Making the decision to get dental implants is a big deal. But, it’s an excellent decision for you and your smile. Living with missing teeth is no fun. Whether you are missing one, two, or all of your teeth, tooth loss in adults can erode your self-confidence, impact your ability to chew and speak, and make you feel limited to closed-lip smiles.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way because tooth replacement with dental implants in Anchorage, Alaska, can change the game for the better. If you have decided to get dental implants, let’s talk about what’s to come.

What to expect when you’re getting implants.

Though dental implants are totally a life-changing event, the results don’t happen overnight. Since this is a permanent solution to replace missing teeth, getting dental implants in Alaska takes some time—typically three to five months before you can start to benefit from your new smile. So, managing expectations is a must.

That said, let’s take a look at what you can expect on your path to a new smile.

Initial Consultation

The road to getting dental implants starts with an initial consultation. During this visit, your dentist at Valley Dental Clinic will assess your overall dental health to determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. This involves a detailed examination of your mouth, including X-rays or 3D imaging, to check your bone density and make sure your jaw can support the implant. 

You’ll also discuss your dental history and any medical conditions that might affect the treatment. This is the perfect time to ask questions and address any concerns. We will then create a personalized treatment plan, outlining the steps and timeline for your dental implant process. 

Implant Placement Procedure

The actual implant placement is a minor surgical procedure. On the day of surgery, your dentist or referred oral surgeon will numb the area to keep you comfortable. Once you’re ready, they will make a small incision in your gum and carefully insert the implant into your jawbone. 

This implant acts like a new tooth root, providing a strong foundation for your future crown. After the surgery, you might feel some swelling or discomfort, but most patients find it manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant is placed, your body needs time to heal. This healing process is known as osseointegration, where the implant fuses with your jawbone. It can take several months, but this step is super important for creating a stable base for your new tooth. 

During this time, it’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for caring for your mouth, such as eating soft foods and keeping the area clean. Regular check-ups will make sure that the implant is bonding well with your bone. While it requires some patience, we promise that the end results will be well worth the wait.

Placing the Abutment and Crown

Once the implant has successfully fused with your jawbone, it’s time to move to the final stage: placing the abutment and crown. The abutment is a small connector that links the implant to the crown, which is the visible part of your new tooth. 

Your dentist will secure the abutment to the implant, and then a custom-made crown will be attached. This crown is designed to match your natural teeth in color and shape, giving you a beautiful, complete smile. After this procedure, you’ll be able to chew, speak, and smile confidently with your new dental implant in place.

Feeling nervous about dental implants?

If you are feeling a bit anxious about your upcoming dental implant procedure, you should know that this feeling is normal. You are likely feeling a mix of excitement about the new smile to come, frustration that it will take a few months, and a bit of worry if the procedure will go well.

Again, these feelings are normal. And, it’s important to understand that dental implants have a high success rate—to the tune of 97%, according to the Journal of Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery. And, when you are getting dental implants in Anchorage, you can rest assured that you are in the best possible hands with the team at Valley Dental Clinic.

Here are a few things to help you relax for your upcoming procedure.

• Talk to your dentist about any concerns you have—they can explain the process and answer all your questions.
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help calm your nerves before the procedure.
• Focus on the long-term benefits of your new smile, and remember that the temporary discomfort will be worth it.

Schedule your AK dental implant consultation today.

If you live in Alaska and you are ready to take your smile to the next level, let’s chat about the best tooth replacement option for your missing teeth. The chances are that dental implants in Anchorage are the perfect solution for your smile needs.

Request your restorative dentistry consultation today. We can’t wait to help you bring out the best in your smile.