What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the ideal way to replace your missing teeth. No other restorative treatment can match the long-lasting, high-performing, natural-looking results that you get with dental implants.
Unlike other types of restorations such as dentures and dental bridges, dental implants are surgically attached to your jawbone. That’s how they provide stability and chewing power that you won’t get with any other type of restoration.
With dental implants, you’ll never have to worry about how your smile looks or how it feels. Instead, you can relax and have a good time at restaurants and family gatherings — just like you used to.
Implant Solutions for Any Number of Missing Teeth
No matter how many teeth you’re looking to restore, we have an implant solution for you:
- Single/Multi-Tooth Replacements
- Full-Arch Tooth Replacements
- Implant-Supported Dentures
When you come in for your consultation, Dr. Stovall and Dr. Jonelle will help you find the treatment that fits your lifestyle.
The Implant Process
You’re just three steps away from your new smile. It all begins when you visit us for your initial consultation with one of our highly qualified implant dentists, Dr. Orlando Stovall or Dr. Jonelle Stovall.
During your consultation, we’ll provide you with a complete dental exam so we can determine your best course of treatment. In some cases, a patient who’s a good candidate for dental implants may require supplemental care to get ready for the implant process, such as bone grafting or treatment for gum disease.
The second step in your treatment process is attaching your implant fixture, connects and bonds to your jawbone. This involves a brief surgical procedure that we complete here at our office in Goldsboro.
It will take between three and six months for the bones in your jaw to adjust to the implant fixture and develop a firm attachment to it. Then we’ll complete the process by placing your natural-looking implant crown. Now you’ll be able to eat and smile with confidence.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Dental implants are growing in popularity as more and more people discover what they can do for your smile. If you’re looking to restore your oral health, regain your self-confidence, and enhance your appearance, then implants are a great option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement option. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. To ensure the longevity of your new smile, we recommend brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals.
In addition to maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine, you’ll want to schedule biannual cleanings and checkups at our Goldsboro location. During this appointment, Dr. Stovall will examine the health of your gums and dental implants to ensure your oral health is in excellent shape.
How painful is a dental implant?
You’ll be numb and won’t feel a thing throughout the procedure. Most people report feeling a little discomfort due to the slight pressure during the surgery. However, with the help of dental sedation, you’ll be in a state of calm, care-free relaxation.
We offer nitrous oxide, oral, and IV sedation — these allow us to carry out your treatment while you’re comfortable and pain-free.
Are there any aftercare instructions following dental implants?
In addition to any recommendations given by Dr. Stovall, to maximize your results with dental implants there are a few guidelines to follow. These include:
- Avoid chewing at the surgical site
- Rinse with warm saltwater
- Avoid hot and cold foods and beverages
- Avoid brushing the surgical site for a few days, then brush carefully
- Refrain from strenuous exercise for 48 hours
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for 72 hours
Do dental implants have to be removed to clean?
Even though you don’t have to remove your dental implants to clean them, keeping them free of plaque and tartar is just as important as it is for your natural teeth. During your biannual appointments at our Goldsboro location, Dr. Stovall will be sure to clean your gums, abutments, and your teeth.
Keeping up with your oral hygiene at home can ensure you’re free of gum disease, which can cause complications with your dental implants. If you suspect you have gum disease, contact our office right away by calling (919) 583-7081.