choice for individuals with missing or damaged teeth. They offer a variety of benefits over traditional dentures or bridges. However, they can also come with challenges, and not everyone will benefit from the procedure. This article will explore the pros and cons of dental implants to help you make…

What Is The Process Of Getting A Dental Implant?

Studies show that dental implants remain the gold standard in dental restorations. These dental replacements are the most stable ones that you can get. It may be invasive, but once it heals well, you will have good dental function again. Here are the details about the process of getting dental implants.The dentist will examine the…

The Benefits Of Choosing Dental Implants Over Dentures

Getting dental implants as a replacement for removable dentures can be a rewarding move. These restorations are stable and lasting. You can smile, laugh, eat, and speak without worrying that they will slip out of your mouth. Here are the benefits of getting dental implants over removable dentures.Dental implants are effective in restoring teeth. Unlike…

Dr. Wrobel

Share
Published by
Dr. Wrobel

Recent Posts

Denture Care: 4 Bad Habits to Avoid

It might take some time adjusting to your new smile and the proper denture care…

4 days ago

All-on-4 Treatment from Your Dentist

An All-on-4® treatment can treat a full arch of missing upper or lower teeth, restoring…

2 weeks ago

Denture Care: Why Is It Not Recommended to Keep Your Dentures In All the Time

Whether to take your dentures out or keep them in all the time is a…

2 weeks ago

How Regular Dental Checkups Are Important for Denture Care

When you are new to wearing dentures, you have many questions involving your denture care.…

3 weeks ago

Can a Dentist Save a Cracked Tooth?

Wondering whether a cracked tooth can be saved by a dentist? Read on to find…

3 weeks ago

The FAQ’s of Denture Care

Denture care is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but few people know the…

4 weeks ago