Choosing to obtain a dental implant is typically a straightforward process. Since a bridge is the only other choice, most dental patients find themselves considering the advantages and choosing an implant in the end. Many individuals are frightened by the entire procedure despite having a choice. Thankfully, getting a dental implant is not as frightening as many people think.
There are various steps involved in installing dental implants, each of which requires its recovery period and set of safety measures. Depending on the condition of your teeth and jawbone and how many implants are required, each patient’s operation may differ. Some of these processes could be combined in some circumstances, reducing the overall operation and recovery time.
What are dental implants?
You have a few alternatives for replacing the missing tooth when you lose one, including dentures, bridges, and implants. Natural teeth are attached to your mouth by roots that reach deep into your jawbone.
A dental implant is a substitute tooth connected to your jaw permanently using a post inserted into the socket where your natural tooth’s root formerly stood. Because of this, the implant can behave, seem, and feel exactly like the rest of your natural teeth. With a 98% success rate and the fact that dental implant surgery is relatively prevalent, you may be sure that this process will be successful.
Pre-Op Expectations
Your implant dentist in Westchase, TX, will probably give you a few pre-operative instructions after you and your dentist or oral surgeon have discussed your options, and the amount of time needed and have set a date for the implant to occur. If you plan to have IV sedation or take an oral sedative, common instructions include securing a ride to and from the appointment, rinsing your mouth out with an antibacterial mouthwash, a round of antibiotics, and making sure you have eaten a substantial breakfast the day of surgery, unless you are choosing IV sedation.
What to anticipate on surgery day
The most time-consuming portion of the procedure starts when you are prepared to have dental implants placed. To replace the missing tooth roots, your oral surgeon will make a small cut in your gums to provide access to the jawbone. He will then drill a hole in the jawbone and insert a titanium implant. You shouldn’t drive afterward because you’ll likely be sedated or under anesthesia, and you should aim to stay in bed for the rest of the day.
This stage of the operation can have a lengthy recovery period. The implant will eventually merge with the surrounding bone during bone healing and effectively become a part of your jaw. For dental implants, titanium is chosen specifically because of its capacity to form a long-lasting link with bone tissue. It also increases the stability and longevity of the restoration job.
Post-Op Expectations
Following the initial procedure, it’s critical to follow all post-operative guidelines to prevent infection and the tooth implant from being rejected. Gum swelling and bleeding are common side effects, and any discomfort is typically relieved by taking an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen. Many patients are good to work the day after the treatment. In the same way that natural teeth require routine dental checkups and cleanings, implanted teeth also need to be checked and maintained regularly.
Maintaining Your Dental Implants
You can take steps to improve the likelihood that dental implants will succeed. Despite the failure rate, there is a strong link between cigarette usage and dental implant failure. The highest likelihood of success is to stop smoking before having this surgery if you smoke.
After surgery, you can also take steps to properly care for your implants and teeth. Brushing and flossing regularly will keep your teeth, gums, and dental work clean. To give your teeth a deeper clean, you can use interdental brushes to clean in and around your dental implants. Contact Unident Family Dentistry in Westchase, TX, now!
