Patients suffering from tooth loss due to injury, tooth decay, or gum disease find dental implant to be life-changing. Dentures improve speech and chewing ability, preventing the possibility of further jaw bone loss.
They restore a stunning smile and help boost self-confidence and self-esteem. Here, you will find tips on what to expect during your dental implant procedure.
Implants are a favored treatment option for missing or missing teeth due to their high long-term success rate, estimated in the clinical literature to be approximately 95 percent. Dental implant are another to bridges and dentures, which were once the primary methods of replacing missing teeth.
The implant looks and acts like a usual tooth. When installing the device, a titanium root is first carefully inserted into the jaw. The healing process at this stage takes about three months before the implant fuses with the bone.
At this time, an abutment is placed on the “root,” with a porcelain crown placed on top of the abutment, creating a new, improved smile.
Preparing For Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implants patients hoping to achieve the greatest success with their procedures should be prepared accordingly.
Here are some tips to help you be fully prepared.
Dental Consultation
During your consultation, your dentist can evaluate whether you are a candidate for implants. The specialist will explain the way in detail so you know what to expect. It is during this session that any questions or problems are resolved.
The dentist will review your past medical history to ensure there are no problems or medications that might interfere with the procedure. It is important to provide a thorough and accurate current medical history.
Smoking cessation
The risk of implant failure surges with smoking. The dentist will recommend that smokers quit the habit approximately two weeks before getting the implants.
Planning for the surgery
Before the day of surgery, it is recommended to schedule a break from work if necessary for recovery and rest after the procedure. You will also need to arrange transportation to and from the clinic on the day of your surgery.
The dentist will provide preoperative instructions on foods and drinks to avoid and oral care to follow until the day of surgery.
The Dental implants procedure
During dental implant surgery, an artificial root is implanted into the bone. The root provides a strong and stable foundation for replacing lost teeth.
During the process, your dentist will perform an inspection and take X-rays to evaluate the condition of your jawbone, gums, and surrounding teeth. Your specialist will create a modified care plan based on your specific needs and preferences.
On the day of surgery, local painkilling will be administered to numb the area where the implant will be placed. Small incisions will be made to picture the bone underneath the gum tissue.
There are small holes in the bone to accommodate the implant post, which is usually made of titanium. These materials must be properly integrated into the bone tissue and promote natural healing.
Once securely placed, the gums are sutured to close the incisions. It takes about three months for the new bone cells to integrate with the implanted post, after which the implant can be considered permanent.
Picking The Right Dental Implant
Selecting the right dental implants can be a daunting task in hopes of achieving optimal surgical success. With so many options available, there are many factors to consider.
The implant material is usually titanium, a durable option that has been used with incredible success throughout history. Another material that is popular due to its biocompatibility and natural appearance is zirconium.
The dentist examines the tooth space and jawbone structure to recommend the appropriate implant shape and size. The dentist will ask if you prefer a two-piece or one-piece design. With a one-piece implant, the surgical procedure is more complex, but the device requires less equipment.
The two-piece abutment offers individual abutments for adjustment after installation. You can also choose an angled abutment or an immediate loading implant if that is what you need.
Your dentist will discuss these details during your consultation and make appropriate recommendations for your specific situation.
During And Following Implant Surgery
Your dentist will use a local anesthetic during your dental implants surgery or sedation, depending on your preference and your doctor’s recommendations. Before placing the implant, your specialist will remove any remaining structure to ensure the area is ready to receive the titanium root.
It is important to understand the swelling and discomfort that often occurs after surgery. The dentist will write prescriptions for pain medications and antibiotics to relieve symptoms. Bleeding is rare and can be exact, such as gently biting down on the gauze until it stops.
Resting for approximately 48+ hours is recommended to avoid any active activity that could lead to further swelling or bleeding. To rinse, use a saltwater solution for two weeks, four times a day.
You can then return to your normal oral hygiene routine. To achieve maximum success with dental implants, it is important to follow the pre-and post-operative instructions carefully.
