Getting dental implants is becoming more popular than ever. Since dental health is so important, it makes sense to get a new tooth instead of dealing with cavities, damaged teeth, and infections. A dental implant is much stronger than a regular tooth and will last decades with proper care.
If you are thinking of getting an implant, then you will want to know everything about it. There are several steps involved with implant dentist procedures as well as recovery times and after-care to be aware of. Once you choose the dentist, then they will explain everything in detail, but in this article, we will go over the basics so you know what to expect.
Preparation timeline
It can take a while before you are able to start the process of the implant procedure. This is especially true if you are in need of removing a tooth or clearing up an infection. In the case of tooth removal, it can take up to a month before your gums and bone are healed enough for the implant to work.
The same goes for an infection, especially if the infection affected the jaw bone. That bone will need to be completely healed. Some people might have to go through a bone regeneration process to strengthen the bone so it can support the implant. If there are problems with the bone itself then there is a chance the implant will come out at some point.
The surgery
Most oral surgeons will need to have you do two sittings for the procedure. The first is when the anchor of the implant is put into place. This involves drilling into the bone and inserting the anchor into it. The anchor acts just like the root of a tooth and is what connects the top of the tooth to the bone.
You’ll need up to a couple of months for the bone to fuse with an anchor before the rest of the procedure can be finished. During this time the crown of the implant is made. The crown is the visible part of the implant which replaces the tooth.
After the bone is finished fusing you will go in for the rest of the procedure.
Sedation
Most people getting implants will not require general anesthesia or sedation during the surgery since a local anesthetic is enough to not feel anything during the procedure. However, those that require bone grafts will need a stronger sedative to be unconscious during the surgery. Those that require it will need to stay in the facility for a while for observation and should have somebody available to give a ride to and from the surgery.
Aftercare
Having implants doesn’t mean that you no longer have to care for your teeth. Although an implant is stronger, it does depend on the health of the gums and jawbone to stay stable.
Make sure you still take care of your oral health by brushing, avoiding smoking, and flossing between teeth.
