Many patients who have missing teeth consider dental implants as an option to restore the look and function of their smile. When deciding whether to have the procedure, it is important to learn as much as possible about the treatment.
There are a variety of things patients should know about dental implants when considering the procedure.
Dental implants come in two types and three sizes. Endosteal implants are the most common type. An implant screw, dental prosthesis, and a connector piece are the components of this type of implant. They come in standard, wide and mini sizes. Wider sizes are used for restoring molars and mini sizes are employed in tight spaces or with patients who lack the bone mass to support larger implants. Periosteal implants are made from a metal framework that is placed under the gums and on top of the jawbone.
Dental implants require dental surgery to place the posts in the jaw. Before the surgery, your dentist will take X-rays and perform a cone beam computed tomography scan to use in creating your treatment plan. During the procedure, the dentist removes any damaged or decayed teeth and then makes a small incision in the gums to expose the jawbone.
Next, the dentist shapes the tooth socket to prepare it for the implant screw. The dentist then places the implant in the jawbone and attaches a connector piece that will hold the replacement tooth. The dentist then moves the gums back into place and closes the incision with stitches. The dentist may attach a temporary restoration to the connector piece.
The jawbone must bond with the implant before the final restoration can be attached to the connector piece. This process usually takes three to six months. During this time, the implants are susceptible to damage because they are not strongly anchored into the jaw. Patients must follow their dentist's instructions during the recovery period to avoid complications, such as implant failure. Keep the implant site clean, follow the recommended daily hygiene routine, and eat soft foods during the recovery period.
Patients should be prepared to pay more for dental implants than other types of restorations. However, because implants are more durable, they may be more affordable over the lifetime of the treatment. Other restorations may need to be replaced. Dental implants can last a lifetime. Additionally, because implants help patients avoid bone loss, they may save the patient money on future dental treatments.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Franklin, IN
The more you learn about dental implants, the better prepared you will be for the procedure. Talk to your dentist about what you should know about the procedure and be sure to ask questions about anything you do not understand or are concerned about.
Request an appointment or call Cedar Lane Family Dentistry at 317-736-7476 for an appointment in our Franklin office.
The decision to get dental implants is a big one, and one that can drastically change your life for the better. Dental implants offer substantial benefits over other tooth replacement options and can help prevent many of the adverse side effects of tooth loss. Because implants look and act like natural teeth and have the…
Tooth loss can be caused by injury, disease, or tooth decay. If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be an option for you.Dental implants are metal posts that resemble screws. The posts are inserted into the jawbone of the patient to replace the tooth roots of missing teeth. The implants can…
If you are missing one or more permanent teeth, dental implants may be an option for replacing them. Placing the implants requires an operation, and not everyone is a candidate for the surgery. Your dentist can discuss the criteria you must meet to be eligible. If you do not meet the criteria now, it may…