Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. They are an effective long-term solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. They also help prevent the bone loss that occurs when teeth are removed without being replaced.
Dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure that can be complicated and lengthy depending on the patient. For this reason, it is important to have all the information you need before going ahead with the surgery. Read this article to learn more about the dental implant process, recovery time, and other aspects of the procedure.
Your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam of your mouth, jaw, and surrounding structures to assess your candidacy for dental implants. They will take X-rays, 3D images, and models of your teeth and jaw to help plan the surgery. They will also test your blood and nerves to make sure you can heal afterward. They may need to refer you to a specialist if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or immune deficiencies that affect your ability to heal.
Before your surgery, your doctor will provide you with a list of dos and don’ts that you need to follow before the procedure. They will likely advise you to stop smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can interfere with healing. Your doctor will also give you prescriptions for antibiotics and a mouthwash to prepare your mouth for the surgery.
The surgery itself usually involves opening your gum to expose the bone. They will then drill holes just large enough to hold the implant post, which they will then place deep in the jaw bone. The post will then be covered by a cap, which stops tissue and bone from growing over it.
Once the implant has healed and been capped, you can eat normally again. You will still need to brush and floss regularly, but you should avoid chewing hard foods or other things that could damage the implant. You should also visit your dentist regularly to ensure that the implant is healthy.
The benefits of getting dental implant surgery can be substantial. They can help restore your confidence in your smile and your ability to speak and eat normally. They can also help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which occurs when teeth are missing without being replaced.
If you are considering dental implants, it is important to talk to a reputable oral surgeon. SF Oral Surgery can help you understand the process, recovery, and other aspects of the procedure. They can also help you decide if the pros and cons are right for you. Contact them today to schedule your first, free consultation!