What You Should Know About The Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are a popular solution for individuals who are missing one or more teeth. This procedure can help restore your smile and give you the confidence that you need to feel your best. However, if you’re considering a dental implant procedure, it’s important to be informed about what to expect and how to prepare. This post will give you a comprehensive overview of what you should know about the dental implant procedure.

1. What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are carefully placed into your jawbone through surgery to replace missing teeth. These implants are crafted from titanium, a lightweight and durable material that is biocompatible to your body. By fusing with the bone in your jaw, the implant provides a strong foundation for a replacement tooth, which is then securely attached to the implant. Dental implants can effectively restore the function and appearance of one tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire set of teeth.

2. The Dental Implant Procedure

The procedure is usually done in stages, and it can take several months to complete. The first stage is the placement of the implant, which is done under local anesthesia or sedation. The implant is placed into the jawbone, and then a protective cover screw is placed over the top to protect the implant while it fuses with the bone.

Once the implant has fused with the bone, the next stage is to attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment is a small connector that attaches to the implant and protrudes up through the gum line. The final stage is the placement of the replacement tooth or teeth, which are attached to the abutment. The replacement teeth are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.

3. Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with dental implants. The most common complications include infection, implant failure, nerve damage, and damage to surrounding teeth. It’s important to discuss the risks and potential complications with your dentist or oral surgeon before the procedure.

4. General Requirements and Maintenance

To be a good candidate for dental implants, you must have healthy gums and sufficient bone in your jaw to support the implants. You must also be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. After the procedure, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and maintenance of the implants. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding smoking or using tobacco products, and avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage the implants.

Dental implants are a great option for individuals who are missing teeth. However, it’s important to be informed about the risks, potential complications, and proper maintenance of dental implants. If you’re considering a dental implant procedure, talk to a local dental clinic, like Koehn Dentistry & Aesthetics.