Beginner’s Guide on What to Expect from Dental Implant Procedures

A smile can undoubtedly convey a thousand words, as the saying goes. It speaks of your confidence, warmth, and zest for life. So, it is not surprising how a missing tooth, or multiple missing teeth, can prevent you from smiling confidently.

If you’re currently looking for tooth loss solutions, we will tell you why dental implants are favored among many.

Dental Implants: Function and Use

A dental implant is a complete tooth replacement option, meaning that a tooth can be substituted fully, from the very root all the way up to the enamel. A patient will need to undergo dental surgery in order to have dental implants implanted in their jawline.

Why Dental Implants?

Longevity

One of the main reasons why patients choose to go through a dental implant procedure is the desire for a restorative option that can last for a long time. Dental implants are permanent fixtures that will not need frequent replacing.

Durability

The base of these implants is called “implant posts,” and the mid-section or abutments are typically comprised of titanium and titanium alloys. These materials are known for their high tensile strength, which is an indication of how they are able to withstand different levels of pressure while retaining their structural integrity.

They do not break and sustain cracks and scratches the way natural teeth do.

Stability and Support

The fact that such devices are individually and surgically drilled into the jawbone instead of simply being bonded onto teeth means that they are sturdy. Removable dental devices are at risk of becoming loosened from their positions–something you will not experience with dental implants.

In addition, implants will not cause teeth to shift. These fixtures have a screw-like form, which allows them to be drilled and locked into either the lower or upper jawbone.

Less Prone to Cavities

Both the titanium portion of the implant and the acrylic resin or porcelain crown are safe against cavities. They are not susceptible to acids and decay-causing bacteria that natural teeth are frequently faced with.

While good oral health should continually be practiced even after a dental implant procedure, dental implants cannot be decayed by the same elements that eat away at real teeth.

What To Expect From A Dental Implant Procedure

Consultation and Diagnosis

This initial stage involves several steps, and they are as follows:

Dental exam : A comprehensive dental exam through X-rays and 3D imaging will take place. The results from the dental exam will be utilized by our dental specialist as a basis for further studying your dental condition.

Medical history : This is not limited to your dental history alone. A full review of your medical history is required for our dentist to learn if you have cardiovascular and/or nervous system disorders (among others), which may impede the healing process. You will also be asked about any medications and/or supplements you’ve taken in the past and present.

Treatment Customization

The dental specialist at our dental practice near you will go over your personalized treatment plan, from the prep pre-surgery to the actual surgery and post-surgery. This will include instructions about what antibiotics you can take for the wound(s) to heal well and to prevent infections from incurring.

Like with other types of medical surgeries, anesthesia will be used to numb the discomfort of the operation. Local anesthesia, general anesthesia, and sedation are the three major types. Our dental specialist can explain which one will be best for your dental implant surgery.

Several Procedures

To help you set your schedule around the dental implant procedure, take note that it generally has two stages, three if the locations for the surgery require more complicated techniques. This will also be dependent on how many teeth need to be replaced.

Something else to consider is how much time it will take for the surgical wounds to heal. Generally, the healing period usually ranges from 3 to 8 months.

For more information about dental implants or to schedule a consultation with our dentist at Edgartown Dental Group, give us a call. We will be happy to walk you through the entire process and answer any questions you may have.