Dental Implants 80371

Dental implants are small, threaded metal anchors designed to replace tooth roots and support replacement teeth. Titanium is a biocompatible and strong material that integrates into the jaw bone. Dental implants can help to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and bone loss in the area where the gap is. Unlike traditional dentures, which require removal and cleaning, implant-supported replacement teeth are permanent and will not slip or rub.

You will need to undergo a complete Smile Design Studio dental exam to determine if you are a candidate for dental implant surgery. Patients must have sufficient healthy bone to hold the implants and be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Smokers, those with chronic diseases (such as heart disease or diabetes) and those who have received radiation therapy in the head/neck region may experience a slower healing process and integration of implants.

During the initial consultation, your dental professional will explain the treatment process, including how long it will take and how many appointments are necessary. Options for local anesthesia and sedation dentistry will also be discussed. It is important that you provide a list of all medications and supplements before the procedure. Some can interfere with healing or cause complications. You should also tell your dentist if you've had a history with gum disease. This can make it harder to place and maintain dental implant.

Surgical placement of the implant takes place under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during this time. Normal swelling and bruising on the face and gums is normal following the surgery. However, it should be minimal. For five to seven days after the surgery, you should eat only soft foods and avoid chewing on the implant site. If your dentist used sutures, these will be removed at a follow-up visit. Your dental professional will also give you instructions about caring for your teeth and implants, including recommendations for diet, if applicable.

After the surgery, the implant takes several months to heal and fuse with bone. This process is called osseointegration. Once this occurs, a metal spacer is placed on the implant that allows a crown to be fabricated and placed on the implant.

The dental implant process is complicated and varies from patient to patient, but it is important for you to be aware of what to expect so that you can work with your dentist and oral surgeon to achieve your desired outcome. Dental implants can last for a lifetime with proper care.