
Oct
Dental implants are a popular permanent teeth replacement option available at Family Dentistry of Caledonia in Caledonia, Michigan. Drs. Gary L. Scott and Allyson M. Grove find that these restorations are great for many patients needing to replace one, several, or all the teeth in the dental arch. Let’s look at some frequently asked questions from our implant dentists.
Our team at Family Dentistry of Caledonia describes a dental implant as an artificial tooth root placed in the natural jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Made of biocompatible materials like titanium, dental implants fuse with the patient’s jawbone during a process called osseointegration and provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth.
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and regular maintenance. They are designed to be a permanent solution for those with missing teeth and have a high success rate. Regular dental check-ups and appropriate oral hygiene habits at home ensure the longevity of the dental implants.
The procedure for placing quality dental implants is typically done under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any discomfort. After the surgery, patients might notice some minor discomfort or swelling, but this is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients report minimal to no pain during the healing process.
Not everyone is a proper candidate for our dental implants. One’s overall health and the condition of one’s jawbone are factors in determining whether a patient is a suitable candidate for this procedure. Our team at Family Dentistry of Caledonia will evaluate a patient’s individual situation and determine if dental implants are right for their needs.
Caring for quality dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing, paired with dental check-ups, maintain the health of the dental implant and the surrounding teeth. It is also recommended to avoid habits such as smoking or using tobacco products, as they can affect the longevity of the implants.
During your surgical procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure a more comfortable and pain-free experience. Our dentists make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. The titanium implant is then carefully implanted directly into the bone and allowed to fuse with it through osseointegration. Once the implant has successfully integrated with the bone, a connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant, followed by a custom-made crown or bridge that matches your natural teeth.
Patients seeking solutions for missing teeth are encouraged to ask about permanent tooth replacement using dental implants. Drs. Gary L. Scott and Allyson M. Grove can evaluate you to determine if you are a proper candidate for this alternative to dentures and bridges. Call (616) 816-5882 to request a consultation appointment at 9021 North Rodgers Court SE in Suite E.
Dr. Gary L. Scott, DDS
Dr. Gary Scott is a highly experienced dentist with over 25 years of practice, having earned his DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1996. Following graduation, Dr. Scott served in the U.S. Army, completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency and serving with distinction in the 10th Mountain Division. In 1999, he established Family Dentistry of Caledonia, where he continues to provide trusted care. With his dedication to patient well-being and community service, you can trust Dr. Scott to deliver compassionate, expert dental care for your family.
Dr. Allyson M. Grove, DDS
Dr. Ally Grove is a compassionate and dynamic dentist who graduated with her DDS from the University of Michigan in 2022. She holds a dual degree in Biology and Spanish from Ferris State University, where she was also a student-athlete. Dr. Grove is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care at Family Dentistry of Caledonia and is passionate about patient education and comfort. She strives to build lasting relationships with her patients through trust, personalized care, and a commitment to their well-being.