What Can You Expect When Getting A Dental Implant?
Do you have an upcoming dental procedure and are wondering what happens when you get an implant? Today, we’ll be looking at the reasons why a patient might need an implant, what they can expect during the process, and how to care for their oral health moving forward.
Any kind of dental procedure can be a daunting prospect. People are naturally worried about trips to the dentist, especially when surgery is involved. Fortunately, complications are rare when patients undergo a dental implant surgery, and if done in a professional and careful manner, it can ensure the health of your smile for years to come.
At Grand Lake Dental, our professional and experienced team makes the health and comfort of all our patients our top priority. You and your family can rest easy knowing that we’ll be using only the latest equipment and technology during your visit.
When is a dental implant recommended?
A dental implant, sometimes referred to as an endosseous implant or fixture, is a type of surgical component inserted into the mouth so that it connects with the jawbone or skull. It then can act as an anchor for a dental prosthesis, including a crown, bridge, facial prosthesis, or false tooth. Basically, it’s a more permanent, more secure option for missing teeth compared with dentures.
So who can benefit from a dental implant? A dental implant is a viable option for patients who are missing one or more tooth. Perhaps your dentist has recommended that you get dentures. Implants may be a better choice. Or maybe you are scheduled for a tooth extraction due to an accident or some other reason, and wondering what will happen to your mouth afterwards.
If you’re interested in getting a dental implant, there are a few boxes you will need to check beforehand. First of all, your jawbone needs to have reached full growth. Dental implants are not a viable option for children. Your dentist will also need to check that you have adequate bone area to place the implants (or be able undergo a bone graft). You’ll also need to have healthy oral tissue and not suffer any conditions that would prevent your bones from healing properly.
If you meet all of these conditions, then it’s likely safe for you to get a dental implant.
What does a dental implant procedure entail?
Dental implant surgery relies on a biological process known as osseointegration. This allows modern materials such as titanium to be fused with bone, so that a dental prosthetic can be attached. While the procedure sounds daunting, it’s usually less painful and invasive than a tooth extraction.
Prior to starting the dental implant process, you’ll need to do several things. First off, all patients should undergo a comprehensive dental exam prior to oral surgery. At this time, you’ll have X-rays taken of your mouth and jaw, and perhaps even 3D images, so the dentist has a full picture.
It’s also important that you share with your dentist any medical conditions you suffer from, as well as any medications you currently are taking. This should include all over-the-counter medications and supplements that are a part of your regular routine. Some complicating factors your dentist should be aware of might be a heart condition or orthopedic implant. In such cases, you might need to take antibiotics prior to surgery to prevent possible infection.
As for the procedure itself, a single implant can be done in less than 20 minutes. The dentist will make a slight incision in your jawline, and a titanium post will be inserted and then the incision will be sewn with stitches.
For some patients, there may be more involved. It’s important to note that any unhealthy teeth will need to be extracted first, and then the mouth will need to fully heal before the implant procedure can be done. In addition, some people will require a bone graft to ensure that there is enough bone area in which to place the implant. This may take several additional months.
Finally, after the implant has fully healed, only then will your dentist be able to affix the new tooth or dental prosthesis.
What should you expect after surgery is completed?
Post surgery, it’s natural to experience some discomfort. This might include swelling of your gums and cheek, bruising around your jaw, pain at the site of the implant, and minor bleeding. All of these are to be expected, and ordinarily, an over-the-counter painkiller should be adequate to deal with the discomfort.
Depending upon your circumstances, your dentist may also proscribe a round of antibiotics or pain medication. You’ll want to follow all directions for taking such medications carefully. If you find that the swelling or discomfort does not subside in a couple days, or is even getting worse, you should contact your dentist and will perhaps need to schedule a follow up appointment.
Although most implant procedures are successful, occasionally there will be a complication that results in the implant not staying affixed to your jaw. Certain habits that should be avoided following the procedure because they are known to have an adverse impact on implants include smoking, chewing ice or other hard substances, teeth grinding in your sleep, and the like. You can also help ensure the success of the implant by practicing proper dental hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash.
Your Grove, Oklahoma Dental Implant Specialist
Dr. Jobst and the entire staff at Grand Lake Dental pride themselves on the great care and attention to detail we provide all of our patients. Our number one concern is your oral health, and that’s why we only employ the safest and most effective methods. Any form of dental surgery, no matter how routine, has the potential to have complications, and we are fully committed to ensuring a safe and successful outcome with as little discomfort as possible.
Dr. Karl Jobst has the education, training, and experience you would expect from a top dental professional, especially when it comes to oral surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation regarding dental implants.