When patients visit us at Lathrop Dental Center, we find many of them bring up similar inquiries regarding dental implants. We hope you will call us with your questions or remember to voice your inquiries during your dental visits, as we strive to ensure our patients feel fully educated. In the meantime, we encourage you to glance through the following for answers to frequently asked questions:
Dr. Lathrop will first discuss your goals and medical history with you. He will also determine whether you are in good enough health for surgery, and whether your jawbone is strong enough to support a dental implant. He may suggest improved hygiene if your oral health is in decline, or may recommend bone grafting to strengthen your jaw before deeming you a successful candidate.
Your first visit will be a dental consultation. Dr. Lathrop will discuss your dental implant options with you and examine your oral cavity. This process may include advanced imagining, Dr. Lathrop has a clear understanding of your candidacy for implants and which system will best accomplish your goals. You and your dentist will work together to choose a restoration appropriate for you.
Your implant dentist, Dr. Lathrop, will carefully plan your surgery before your visit. When you arrive, he or his anesthesiologist will fully sedate you with one of our sedation options, such as oral sedation with nitrous oxide, or IV sedation. Your comfort and vitals will be monitored throughout your entire surgery. Dr. Lathrop will then strategically place the implants into your jawbone, so they support your chosen restoration. You will need a friend or loved one to drive you home after the procedure.
You will need to wait approximately three to four months until the implant fully fuses with your jawbone and you are ready for your restoration. In the meantime, we will provide you with a temporary prosthetic so you feel comfortable.
Yes, you may finance your implants with one of our available financing companies, Springstone or CareCredit. These third-party financing companies offer a variety of special-interest options and repayment periods, so every patient can achieve a complete, beautiful smile.
Your implants may last 20 years or even longer, particularly with excellent care. You will typically care for your implants in a similar fashion to that of your natural teeth. However, Dr. Lathrop will advise against abrasive toothpaste to protect your restorations, and he may suggest special tools to ensure thorough cleaning.