If you are missing one or multiple teeth and are considering dental implants in Kelowna, you’re making a great choice to regain your smile and confidence.Â
Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking treatment for replacing missing teeth, and knowing what’s ahead in your journey can help make the process a little more comfortable and clear.
Let’s go through the process of dental implants, from your consultation to the final stages of healing and care. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help reduce the anxiety and help you prepare.
Step 1: The Consultation
Your journey begins with a dental implant consultation. At this point, the dentist is reviewing both your dental and medical history, taking X-rays and sometimes doing a 3-D scan of your jaw and mouth. All of these tools help the doctor determine if your bone is strong enough for an implant or if you need a bone graft first.
At this point in your journey, communication is very important. A good dental team will explain each part of the process in common terms, so you can understand everything before moving forward.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
After you have been cleared for implants, the next step is to develop a customized treatment plan.
This involves the number of implants needed, what type of restoration (crown, bridge, etc.) and length of time to complete.
Every smile is unique, and so your plan is developed around you, not a cookie-cutter system! Choosing a Kelowna dental clinic which has your best interests in mind ensures your treatment plan is personal and detailed.
Step 3: The Implant Surgery
Many people find that the surgery is easier than they were expecting. The titanium post is placed into the bone of the jaw to replace the root of the natural tooth. The procedure is usually done under local anesthetic, so even though you will be awake, you won’t feel anything.
The healing process begins immediately after the surgery. This is the phase when the bone is bonded to the implant, also known as osseointegration.Â
The entire healing process takes a couple of months, yet it is an important phase to develop a secure and strong foundation.
Step 4: Attaching the Crown
Once the implant site has healed completely, the final phase is to put on your crown! The crown is a custom-made artificial tooth that matches the size, shape and colour of your other teeth! Once the crown is placed, it feels just like a tooth!
At this point, your smile is fully restoredâyouâll be able to chew, speak, and smile with full confidence again.
Donât let missing teeth hold you back. If youâre thinking about dental implants in Kelowna, itâs time to take the first step.Â
Step 5: Aftercare and Maintenance
Maintaining your implant is just as important as the surgery itself. Following good hygiene practices, like brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, is essential.
Here are some quick dental implant recovery tips:
- Stick to soft foods for a few days after surgery
- Avoid smoking, as it slows healing
- Use ice packs for swelling and take pain relievers if needed
- Keep the area clean and follow your dentistâs instructions
With proper care, your dental implant can last many years, often for life.
Ready to Smile Again?
The success of your implant depends greatly on the experience and support of your dental team. Thatâs why choosing a reliable clinic with a great reputation matters.
At Mission Park Dental, we guide you through every stage of your implant journeyâfrom your consultation to long-term aftercare. As a leading dentist near you, our Kelowna-based team ensures your experience is comfortable, informed, and successful from start to finish. Your healthy, confident smile is closer than you think.
Contact Mission Park Dental todayâyour trusted dental clinic for expert care that goes the extra mile.