When you decide to get dental implants, your oral surgeon becomes a partner in your future oral health. Your doctor’s care for dental implants will directly affect your appearance, comfort, and quality of life. Implants are an excellent tooth replacement option, but they’ll need extra care for as long as you have them. Your relationship with your oral surgeon will be key to continued oral health. That relationship begins at the first consultation and, when you work with Dr. Slavin, it lasts for the life of the implant. 

Personalized Care From the Start

Personalized care starts at the first consultation. Dr. Slavin and his team treat every patient like a whole person, with unique physical and emotional needs. Personalized care includes listening to, understanding, and addressing your health history, challenges, and concerns. 

The development of your treatment plan revolves around what’s best for your oral health. However, your personal responsibilities and schedule are factored in as well, so you and your oral surgeon can create a timeline that works with the rhythm of your life.  

 That includes pre-procedure and post-procedure care. For some, that may include building up the bone structure to better support the implant. For others, it’s determining the projected schedule for each stage of the implant process because factors like infection or underlying health conditions may require a longer or shorter plan. The oral surgeon will work with you to develop a plan that sets you on a path to implant success. 

Information and Education

Before you get your dental implant, the care team will go over the entire treatment plan with you, from start to finish. You’ll know what to expect and how to care for your teeth and gums throughout the implant process. 

 The care team will also prepare you with the skills to care for your dental implant. After surgery, dental implants act much like natural teeth, and their daily maintenance is similar to natural teeth, too. Good daily oral hygiene creates the best possible conditions for healing and for the implant to fully integrate with the jawbone and gums. You’ll get toothbrush recommendations, flossing tips, and a suggested schedule for regular dental check-ups. 

Regular Check-Ups

The doctor’s care for implants doesn’t end after the final crown is in place. For a time, you’ll receive regular check-ups with the oral surgeon every three or four months. Regular dental cleanings with a dental hygienist familiar with dental implants can help maintain the health of the teeth and gums directly surrounding the implant. 

 These initial check-ups will also be a time to make sure you’re developing the hygiene habits to maintain the implant long-term. Twice daily brushing and flossing aren’t just recommendations. They’re imperative to the success and health of your teeth, gums, and bone structure. 

Free Follow-Ups for Life

Dr. Slavin provides free yearly follow-ups for the life of your dental implant. Dental implants may last decades or for the rest of your life, creating a long-term partnership between you and your oral surgeon. You don’t need to worry about putting the check-up on your calendar a year in advance. The care team will contact you to schedule the appointment a few weeks in advance. 

 This annual visit makes sure that the implant remains sound. It includes reminders about proper brushing techniques and recommendations based on any changes in the teeth and gums.  

A Lifetime Commitment

When you work with the team at Good Samaritan Dental Institute, you’re a patient and friend for life. Call 561-833-6880 to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a better, healthier smile.