Implant Care & Maintenance
Implant Dentists Federal Way
Proper care and maintenance of dental implants are essential to ensure their longevity and optimal oral health. At Federal Way Dental Excellence, we provide comprehensive guidance on dental implant care to help our patients maintain healthy and functional implants for years to come.
Regular Oral Hygiene
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular and thorough oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and using a non-abrasive toothpaste. Flossing around the implant area and using interdental brushes or water flossers can help remove plaque and food debris.Routine Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the health of your dental implants. During these visits, our dental professionals will examine the implants, assess the surrounding gum tissue, and ensure the implants are functioning properly. Any potential issues can be addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of complications.Professional Cleanings
Professional cleanings by our dental hygienists are vital for maintaining the health of your dental implants. These cleanings involve removing plaque and tartar buildup from the implant surfaces and gum line, which can help prevent infection and inflammation around the implants.Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, can negatively impact dental implant success rates. Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of implant failure. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to oral health issues, including gum disease, which can affect the long-term stability of dental implants.Protective Measures
Taking precautions to protect your dental implants is essential. Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, as it can damage the implants or the restoration attached to them. If you engage in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of facial trauma, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your dental implants.Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively impact the health and longevity of your dental implants. This includes following a balanced diet rich in nutrients, as well as managing conditions like diabetes that can affect oral health. Good overall health supports optimal healing and immune function, which is important for implant success.
Exceptional Dental Implants in Federal Way
Meet Our Board-Certified Prosthodontist & Periodontist
Michael Yeh, DDS, MSD, DAAID, PS
Dental Implants & Surgical Prosthodontist
Ray Wong, DDS, MSD
Board-Certified PeriodontistImplant Dentistry
Menu of our Other Services
Be in the know
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Implants
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants function as a stable foundation for replacement teeth. The titanium posts integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and durable anchor for the prosthetic teeth.
Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?
Most individuals who have good oral health, adequate bone density in the jaw, and are missing one or more teeth may be eligible candidates for dental implants. A thorough evaluation by a dental professional is necessary to determine individual suitability.
Are dental implants permanent?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for tooth replacement. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, they can often last a lifetime.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer numerous advantages, including improved appearance, enhanced chewing and speech capabilities, increased comfort compared to removable dentures, and preservation of jawbone integrity.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that patients feel little to no discomfort during the surgery. After the procedure, some mild soreness and swelling may occur, which can be managed with pain medications.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process can vary based on individual factors, such as the number of implants needed, the need for additional procedures like bone grafting, and the healing time required. In general, the process can take several months to complete.
Are there any risks or complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants have a high success rate, but like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These may include infection, damage to surrounding structures, implant failure, or complications during the healing process. However, with proper planning and the expertise of a skilled dental professional, these risks are minimized.
How do I care for dental implants?
Dental implants should be cared for similarly to natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of the implants. Your dentist will provide specific instructions tailored to your individual needs.
Advanced Technology
What is CBCT, and how does it relate to dental implants?
CBCT stands for Cone Beam Computed Tomography, a type of imaging technology that provides highly detailed 3D images of the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. CBCT plays a vital role in dental implant treatment planning, as it allows for precise evaluation of bone density, nerve location, and other factors important for successful implant placement.
How does the use of 3D printed surgical guides benefit dental implant procedures?
3D printed surgical guides are custom-made tools that assist dentists in accurately placing dental implants. These guides are created based on the patient's unique anatomy, utilizing CBCT scans and digital planning software. The guides ensure precise implant positioning, improving the overall success and efficiency of the procedure.
What is the significance of a bone model in dental implant treatment?
A bone model is a physical replica of the patient's jawbone created using advanced digital technology. It allows the dentist to better visualize and plan the implant procedure by studying the bone structure and making precise measurements, enhancing the accuracy and predictability of the treatment.
How does facial scanning contribute to dental implant treatment?
Facial scanning is a non-invasive technology that captures detailed digital images of the patient's face and facial structures. It aids in the development of a comprehensive treatment plan by considering factors such as facial aesthetics, smile design, and proper alignment of the teeth and jaw.
What is a facially generated treatment plan?
A facially generated treatment plan involves using advanced technology, such as facial scanning and digital smile design software, to develop a customized treatment plan that considers the patient's unique facial features, smile aesthetics, and functional requirements. It ensures a harmonious outcome and patient satisfaction.
How does Exocad design software enhance the dental implant process?
Exocad is a state-of-the-art computer-aided design (CAD) software specifically tailored for dental applications. It enables precise digital design of dental restorations, including implant-supported crowns and bridges, ensuring optimal fit, aesthetics, and functionality.
Types of Dental Implants
Disclaimer: It's important to note that the suitability of specific implant types varies depending on individual factors and the recommendations of Dr. Michael Yeh. Consulting with our Federal Way implant dentist will help determine the most appropriate implant type for your specific needs and circumstances.
What are Snap-On Smile® implants?
Snap-On Smile implants are a removable dental appliance that provides a temporary solution for missing teeth. They consist of a custom-fitted dental arch that attaches to existing teeth or implants, giving the appearance of a natural smile.
What are Teeth-In-An-Hour implants?
Teeth-In-An-Hour implants, also known as immediate load implants, allow for the placement of dental implants and the attachment of a temporary prosthesis in a single visit. This innovative technique saves time and provides patients with functional teeth on the same day as their implant surgery.
What are full-arch implants?
Full-arch implants, also called implant-supported dentures or All-on-4/All-on-6 implants, are a comprehensive tooth replacement option for patients who are missing an entire arch of teeth. These implants provide stability and support for a full set of fixed or removable dentures.
What are zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants are longer dental implants that are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the jawbone. They are used in cases where the patient has severe bone loss in the upper jaw and traditional implants cannot be placed. Zygomatic implants provide a stable foundation for implant-supported restorations.
What are pterygoid implants?
Pterygoid implants are dental implants that are anchored in the pterygoid bone, located in the upper jaw behind the maxillary sinuses. These implants are used in cases where there is insufficient bone in the back of the upper jaw for traditional implant placement, allowing for successful implant-supported restorations.
What are nasopalatine implants?
Nasopalatine implants, also known as midline implants, are used to replace missing front teeth in the upper jaw. These implants are specifically designed for patients who do not have enough bone in the area and require a minimally invasive solution.
What are transnasal implants?
Transnasal implants are a less invasive alternative to traditional dental implants, where the implant is placed through the nostrils and secured in the upper jaw. This technique is suitable for select cases and offers a quicker and more comfortable recovery.
What are customized subperiosteal implants?
Customized subperiosteal implants are individually designed implants that are created to fit the unique anatomy of a patient's jawbone. They are used in cases where there is limited bone volume or other challenges for traditional implant placement.
What are ceramic implants?
Ceramic implants, also known as zirconia implants, are an alternative to traditional titanium implants. They are made of biocompatible and tooth-colored zirconia material, providing a metal-free and aesthetically pleasing option for dental implant restorations.
Implant Care & Maintenance
How should I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants involves practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Flossing around the implant-supported restoration and using an antibacterial mouthwash are also important. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for monitoring and maintaining the health of your implants.
Can dental implants get cavities?
Dental implants themselves cannot get cavities since they are made of artificial materials. However, the surrounding natural teeth and gum tissues can still develop cavities and gum disease. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are necessary to ensure the health of the supporting structures.
Are there any specific cleaning tools recommended for dental implants?
Yes, there are special cleaning tools designed for dental implants, such as interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide guidance on the most suitable cleaning tools for your specific implant type and restoration.
What should I do if I experience any discomfort or notice any issues with my dental implants?
If you experience any discomfort, swelling, loosening of the implant, or other concerns related to your dental implants, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Prompt professional evaluation and treatment can help address any potential problems and ensure the long-term success of your implants.
Can dental implants stain or discolor over time?
Dental implants are typically resistant to staining or discoloration. The materials used in their construction are designed to be durable and maintain their appearance. However, it's important to avoid excessive consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco to prevent any potential discoloration of the surrounding natural teeth.
Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with Dr. Michael Yeh, Dr. Ray Wong, or Dr. Michael Nguyen for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your specific dental needs and conditions. For any questions or concerns, please call our Federal Way office at (253) 838-1225.
Testimonials
Every Smile Has A Different Story
Would you like to write a review?
We'd love to hear from you!
Federal Way Dental Excellence
Visit our modern Federal Way dentist office
