How Can Patients Prepare for A Same-Day Implant Procedure, And What Should They Expect During the Appointment?

What Is a Same-Day Implant Procedure?

It is an implantation procedure in which a dentist places an implant in the jawbone and attaches a temporary restoration on the same day. A same-day implant procedure is also known as immediate implant placement.

Ideally, same-day implants in Stockton, CA, contrast to traditional implant procedures, where the dentist places an implant in the jawbone and leaves it to heal for several months before attaching a permanent restoration. Even so, both traditional and same-day dental implants feature similar materials. They are small metal posts made of titanium, suitable for replacing the roots of missing teeth.

How Do Same-day Implants Work?

In a same-day implant procedure, the dentist begins the implantation process immediately after tooth extraction. The goal is to take advantage of the existing bone structure, disallowing for bone loss after being without a tooth for long. An implant dentist places the metal post into the empty socket, stabilizing it in the jawbone. This technique is called immediate loading. It allows the attachment of a temporary dental crown or bridges to the implant on the same day. This way, you enjoy immediate functionality and aesthetics.

Should You Get Same-Day Implants?

However incredible the procedure may seem, not all patients may be good candidates. Usually, dentists recommend same-day implants for patients with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant and who have no underlying health issues that could compromise the success of the implant. In fact, sometimes a bone graft or other preparatory procedures may be necessary before the implant surgery. Overall, the success of same-day implants depends on several factors, such as:

• The location of the implant
• The quality and quantity of the remaining bone tissue
• Your overall health and oral hygiene

What Are The Benefits of Same-Day Implants?

If you qualify for same-day dental implants, you will prefer them to traditional tooth implants. Usually, patients opt for same-day implants at Valley View Dental – Stockton for the following reasons:

• No day without teeth: With same-day implants, you can have a missing tooth or teeth replaced in just one visit to the dentist.
• Convenience: You do not need multiple dental appointments to replace missing teeth.
• Fast healing: Same-day implants promote faster healing since the treatment occurs immediately after the tooth extraction. Therefore, less time is necessary for the implant to integrate with the jawbone.
• Preservation of bone and gum tissue: Same-day implants help preserve bone and gum tissue by preventing further bone loss and gum recession.
• Improved aesthetics: Same-day implants improve the appearance of your smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth.
• Reduced risk of infection: When the dentist near you places the implant immediately after the tooth extraction, the surgical site is still fresh and clean, reducing the risk of infection.
• Cost-Effective: You only need to pay for one dental appointment rather than multiple appointments like traditional dental implants.

What Types of Follow-Up Care Are Required After A Same-Day Implant Procedure?

Follow-up care is crucial for the treatment’s success and to ensure proper healing when you leave the Stockton dental office. Some general guidelines to care for your mouth after getting implants are:

• Take any prescribed medications as directed, including pain relievers and antibiotics. Sometimes the dentist will recommend over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen.
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products – they can hinder the healing process, heighten the risk of infection, and increase the risk of implant failure.
• Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few days after the procedure – to avoid aggravating the implant site.
• Use an ice pack on your cheek near the implant site – to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly – to lower the risk of infection. While at it, be gentle around the implant site.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon – to ensure proper healing and monitor the progress of the implant.