Your personalized service begins with our attention to detail and diagnosis during your first appointment with Dr. Atcha. We will discuss your individual needs, implant treatment options, and financial concerns for treatment. Each member under Dr. Atcha works diligently to make your experience with us pleasant and reassuring from the moment you come through the door till the day you leave with your smile.
Scheduling:
Scheduling a dental implant appointment has never been easier! Click “Schedule Now” to make your appointment. Our online form will ask for personal information such as name, phone number, and email address. We will also ask when you wish to start treatment and about finance options.
Consultation:
A dental implant consultation is the first step in the journey to restoring your smile with implants. It’s an opportunity for both the patient and the dental professional to discuss needs, evaluate suitability, and plan the treatment. Here’s what you can typically expect during this consultation:
Discussion of Dental History and Goals:
Dr. Atcha will begin by discussing your dental and medical history. He wants to understand the reasons behind your tooth loss and what you hope to achieve with dental implants.
Oral Examination:
A thorough examination of your mouth will be conducted. This includes checking the health of your remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone. Dr. Atcha will assess the sites of missing teeth and the condition of adjacent teeth.
Imaging:
To get a detailed view of your jawbone and the positioning of any remaining teeth, Dr. Atcha will take a 3D scan. A 3D scan, or Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), offers a detailed three-dimensional view of a patient’s oral structures. This advanced imaging reveals the quantity and quality of the jawbone, ensuring optimal implant placement while avoiding critical anatomical structures like sinuses and nerves. The scan aids in meticulous pre-surgical planning, especially for complex procedures, detects other oral pathologies, and evaluates the positioning and integration of implants post-operatively. In essence, 3D scans equip implant dentists with comprehensive insights for precise treatment planning and successful outcomes.
Bone Quality Assessment:
One of the critical factors for successful dental implants is having sufficient bone quality and quantity. Dr. Atcha will evaluate your bone health and discuss if you might need bone grafting or other preparatory procedures before implant placement.
Treatment Options Discussion:
Based on the examination and imaging, Dr. Atcha will discuss the best treatment options for your case. This could include the type of implant, whether you need a single implant, multiple implants, or full arch solutions like All-On-Four.
Procedure Explanation:
Dr. Atcha will walk you through the implant procedure, explaining each step, from the initial incision to the placement of the implant and the eventual attachment of the prosthetic tooth or teeth.
Cost and Financing:
Dental implants are an investment in your oral health. Dr. Atcha or his administrative team will provide a breakdown of the costs associated with the procedure. Our office also offers financing options to make the treatment more affordable.
Timeline and Scheduling:
You’ll get an idea of the treatment timeline, including any preparatory procedures, the healing period, and when you can expect to have your final prosthetic teeth in place. If you decide to proceed, you can often schedule your next appointments during this consultation.
Questions and Concerns:
The consultation is your opportunity to ask any questions or voice any concerns you might have. Whether it’s about the procedure, recovery, maintenance, or any other aspect, don’t hesitate to seek clarity.
Aftercare and Maintenance:
Dr. Atcha will also provide information on how to care for your implants post-surgery and the importance of regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of your dental implants.
Overall, a dental implant consultation is a comprehensive session designed to equip you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. It’s a collaborative process, ensuring that the treatment aligns with your oral health needs and aesthetic goals.
Dental Implant Treatment:
Dental implant treatments have revolutionized the way missing teeth are replaced, offering durable, natural-looking solutions. Here’s what you can expect for various dental implant treatments:
Same-Day Dental Implants:
- Procedure: After the implant is placed, a temporary crown or bridge is attached on the same day.
- Recovery: While you leave with a tooth in place, care is needed to ensure the implant integrates with the bone. Avoid putting excessive pressure on the new tooth.
- Final Restoration: Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone (usually a few months), a permanent crown or bridge replaces the temporary one.
All-On-Four Implants:
- Procedure: Four implants are placed in strategic positions in the jaw. A provisional bridge is often attached on the same day.
- Recovery: Dietary restrictions and oral hygiene instructions are provided.
- Final Restoration: After healing, the provisional bridge is replaced with a permanent, durable bridge.
Implant-Supported Dentures:
- Procedure: Multiple implants are placed in the jaw. Depending on the case, the denture may be attached immediately or after a healing period.
- Usage: The dentures can be snapped or clipped onto the implants, providing stability.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning of the dentures and the implant attachments is essential.
Zygomatic Implants:
- Procedure: Longer implants are anchored into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone). A provisional prosthesis may be attached immediately.
- Recovery: Special care instructions are provided due to the unique implant placement.
- Final Restoration: Once healing is complete, a final bridge or denture is attached.
Fixed Dentures:
- Procedure: Implants are placed in the jaw, and after integration, a fixed denture is permanently attached.
- Usage: The denture remains in place, offering the feel and function of natural teeth.
- Maintenance: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.
Full Mouth Reconstruction:
- Treatment Plan: A combination of treatments, including implants, crowns, bridges, and possibly orthodontics, is planned.
- Procedure: Multiple appointments are scheduled for various treatments. Implants, if part of the plan, are placed and allowed to integrate.
- Final Outcome: The result is a fully restored, functional, and aesthetic set of teeth.
In all cases, post-operative care, regular dental check-ups, and good oral hygiene practices are crucial for the longevity and success of the treatment. It’s essential to follow the dentist’s instructions closely and report any unusual symptoms or concerns promptly.
Postoperative Care:
Postoperative care for dental implants is crucial to ensure the successful integration of the implant with the bone and to prevent complications. Here’s what one can expect in terms of postoperative care:
Pain Management:
Some discomfort and swelling are normal after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage pain and inflammation.
Oral Hygiene:
Keeping the surgical site clean is vital. Patients are usually advised to gently rinse their mouth with a saltwater solution or an antiseptic mouthwash. Regular brushing can resume, but the surgical area should be approached with care.
Dietary Restrictions:
A soft diet is recommended for several days to a few weeks post-surgery to avoid putting pressure on the implant site. Patients should avoid hot foods and drinks, as well as hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.
Swelling and Bruising:
Some patients may experience swelling or bruising around the surgical area and cheeks. Applying a cold pack intermittently can help reduce this.
Avoid Physical Strain:
It’s advisable to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the surgery to prevent bleeding or discomfort.
No Smoking:
Smoking can hinder the healing process and decrease the success rate of dental implants. Patients are advised to refrain from smoking for a significant period before and after the surgery.
Regular Check-ups:
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process, ensure proper integration of the implant, and eventually place the crown or prosthetic tooth.
Signs of Complications:
While rare, complications can arise. Patients should be vigilant and contact their dentist if they notice prolonged pain, excessive bleeding, increased swelling after the first few days, or any signs of infection.
Long-Term Care:
Once the implant has fully integrated and the prosthetic tooth is in place, regular oral hygiene practices (brushing, flossing) should continue. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding tissues.
In essence, postoperative care for dental implants revolves around ensuring a clean environment for healing, managing discomfort, and monitoring the implant’s integration. Proper care and adherence to the dentist’s instructions can significantly enhance the success and longevity of the implant.
