Get the Most Out of Thanksgiving Dinner with Dental Implants!

Thanksgiving is almost here. Whether you are eager to cook your favorite dishes or catch up with family, one thing is for sure. You are going to have a delicious meal. However, if you are missing teeth, there may be extra steps you need to take, like cutting your food into small pieces, cooking tough vegetables longer, or just sticking to softer options. Think about how much more you could get out of next Thanksgiving by replacing your missing teeth with dental implants!

How Will Dental Implants Benefit You?

There are many ways that dental implants will enhance your future Thanksgivings. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

• Increased Confidence: When it is time to speak with family and friends and smile for the camera, you can do so without being self-conscious of your missing teeth.
• Eat with Ease: When you chew your food, you don’t need to worry about your dentures slipping around or being unable to chew tough foods.
• Improved Oral Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, keeping it strong and healthy!

How Does the Dental Implant Process Work?

Getting dental implants takes more than just a trip or two to the dentist. The entire process can take 3 to 9 months depending on the complexity of your case and whether or not you require preliminary procedures. Here’s a brief look into the dental implant process:

• Consultation: Getting dental implants begins with an initial consultation. At this time, your dentist will examine your smile to ensure that you are a good candidate. Then, they will put together a treatment plan to meet your needs. Preliminary treatments can be scheduled if necessary.
• Placement Surgery: If everything looks good, your dental implant placement procedure can be scheduled. Dental implants are placed in precise, strategic locations in the jawbone and covered with protective caps.
• Osseointegration: Over the next few months, your gums will heal and the implants fuse to the jawbone in a process called “osseointegration.” Then, abutments are placed and your restoration can be custom crafted for your smile.
• Restoration Delivery: Your dentist will attach your final restorations to your dental implants via the abutments, leaving you with a beautiful, complete smile!

Are you ready for your next Thanksgiving to include all of the holiday specialties? From turkey, ham, and stuffing to mac & cheese, glazed carrots, and pecan pie, you can be fully satisfied with your meal and your smile!

About the Author

Dr. Chitra P. Naik has been serving patients in and around the Flint community since 1995. She originally studied dentistry from the Government Dental College in Mumbai, India before moving to the United States and pursuing her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She continues to stay active with the Genesee District Dental Society and Michigan Dental Association Conventions to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (810) 235-5422.