You may need dental implants if one or more of your teeth are missing. Made with titanium metal, a dental implant is used to insert an artificial replacement tooth into your jawbone. Dental implants are similar to installing a bridge or getting dentures, except that the implants are considered a more permanent solution.
Dental implants come with many benefits. The most popular benefit is that dental implants serve as a natural looking substitute for missing teeth. In addition, the implants can improve your dental health, make eating easier, and decrease the chances of cavities. Plus, the dental implants are quite easy to care for, and most people won’t even notice that you have them.
Do you think a dental implant is right for you? Just remember that this type of dental product could be quite costly. It’s best to check with your dental insurance plan before committing to the surgery. On the bright side, the procedure will only be a one-time cost and then you won’t have anything additional to pay for in relation to your dental implant surgery.
Let’s learn more about what to expect from your first set of dental implants.
Are you a good candidate for dental implants?
First off, you’ll need to determine that you are a good fit for dental implants. Most importantly, you need to be in good health and have healthy gums before moving forward with a dental implant. There also needs to be adequate bone in the jaw to secure the implants. On the other hand, if your jawbone has shrunk or not developed normally, you may need a bone graft to help build the bone back up.
In your first appointment, your teeth will be examined by a dentist. Once they determine that you meet the requirements for a dental implant, you’re good to move on to the procedure. Remember that you’ll need to commit several months to get dental implants. It’s highly advised to sort out gum diseases with dentists alhambra before committing to dental implants too. Keep in mind that it will not be a quick process and you may need to miss some school or work.
Know the risks
Before moving on to the procedure, make sure that you are well aware of the risks of dental implants. Although these risks are rare, it’s still a good idea to be aware of them. One of the most common side effects of dental implants is an infection at the implantation site. The risk of infection increases with a lack of proper dental care says this dentist who does Invisalign in Williamsburg VA.
Other risks include injury or damage to your surrounding teeth or blood vessels. You may also suffer from sinus problems due to implants being placed in the upper jaw and then protruding into one of your sinus cavities. Nerve damage is another common symptom. You can ask your dentist to review these in more detail.
How the procedure works
Once your dentist determines that you are a good fit for a dental implant, they will refer you to a dental specialist who is experienced and trained in dental implants. Usually, these specialists are periodontists or oral and maxillofacial surgeons (also known as dental surgeons).
When you have seen this specialist and they have assessed your condition, you will then get an appointment to come in for the implantation. They may have openings right away, or you may need to wait sometime, depending on the severity of your case.
During the procedure, your dental specialist will insert a dental implant into your jawbone. This is done beneath the gum tissue and is then stitched back into place. You’ll come back for the second stage once your tissue has fully healed. At your second appointment, your dental specialist will attach a post to the implant. Then a fake tooth is created and attached to the post. Be prepared to go back several times to properly fit the new tooth to the post.
Caring for dental implants
Once your dental implants are in place they will act just like regular teeth. That makes caring for them quite easy. All you need to do is brush and floss as you do with your regular teeth. Before you leave the dental specialist’s office, they will give you a quick run-through on how to care for them.
Your dental specialist will also encourage you to go back for a follow-up dental appointment. At this appointment, your specialist will make sure that your dental implants are properly in place and that your bite is still good. If there is anything of concern, your dental specialist will address it right away and may even suggest you come back for another appointment.
If you have questions or concerns about your dental implant before your follow-up appointment, you can always call the dental office. You may even be able to get a sooner appointment depending on the nature and severity of the problem.