How Do You Protect Your Dental Work?

by Dr. Stefan | Dec 3, 2025 | Dental Care

How Do You Protect Your Dental Work?

At Stefan Family Dental, our goal is to help patients in Westerville maintain strong, healthy smiles that look and feel their best. Whether you recently completed a crown, bridge, filling, root canal, or dental implant restoration, proper care is essential for long-lasting results. With the right habits at home and consistent professional guidance, your dental work can stay comfortable, functional, and attractive for many years.

This Article Will Address

How to care for a new crown or bridge
What to expect after a dental filling
Foods to avoid following root canal treatment
How to clean properly around a dental implant
When to return for follow up care
How Stefan Family Dental supports long-term oral health

How Should I Care for a New Crown or Bridge?

A new crown or bridge restores strength and stability to an affected tooth, but it still requires thoughtful care. During the first few days, you may notice mild temperature sensitivity or a slight difference in how your bite feels. This typically improves as the tooth settles, but gentle habits help the restoration adapt.

To protect a crown or bridge at home, we recommend the following steps:

Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Clean between the teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner to remove plaque around the margins.
Avoid chewing ice, pens, or other hard objects that can damage porcelain.
Use a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth.
Keep up with routine checkups so your dentist can evaluate the fit of the restoration.

Crowns and bridges are designed to be durable, but like natural teeth, they benefit from consistent care. Protecting them early helps ensure your bite remains comfortable and stable.

Can I Eat Normally After a Dental Filling?

Most dental fillings allow you to return to your regular meals on the same day, especially when a tooth-colored composite material is used. Composite hardens fully under a curing light, which means you can chew on it right away. Even so, the tooth may feel slightly sensitive for a few hours as the anesthetic wears off.

We recommend the following after a filling:

Start with softer foods until your bite feels normal.
Chew on the opposite side if the tooth is sensitive.
Avoid extremely hot or cold beverages for the first day if you notice temperature sensitivity.
Continue brushing and flossing gently around the tooth.

If sensitivity lasts longer than a few days, we encourage patients to contact our office so we can make sure the bite is aligned correctly.

What Foods Should I Avoid After Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal removes infection and saves the natural tooth, but the area may feel tender for a short time afterward. Choosing the right foods can make recovery more comfortable and protect the temporary or permanent restoration placed on the tooth.

We recommend avoiding:

Hard foods like nuts, crackers, or raw vegetables
Sticky foods such as caramel or taffy
Very chewy foods that strain the treated tooth
Biting directly on the tooth until sensitivity improves

Comfortable options include yogurt, soft fruits, oatmeal, soups, and scrambled eggs. Once the permanent crown is placed and tenderness resolves, most patients can return to their regular diet without restrictions.

How Do I Clean Around a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are one of the most reliable tooth replacement options, but they require careful cleaning to protect the surrounding gum tissue. Unlike natural teeth, an implant cannot develop decay, but plaque buildup can irritate the gums and compromise the stability of the implant over time.

At-home implant cleaning should include:

Brushing twice daily along the gumline
Using floss, interdental brushes, or implant-safe cleaning tools
Gently cleaning behind the crown where plaque often collects
Using antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended

Our office uses advanced diagnostics like digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and cone beam CT imaging to monitor implant health. Routine exams help ensure the bone and gums around the implant remain healthy.

When Should I Follow Up After Treatment?

Follow up timing depends on the type of dental work you received. Most patients benefit from a short check-in to confirm healing and bite comfort.

General guidelines include:

Fillings: Follow up if sensitivity lasts more than several days.
Crowns and Bridges: Routine evaluation during your next cleaning unless there is discomfort.
Implants: Regular monitoring at every checkup and additional imaging as needed.
Root Canal Treatment: A follow up visit to place the permanent crown if one has not already been completed.

At Stefan Family Dental, we value communication and clarity. Our team encourages patients to call if they notice unusual symptoms or changes in their bite. For urgent concerns after office hours, our recorded message will guide you to the appropriate emergency contact number.

Why Choose Stefan Family Dental?

Protecting dental work is easier when you have a team that prioritizes long-term oral health and clear guidance. Stefan Family Dental has served the Westerville community for over 40 years and continues to focus on elevating patient expectations through exceptional care and personalized treatment planning.

Patients choose our practice because we offer:

A strong legacy of patient-centered dentistry built on trust and communication
A comprehensive range of services that support preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency needs
Modern diagnostic technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, cone beam CT scanning, and panoramic imaging
A formal, professional approach that ensures every patient understands their options and expected outcomes
An experienced team that tailors care to individual goals, comfort, and lifestyle
A commitment to predictable, long-lasting results backed by ongoing maintenance and education

From gentle cleanings to advanced restorative treatments, our office is equipped to help patients protect their investment in their smile.

Protect Your Dental Work With Trusted Care at Stefan Family Dental

Protecting dental work is a partnership between professional treatment and daily habits at home. Our Westerville practice offers preventive care, restorative dentistry, cosmetic services, emergency treatment, and comprehensive checkups supported by advanced dental technology. Stefan Family Dental is committed to elevating expectations through exceptional care and clear communication.

Contact us by phone, email, or through our website to schedule an appointment or follow up on recent treatment. We look forward to helping you maintain a confident, healthy smile.

Sources

American Dental Association

American Association of Endodontists

Academy of Osseointegration

Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

What Are Natural-Looking Solutions for Cavities?

by Dr. Stefan | Nov 3, 2025 | Dental Care

What Are Natural-Looking Solutions for Cavities?

Cavities can take away from the health and appearance of your smile, but modern dentistry offers ways to restore your teeth that look as natural as they feel. At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, we use advanced materials and technology to create restorations that blend seamlessly with your natural enamel.

If you have a cavity or an old silver filling you’d like replaced, our team can help restore your smile’s natural beauty and strength with customized, tooth-colored fillings designed to match your natural teeth.

This Article Will Address

What are natural-looking solutions for cavities?
Can fillings match natural tooth color?
What materials are used in tooth-colored fillings?
How do composite fillings compare to metal fillings?
How are fillings placed?
How to care for natural-looking fillings?
Why choose Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH?

Can Cavity Fillings Match My Natural Tooth Color?

Yes. Tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin, a material carefully designed to blend in with your natural enamel. At Stefan Family Dental, we use precise digital imaging and shade-matching technology to ensure your dental restoration is indistinguishable from your surrounding teeth.

With advanced tools like digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and cone beam CT, Dr. Zachary N. Stefan can plan and place fillings that restore strength and beauty to your teeth while maintaining a completely natural appearance.

Benefits of tooth-colored fillings include:

Seamless blending with your natural enamel
No visible metal or discoloration over time
Suitable for both front and back teeth
Long-lasting comfort and durability

What Materials Are Used in Tooth-Colored Fillings?

The most common natural-looking solution for cavities is composite resin, a mixture of fine glass and BPA-free acrylic. This material bonds securely to enamel and dentin, allowing for smaller, more conservative fillings that preserve your tooth structure.

In addition to composite resin, modern restorative dentistry may use other materials when appropriate:

Ceramic fillings for larger or highly visible restorations
Glass ionomer for pediatric or low-stress areas

Each material is selected for its safety, strength, and biocompatibility, ensuring both functional and aesthetic success. At Stefan Family Dental, we proudly provide mercury-free restorations that reflect our commitment to modern, patient-focused care.

Quick summary:

Composite resin: best for natural aesthetics
Ceramic: durable and stain-resistant
Amalgam: older metal material, less aesthetic

How Do Composite Fillings Compare to Metal Fillings?

Metal fillings were once the standard for repairing cavities, but modern composite fillings offer several important advantages for both appearance and comfort. Composite materials bond directly to enamel, which means less drilling and more preservation of your natural tooth structure.

Key differences between composite and metal fillings:

Appearance: Composite fillings match your natural enamel, while metal fillings appear silver or gray.
Material: Composite is made from resin and glass, while metal (amalgam) contains mercury and other alloys.
Durability: Composite fillings last about 7–10 years with proper care; amalgam may last slightly longer but lacks the natural look.
Tooth Preservation: Composite requires minimal enamel removal; amalgam often needs more tooth structure removed.
Comfort: Composite insulates your tooth from hot and cold temperatures and eliminates the metallic taste some patients notice with metal fillings.

How Are Fillings Placed?

The process of getting a natural-looking filling is comfortable, efficient, and precise. Dr. Stefan uses the latest technology to ensure accuracy and comfort at every stage.

Here’s what to expect:

A digital exam and cavity detection using advanced imaging
Gentle local anesthesia to ensure complete comfort
Careful removal of decay using rotary handpieces
Placement of composite resin in layers, each cured with a blue light
Shaping, polishing, and bite adjustment for a smooth, natural feel

This detailed approach ensures the filling not only looks great but also functions perfectly. Every restoration is customized to your smile, giving you long-lasting results you can rely on.

How Do You Care for Natural-Looking Fillings to Make Them Last Longer?

Caring for your tooth-colored fillings is much like caring for your natural teeth. With good daily habits and regular dental visits, they can last for many years.

Tips for long-term care:

Brush and floss daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects
Limit foods and drinks that cause staining, such as coffee, red wine, and tobacco
Maintain a balanced diet to support healthy enamel
Schedule regular checkups and professional cleanings

Regular visits for cleanings and exams at Stefan Family Dental help ensure your fillings stay strong and beautiful while catching any small issues early.

Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Safe and Long-Lasting?

Tooth-colored fillings are completely safe and mercury-free. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, they typically last seven to ten years or more. At Stefan Family Dental, we use advanced bonding systems and precision curing lights to maximize durability and ensure your restoration remains secure and comfortable.

Composite fillings are an excellent choice for patients who value both safety and appearance, providing strength and stability without compromising the natural look of your smile.

Why Choose Stefan Family Dental for Natural-Looking Cavity Repair in Westerville, OH?

For over 40 years, Stefan Family Dental has been a trusted name in the Westerville community, offering comprehensive dental care grounded in compassion, precision, and lasting relationships. Our practice combines time-tested experience with modern technology to provide results that patients can trust.

Why patients choose us:

Advanced diagnostic tools including digital X-rays, cone beam CT, and intraoral cameras
Over four decades serving Westerville with patient-first dental care
Member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, and Columbus Dental Society
Personalized treatment plans led by Dr. Zachary N. Stefan and his experienced team
Comfortable, community-focused environment with emergency care options

Whether you need a new filling or wish to replace an older one, Stefan Family Dental offers natural-looking, conservative treatments that restore confidence and comfort.

Schedule Your Natural-Looking Cavity Treatment Today

At Stefan Family Dental, we believe every patient deserves a smile that looks and feels natural. With modern tooth-colored fillings, we can restore damaged or decayed teeth while maintaining the beauty and integrity of your smile.

Call, email, or contact us online to schedule your appointment today and experience dentistry designed around your comfort, health, and confidence.

Sources

Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

How Do Dentists Treat Cracked or Fractured Teeth?

by Dr. Stefan | Oct 2, 2025 | Dental Care

How Do Dentists Treat Cracked or Fractured Teeth?

Cracked or fractured teeth can happen suddenly and often bring discomfort, sensitivity, or sharp pain when chewing. At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, we understand how urgent and unsettling this situation can feel. For more than 40 years, our practice has combined compassionate care with advanced dental technology to deliver predictable results for families in our community.

Led by Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, our team uses state-of-the-art tools like cone beam CT imaging, digital X-rays, and intraoral cameras to accurately diagnose cracks and create customized treatment plans. The good news is that many cracked teeth can be saved when treated early. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, treatments may include bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy, while some severe cases require extraction.

Timely care matters. The sooner a cracked tooth is treated, the more likely it can be preserved.

This Article will address

What are the types of tooth fractures?
Can a cracked tooth be saved?
What treatments are used for a fractured tooth?
Does a cracked tooth always need a crown?
How can I prevent further cracking?
What should I do if my tooth cracks suddenly?
What is the recovery and prognosis for cracked teeth?

What Are the Types of Tooth Fractures?

Not all cracks are the same, and identifying the type helps guide the best treatment. Common categories include:

Craze lines: tiny surface cracks in the enamel, usually cosmetic and not painful.
Fractured cusp: a piece of the chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling.
Treatable cracked tooth: the crack extends vertically but the tooth can often be saved with a crown and possibly root canal therapy.
Split tooth: the tooth separates into distinct parts, usually requiring extraction.
Vertical root fracture: the crack begins in the root and extends upward, often difficult to save.

Can a Cracked Tooth Be Saved?

Yes, many cracked teeth can be saved, but timing is crucial. If the crack is diagnosed early and does not extend below the gum line, restorative treatments such as crowns or root canal therapy can preserve the natural tooth. When a fracture runs deep into the root or splits the tooth entirely, extraction may be necessary. At Stefan Family Dental, advanced diagnostics like cone beam CT allow us to catch cracks early and provide the most effective solution.

What Treatments Are Used for a Fractured Tooth?

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the crack:

Minor cracks: cosmetic bonding or composite fillings restore the tooth surface.
Moderate cracks: dental crowns provide strength and protect the structure.
Deep cracks reaching the pulp: root canal therapy followed by a crown helps prevent infection and stabilize the tooth.
Root-level fractures: endodontic surgery or extraction may be required if the tooth cannot be saved.

Our practice offers a full range of restorative and emergency services, including crowns, bridges, and root canal therapy, ensuring every patient receives comprehensive dental care under one roof.

Does a Cracked Tooth Always Need a Crown?

Not every cracked tooth requires a crown. Smaller fractures may be repaired with bonding, veneers, or fillings. However, crowns are often recommended for moderate to severe cracks because they provide long-term protection and durability. At Stefan Family Dental, we use modern crown technology to ensure precise fit and lasting results.

How Can I Prevent Further Cracking?

Prevention plays a key role in long-term oral health. Steps you can take include:

Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or hard candies
Wear a sports guard during athletic activities
Use a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth
Schedule regular dental exams for early detection

These proactive measures, combined with routine care at Stefan Family Dental, protect your smile and reduce the risk of future fractures.

Emergency Guidance: What Should I Do If My Tooth Cracks Suddenly?

If you experience a sudden crack or fracture, follow these steps right away:

Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
Avoid chewing on the affected tooth
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if needed
Call Stefan Family Dental immediately for an emergency appointment

We offer same-day emergency care whenever possible, ensuring your urgent needs are handled promptly and professionally.

What Is the Recovery and Prognosis for Cracked Teeth?

Recovery time depends on the treatment performed. Bonding and fillings often require minimal downtime, while crowns or root canals may need follow-up visits. With proper care and regular checkups, repaired teeth can last for many years. Our practice provides detailed post-treatment instructions, so patients know exactly how to protect and maintain their restored teeth.

Why Choose Stefan Family Dental for Emergency Tooth Repairs?

When a dental emergency strikes, you need a team that responds quickly and treats you with care. At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, we offer immediate appointments whenever possible so your cracked or fractured tooth can be evaluated and treated without delay.

Patients trust us because:

Decades of experience: Our practice has been serving the Westerville community for more than 40 years.
Advanced diagnostics: Cone beam CT, intraoral cameras, and digital X-rays allow for precise evaluation and treatment planning.
Comprehensive care: From bonding and crowns to root canal therapy and emergency extractions, all treatments are available under one roof.
Patient-first approach: Clear communication and personalized care plans help you understand every step of your treatment.
Local commitment: As part of the Westerville community, we prioritize accessibility and continuity of care for every patient.

When every minute counts, Stefan Family Dental provides the expertise, technology, and compassionate approach you need to protect your smile.

Trusted Care for Cracked and Fractured Teeth

Cracked or fractured teeth are common, but they do not have to mean losing your natural tooth. With modern diagnostic technology and decades of trusted care, Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH provides tailored treatment plans that protect your oral health and restore your smile.

If you suspect a cracked or fractured tooth, do not wait. Call or book online to schedule your appointment with Stefan Family Dental and safeguard your smile.

Sources

Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

When Are Root Canals Needed and How Do They Help?

by Dr. Stefan | Aug 28, 2025 | Dental Care

When Are Root Canals Needed and How Do They Help?

Root canal therapy is often misunderstood, yet it is one of the most effective ways to relieve dental pain and preserve a natural tooth. At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, root canals are recommended when decay or infection reaches the inner portion of a tooth, known as the pulp. Left untreated, this infection can cause swelling, severe discomfort, or abscesses. Root canals are designed to clean out the infection, restore comfort, and save your natural tooth from extraction.

Stefan Family Dental has provided quality care to the Westerville community for more than 40 years. With advanced technology, including CBCT imaging and rotary endodontic tools, our team ensures root canal therapy is precise, efficient, and focused on long-term results.

This Article will address

What a root canal is and why it may be needed
Signs that indicate you may require root canal therapy
How root canals save natural teeth
What happens if a root canal goes untreated
Whether abscessed teeth must be pulled
What to expect during treatment at Stefan Family Dental
Recovery and aftercare
Why patients in Westerville choose Stefan Family Dental for root canal therapy

What Is a Root Canal and Why Might You Need One?

A root canal is a general dental treatment designed to remove infection from the inner chamber of a tooth and protect it from future damage. When deep decay, cracks, dental trauma, or an abscess allows bacteria to reach the pulp, a root canal is often the only way to stop the infection while preserving the natural tooth structure.

It is important to know that root canal therapy does not cause pain. It is the infection that does. The treatment relieves pain by removing the source of the problem and sealing the tooth to restore health.

Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

If you notice any of the following, it may be time to consult with our team:

Persistent or severe toothache
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
Swelling in the gums or jaw near the affected tooth
Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
Pus, drainage, or the presence of an abscess

Recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely treatment and can prevent the infection from spreading further.

How Do Root Canals Help Save Teeth?

Patients often ask, “Can a root canal save teeth?” The answer is yes. By removing the infected pulp and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, a root canal allows us to preserve the natural outer structure. After the procedure, most teeth are restored with a dental crown for added strength and long-term function.

At Stefan Family Dental, preserving natural teeth has been a priority for decades. Saving your tooth means you can maintain natural chewing ability, protect surrounding teeth, and avoid more extensive dental work.

What Happens If a Root Canal Goes Untreated?

Another common concern is, “How long can a tooth that needs a root canal go untreated?” Unfortunately, untreated infections only get worse. A tooth that requires a root canal can quickly develop an abscess, which may lead to:

Worsening pain and swelling
Spread of infection to other teeth or even the jawbone
Tooth loss requiring extraction and replacement
Complications that affect overall health

Because of these risks, our office provides emergency dental care, ensuring patients can be seen quickly when urgent needs arise.

Will a Tooth Be Pulled if It’s Abscessed?

Patients sometimes ask, “Will they pull a tooth if it’s abscessed?” While tooth extraction is an option, it is not the first choice. At Stefan Family Dental, we make every effort to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. Root canal therapy is often the best way to treat an abscessed tooth, as it eliminates infection and restores function without the need for removal.

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment at Stefan Family Dental

Our process is designed for comfort, accuracy, and predictable results. A typical root canal visit includes:

Numbing the tooth to ensure a comfortable experience.
Using digital imaging and CBCT scans for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
Creating a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Cleaning and shaping the canals with advanced rotary instruments.
Disinfecting and sealing the canals to prevent reinfection.
Restoring the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling, often followed by a crown.

Our team emphasizes communication at every step, so you know what to expect and feel confident in your care.

Recovery After a Root Canal

Following treatment, patients may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days. This is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter medication. Stefan Family Dental provides detailed post-endodontic instructions to help you care for the treated tooth at home.

Most patients return to normal activities the same day and enjoy lasting relief from tooth pain once the tooth has healed. If unusual symptoms occur, our emergency contact process ensures you have support whenever needed.

Why Choose Stefan Family Dental for Root Canal Therapy in Westerville, OH?

For over 40 years, our practice has combined advanced dental technology with a patient-first approach. Patients choose Stefan Family Dental because:

We are deeply rooted in the Westerville community and committed to long-term relationships.
Our office features modern diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CBCT scans.
We value transparency and communication, ensuring every patient understands their treatment plan.
Dr. Zachary N. Stefan is a member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, and Columbus Dental Society, reflecting our commitment to professional excellence.

Protect Your Smile with Root Canal Therapy in Westerville, OH

Root canals are a proven way to stop infection, relieve pain, and save natural teeth. At Stefan Family Dental, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to ensure every patient receives treatment that is both comfortable and effective.

Call Stefan Family Dental today or book online to schedule your root canal therapy in Westerville, OH.

Sources

Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

What to Expect Before, During, and After a Dental Implant in Westerville, OH

by Dr. Stefan | Jul 25, 2025 | Dental Care

What to Expect Before, During, and After a Dental Implant in Westerville, OH

This Article Will Address:

What happens before, during, and after a dental implant
How long the dental implant process takes from start to finish
Whether you’ll need to go without teeth during treatment
If same-day extractions and implants are possible
How to manage missing teeth while waiting for implants
Who qualifies for dental implants
Post-surgical care tips
Why Westerville patients trust Stefan Family Dental

Considering Dental Implants But Unsure What to Expect?

At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, we understand that choosing a dental implant is a big decision. Our goal is to give you clear guidance from consultation to crown, so you know exactly what’s ahead and feel confident about your care. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your dental implant procedure with us.

Before a Dental Implant: How to Prepare

Getting ready for a dental implant starts with careful planning. At your consultation, we’ll perform a full oral evaluation using advanced imaging tools like digital X-rays and our cone beam CT scanner to assess bone density and gum health.

Here’s what’s included in your pre-op planning:

A personalized dental treatment plan based on your health, goals, and anatomy
Medical history review to ensure safe care
Bone grafting discussion if jawbone support is insufficient
Pre-surgical instructions such as:

Fasting before sedation or anesthesia
Avoiding tobacco use
Arranging for a ride home

During a Dental Implant: What Happens on Surgery Day

The day of your procedure is carefully managed for your comfort and safety. You’ll receive local anesthesia or sedation, depending on the treatment plan. If a tooth extraction is part of the process, it can often be done at the same visit.

Here’s what happens during surgery:

The titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone
Small stitches may be used to close the gum tissue
Mild swelling or bleeding is normal and expected
The entire procedure typically takes 1 hour per implant

We’ll send you home with thorough aftercare instructions and medication guidance to support your recovery.

After a Dental Implant: Healing and Recovery Timeline

Recovery begins as soon as your implant is placed. Your mouth will begin the process of osseointegration, where the implant fuses to your jawbone—a critical step that creates long-term stability.

What to expect after surgery:

Mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising for a few days
Pain can be managed with Tylenol, ibuprofen, or prescribed medications
Soft foods and cool liquids are recommended for the first 48–72 hours
Osseointegration typically takes 3–6 months
Once healed, we’ll place your custom abutment and crown for a seamless smile

How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants From Start to Finish?

The total implant timeline varies depending on healing needs, bone quality, and the number of teeth involved.

Here’s a general breakdown:

Consultation + Imaging: 1–2 weeks
Implant Placement + Healing: 3–6 months
Crown Placement: 2–4 weeks after healing

Total Treatment Time: Typically 4–8 months

Can You Get Teeth Extracted and Implants at the Same Time?

Yes—this is known as immediate implant placement. In many cases, we can extract a tooth and place the implant in the same visit, minimizing overall treatment time.

Ideal candidates for this include:

Healthy patients with good bone volume
Non-smokers or those who are quitting
Individuals with no active infection at the site

Dr. Stefan will evaluate your eligibility during your implant consultation.

How Can I Cover My Missing Teeth While Waiting for the Implant?

If you’re not a candidate for immediate implants or need healing time after a bone graft, we’ll still make sure you don’t go without a complete smile.

Interim solutions include:

Removable partial dentures
Temporary bridges
Snap-on smile devices

These temporary prosthetics are comfortable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an excellent solution for most adults missing one or more teeth. You may be a candidate if:

You have healthy gums and enough bone to support an implant
You are a non-smoker (or committed to quitting)
You maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
You do not have uncontrolled diabetes or immune system issues

Not sure if you’re eligible? Our team will perform a full health and dental evaluation to help you decide confidently.

Post-Surgical Tips for a Smooth Recovery

To protect your healing and ensure the best results:

Keep your head elevated for the first 24 hours
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
Avoid using straws or smoking for 72 hours
Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days
Rinse gently with warm salt water starting on day 2
Follow up at Stefan Family Dental for regular healing checks

Why Choose Stefan Family Dental for Dental Implants in Westerville, OH?

For over 40 years, Stefan Family Dental has earned the trust of Westerville families by delivering comprehensive, compassionate dental care backed by advanced technology and personalized attention.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Expertly trained in implant restorations and full-scope restorative care
Cone beam CT and digital tools for precision placement
Warm, patient-first experience in a modern dental setting
Same-day appointments available for urgent needs
Full-service dental team to support every stage of treatment

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re considering dental implants in Westerville, OH, you deserve expert guidance and a practice that treats you like family. At Stefan Family Dental, we’ll walk with you from the first visit to your final crown, ensuring comfort, clarity, and confidence every step of the way. Call us today or schedule online to book your dental implant consultation. We look forward to helping you smile with strength again.

Sources:

Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.