Maria, a 60-year-old Middle Ridge local, had been struggling with missing teeth for some time. She wanted a solution that would look and feel natural, allowing her to regain her confidence and enjoy her favourite foods again. After considering her options, Maria decided that dental implants were the right choice for her, so she booked a consultation with Middle Ridge Family Dental.
"I was nervous at first, but I knew that implants could be the best solution for me," Maria shares. "The team at Middle Ridge Family Dental made me feel comfortable and took the time to explain every step of the process."
Dr. Anish's Overview: What to Expect During the Dental Implant Process
When Maria first came in, I could tell she was both excited and a little apprehensive. Dental implants are a significant investment in your smile and quality of life, so it’s important to understand what the process involves. Here’s a step-by-step look at what patients like Maria can expect when getting dental implants at Middle Ridge Family Dental.
1. Initial Consultation
The first step is a comprehensive consultation. During this visit, we evaluate your oral health, take 3D scans, and discuss your needs and expectations. For Maria, we spent time talking about her goals for treatment and the benefits of dental implants, including how they could help improve her ability to eat and smile confidently. We also looked at her overall health to make sure she was a good candidate for implants.
2. Treatment Planning
Once we determined that implants were the right choice, we created a detailed treatment plan. This plan includes the number of implants needed, the timeline for the procedure, and any preparations required. We use advanced 3D imaging technology to plan the placement of each implant precisely, ensuring the best possible outcome.
3. Implant Placement
The next step is the placement of the implants. This is done under local anaesthesia to keep patients comfortable. Maria was pleasantly surprised at how straightforward the procedure was. "I thought it would be much more intense, but Dr. Anish and the team made it so easy. They explained everything they were doing, and I felt well cared for throughout," Maria recalls.
4. Healing and Osseointegration
After the implants are placed, they need time to fuse with the jawbone—a process called osseointegration. This typically takes several months and is crucial for the stability of the implants. During this healing period, Maria was fitted with temporary crowns so she could continue her daily activities without feeling self-conscious.
5. Abutment and Crown Placement
Once the implants have fully integrated, the abutments (connectors) are placed, and custom-made crowns are attached. These crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless look. Maria was thrilled when she saw her new smile for the first time. "It looked so natural—I couldn’t believe the difference," she says.
6. Follow-Up Care
Follow-up care is an important part of the process. We scheduled regular check-ups with Maria to monitor her healing and ensure everything was progressing well. It’s vital to maintain good oral hygiene and attend these appointments to keep the implants in great condition.
Considering Dental Implants?
If you’re interested in restoring your smile with dental implants, schedule a consultation with Middle Ridge Family Dental today. We’re here to guide you through every step of the journey and help you regain your confidence.
"Getting dental implants has been life-changing," Maria shares. "I can eat comfortably again, and I feel so much more confident about my smile. The team at Middle Ridge Family Dental made the entire experience smooth and stress-free."