Most of our patients know that dental implants are a superior solution for missing teeth, but many assume that the process is more lengthy and complicated than it really is. Dr. Grubb will ensure your treatment is as simple and comfortable as possible, and he even offers immediate load implants that can be placed in one appointment for your convenience.
The first step of the implant process is scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Grubb. During this visit, he’ll thoroughly examine your oral health and determine if dental implants are the right treatment for you. He’ll also use this time to explain each step of the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have.
If you suffer from gum disease or jawbone deterioration, he’ll likely recommend one or more supplemental procedures to prepare you for implant surgery. These procedures can include bone grafting, soft tissue augmentation, and more.
Once Dr. Grubb determines you’re ready, he’ll place your implant fixture directly in your jawbone. From this point, you’ll need to allow three to six months for your implant to heal before your crown can be attached. This is to allow time for osseointegration, the process of your implant fixture fusing with your jaw to take the place of a natural tooth root.
For patients who don’t have this much time, we also offer immediate load implants. Using these special implants, Dr. Grubb can attach your restoration as soon as your implant surgery is complete. By condensing a multi-month process into a single appointment, immediate load implants offer a convenient alternative to the traditional method.
After your dental implants have been placed, you will be sent home with a complete list of after-care instructions from Dr. Grubb. Bending, lifting, and strenuous activity can increase your risk of bleeding, swelling, or other complications. For this reason, you will be told to minimize pressure on the surgery site, restrict physical activities, and be sure to rest after your procedure. In addition to rest, patients need to visually inspect their implant site for any changes or abnormal side-effects. These should be reported to our office immediately.
Dental implants are completely safe and are effective in stimulating your jawbone. Implant treatment boasts a high success rate, as long as the procedure is performed by an experienced and qualified dentist like Dr. Grubb. Dental implants are not only effective in restoring your smile, but provide patients with a customized restoration that’s long-lasting.
The dental implant process typically takes six months to complete, but this can vary from patient to patient. The duration of your treatment also depends on how long your jawbone and gums take to heal around the implant. Procedures done on the upper arch tend to have a longer healing period compared to the lower jaw.
We recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Grubb to create a customized treatment plan and determine an accurate recovery time estimate. You can call our Havre de Grace office at (410) 939-5800 to reach a knowledgeable team member.
You can still get dental implants even if you have tooth decay, but those issues will have to be taken care of prior to receiving treatment. During your initial consultation, Dr. Grubb will examine your oral health and recommend any supplemental treatments to help prevent any further complications.
Most supplemental procedures can be done right here at our Harvard de Grace office and may include a bone or gum graft and gum disease treatment. Once this process is complete, you’re all set to receive your dental implants that will enhance your smile.
If you have reservations about the dental implant process, Dr. Grubb will be happy to clear them up for you. To schedule your initial consultation, contact our practice in Havre de Grace today – it’s the first step to your new smile.
203 S. Washington Street
Havre de Grace, MD 21078
(410) 939-5800