Get Your Smile Ready for Dental Implants

Are you deciding on dental implants but unsure if your mouth is ready for the procedure? Our Everett implant dentist at Just Smile Dental can determine if you qualify for implants. If he finds your candidacy can benefit from additional treatments, supplemental procedures might be the key to ensuring successful dental implant placement. 

Dr. William Webley will delve into the world of supplemental procedures and how they can benefit you. Call our Everett office at (425) 341-1111 to learn more about this revolutionary treatment!

What Are Supplemental Procedures?

Supplemental procedures are treatments designed to enhance oral health and prepare patients for dental implants by addressing issues such as jawbone deterioration and gum recession. Some patients, especially those with a history of denture use or tooth loss, may require additional treatments depending on the specific supplemental procedure they need.

Dental Implants and Oral Health

A solid base is a prerequisite for successful dental implants. Bone grafting can provide this stability, serving as a reliable foundation for dental implants or other tooth replacement solutions. Improving the health of jaws and gums with supplemental treatments can increase the success rate of dental implant placements.

Pre-Screening and Assessment

Before any implant procedure, Dr. Webley conducts a thorough evaluation. This includes a comprehensive review of medical history, medication assessment, and a meticulous dental examination. He’ll check the condition of your oral and gum health, teeth condition, bone density, and bone quality. This initial step establishes a foundation for informed decision-making.

Radiographic and Diagnostic Imaging

Utilizing state-of-the-art imaging technology, including CBCT and panoramic X-rays, Dr. Webley can precisely visualize your oral structures. These diagnostic tools are instrumental in determining the need for supplemental procedures.

Supplemental Procedures Available at Just Smile Dental

Autogenous Bone Grafting

Autogenous bone grafting is a procedure that uses the patient’s own bone to reinforce the jaw and establish a reliable base for dental implants. The bone graft surgery process involves grafting donor tissue to deficient areas of the jawbone, allowing it to bond with the new tissue and integrate it over time. Bone grafting aims to reconstruct the jawbone structure, making it robust and healthy enough to support dental implants.

The amount of time it takes to recover from a ridge augmentation procedure can vary greatly. Patients may experience some degree of swelling or minor discomfort after the procedure. These symptoms can be managed with rest and pain relief medications.

Dentin Grafting

Dentin grafting is a procedure that uses processed human or animal teeth to enhance jawbone density and provide support for dental implants. Dentin, the hard tissue beneath the enamel of a tooth, is used as a graft material for various dental procedures such as socket preservation, sinus lifting, and periodontal defect regeneration.

Dentin grafting offers several benefits when compared to conventional bone grafting, such as a quicker healing period, heightened soft tissue response, and enhanced support for dental implants. The process involves harvesting dentin from a donor source and grafting it onto the jawbone, where we then secure it with screws for stabilization and to promote healing.

Sinus Lift Augmentation

Sinus lift augmentation is a procedure that involves adding bone to the upper jaw to support dental implants when the sinuses are too close and the bone is too thin. This procedure is ideal when there’s insufficient bone height in the upper jaw, which can impede dental implant placement.

Post-operative care after a sinus lift calls for patients to follow their dentist’s instructions, which may encompass medication intake, sufficient rest, and dietary restrictions. Some patients may experience bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort following the procedure, but these symptoms are typically short-lived.

Healing and Recovery

Following supplemental procedures for dental implant candidacy, Dr. Webley provides a detailed timeline for the healing process. This timeline may vary depending on the procedure performed and individual patient factors.

  • For bone grafting or sinus lifts, patients can expect a healing period of approximately four to six months. 
  • Ridge augmentation and soft tissue grafting may have shorter healing periods, typically ranging from two to four months. 

During this period, patients should follow postoperative care instructions diligently to support the healing process.

Postoperative Follow-up Visits

Dr. Webley schedules a series of postoperative follow-up visits at our Everett office to monitor the patient’s progress. These visits are crucial for assessing the healing of the surgical site and ensuring there are no complications.

Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Webley to make any necessary adjustments or interventions if needed. During these visits, imaging may be conducted to track bone regeneration and confirm the readiness for implant placement.

Aftercare and MaintenanceThe Importance of Flossing

Following your dental implant treatment and any associated supplemental treatments, it’s crucial to implement a diligent aftercare routine to ensure the long-term success of your new smile. Here are some essential steps to follow:

  • Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
  • Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule and attend routine dental check-ups and cleanings. This allows your dentist to monitor your implants, teeth, and gums, and address any issues promptly.
  • Avoid Harmful Habits: Steer clear of habits that can potentially damage your implants, such as chewing on hard objects, using your teeth as tools, or smoking. These actions can compromise the stability of your implants.
  • Watch Your Diet: Be mindful of your diet, particularly in the initial healing phase. Stick to soft, non-chewy foods and avoid very hot or very cold items. As you progress, gradually reintroduce harder foods.
  • Monitor for Signs of Complications: Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms or signs of potential complications. If you experience persistent pain, or swelling, or notice any abnormalities, contact your dental provider promptly.
  • Protect Against Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): If you have a history of teeth grinding, consider wearing a nightguard. This protective device can help prevent excessive pressure on your implants and natural teeth.
  • Maintain Overall Health: General health practices, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco, contribute to your overall oral health and can positively impact the longevity of your dental implants.
  • Stay Informed and Communicate: Stay informed about your oral health and any potential risks or considerations related to your dental implants. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to communicate with your dental provider.

Benefits of Dental Implant Candidacy and Supplemental Procedures

Discover the numerous advantages of considering dental implant candidacy and undergoing supplemental procedures at Just Smile Dental:

  • Enhanced Stability and Longevity: Supplemental treatments provide a solid foundation for dental implants. This enhances the stability of the implants, contributing to their long-term success.
  • Improved Aesthetics and Functionality: Implants supported by supplemental procedures look and function like natural teeth. They restore your smile, allowing you to eat, speak, and laugh with confidence.
  • Preservation of Facial Structure: By maintaining bone density and structure, supplemental treatments help preserve your facial contours and prevent the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.
  • Prevents Further Dental Complications: Supplemental treatments address underlying issues such as inadequate bone density or compromised soft tissues. This can prevent future dental complications and the need for additional treatments down the line.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: Our implant dentist in Everett tailors supplemental procedures to your unique needs. This personalized approach ensures that you receive the most effective and appropriate treatment for your oral health.
  • Restored Confidence and Quality of Life: Supplemental treatments provide a natural, secure solution to your implants. This can significantly boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life.
  • Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in supplemental treatments for dental implant candidacy can lead to long-term cost savings. Implants, when properly maintained, can last a lifetime, reducing the need for frequent replacements or adjustments.
  • Comprehensive Care: With Dr. Webley’s skills, you receive comprehensive care from a skilled professional. His commitment to excellence ensures that you receive the highest standard of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are supplemental procedures always necessary for dental implant placement?

Not always. While some patients may require supplemental procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts to ensure a sturdy foundation, others may have sufficient bone density for immediate implant placement. Your implant dentist or oral surgeon assesses each case individually to determine the most appropriate approach.

How soon after the supplemental procedure can I proceed with dental implant placement?

The timing for implant placement after supplemental procedures varies based on the specific procedure and the patient’s healing response. Your implant dentist or oral surgeon will provide personalized recommendations and monitor the healing progress closely before proceeding with implant placement.

Will I be able to resume normal activities after the supplemental procedure?

In most cases, patients can gradually resume normal activities after the supplemental procedure, but it’s important to follow any specific restrictions provided by your implant dentist or oral surgeon. Strenuous activities may need to be limited initially to support proper healing.

What is the success rate of supplemental procedures for dental implant candidacy?

The success rate of supplemental procedures is generally high when performed by an experienced implant dentist or oral surgeon. Success depends on factors such as patient health, adherence to postoperative care, and the specific procedure performed. They can provide more specific success rate information based on individual cases.

Ready to Explore Dental Implant Candidacy and Supplemental Procedures?

If you’re considering dental implants and want to learn more about the supplemental procedures that may be beneficial for your specific case, schedule a consultation with Dr. William Webley at (425) 341-1111. You can also request an appointment, and a staff member will assist you.

We proudly offer services to new and returning patients in Everett, Edmonds, Marysville, Lynnwood, and Silver Firs, WA. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.