Have you been looking for solutions to some of your tooth problems?
There are plenty of restorative care options for people who have damaged or missing teeth, but if you’re not already “in the know,” it’s hard to determine which one is going to be right for you.
One of these options is dental implants.
But what are dental implants anyway? How do you know if they’re right for you, and what is the procedure like? We’re here to offer you an explanation so you can make an informed choice about your oral health.
Keep reading to learn all about dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are what they sound like: they’re fake teeth that a dental health professional implants into your gums.
Dental implants resemble real teeth to the point that most people won’t recognize that you have them at all. The “tooth” itself will screw into a metal implant that acts like the root of your tooth.
Many people choose dental implants over dentures. When you are missing a tooth, the integrity of your jaw is at risk. With dental implants, the implant protects your jaw.
What Is The Dental Implant Procedure?
When you have your initial dental implant consultation, your dentist will discuss the dental implant cost, the overall procedure and healing time, and whether or not they think that you’re a good candidate for implants.
If you’re a good candidate, the dentist will schedule your procedure.
During your first appointment, if you still have a problematic tooth, the dentist will remove it. Then you’ll have a brief healing period.
During the next appointment, the dentist will screw in the implant. This is an outpatient procedure. There will be a healing period after this where you still have a gap in your smile, but you can use a temporary denture to hide it. The dentist may also place an abutment during this stage.
Your dentist will have you wait until the implant has settled into the bone before they place the “tooth” over it. The healing period may last several months, so you must be patient.
After the tooth is in place, you’re ready to use it like any other tooth. If you want to learn more about the procedure, contact your local dental implant professional.
Healing and Risks
The healing process will be uncomfortable. Your dentist or oral surgeon may provide you with pain medication. You may experience swelling, bruising, pain, sensitivity, and bleeding.
There are also several risks. It’s uncommon, but you may experience gum necrosis, sinus problems, gum recession, and other rare conditions.
If you’re worried about risks, talk to your dental health professional about how to mitigate them.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
So what are dental implants? If you have missing or damaged teeth, they might be the right solution. Don’t settle for a smile that you feel self-conscious about.
Fix the gaps in your teeth, protect your jaw, and show off your smile.
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