What To Expect From A Dental Implant Surgery
Over the years, the field of dentistry has witnessed major improvements in tooth replacement methods. In the past, dentures and fixed bridges were the common options for teeth replacement, but they were not ideal solutions. Nowadays, dental implants are the perfect solution for tooth loss. Research shows that dental implants have a 90% success rate, which is quite impressive.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is used as a substitute for a natural root. Dental implants are usually placed in sockets that are carefully drilled in the gum. And due to this, they offer a strong support to the false teeth.
What Happens During A Dental Implant Surgery?
A dental implant surgery is a three-stage process. But to take care of the pain, it begins with sedation. The first stage involves implant placement. The implant is surgically buried underneath the gum and at an even level with the bone. As the healing period comes to the end, some overlying gum must be removed so that the implants can be exposed.
During the second stage, a connecting element (abutment) that penetrates through the gum is placed. The gum heals around the element and creates a cuff that gives the dentist an access to the implant. However, it is also possible to fix the implant and the abutment at the same time. If this happens, then a second surgery that exposes the implant may not be necessary.
The final stage involves placement of prosthetic teeth. The teeth are fabricated and connected only when the implants have been given enough time to heal.
What If The Jawbone Is Not Thick Enough?
If your jawbone is not thick enough and you really need the implants, do not worry. You can do bone grafting first before the implant surgery. Failure to undergo grafting may cause a failure in implant surgery because when you chew, pressure is exerted on the bone, which may fail to support the implant.
During bone grafting, a surgical procedure is done to remove a piece of bone from one part of the body and transplant it to the jawbone. Then you must give the transplanted bone a period of nine months to grow strong so that it can support the implants.
Who Are The Candidates Of A Dental Implant Surgery?
Not all people can be termed as dental implants candidates. You only qualify for a dental implant surgery if:
- You have missing teeth
- Your jawbone has reached full growth
- You do not suffer from health conditions that may tamper with bone healing
- You possess healthy oral tissues
After the implants have been placed, you may experience some discomfort, which includes bruising and swelling of gums, minor bleeding, and pain at the implant region. If they get worse, then they are not minor anymore and you need to contact your dentist. For more information about this and other types of dental surgery, contact a local dental clinic.