According to the NIH, 2.2% of adults ages 20 to 64 have no remaining teeth.
The good news is nowadays, it’s easier than ever to replace damaged or missing teeth. For those requiring tooth replacements due to illness or injury, dental implants may be the answer to a bad situation.
But what happens to your mouth during dental implant surgery?
Keep reading for what you need to know to prepare for your dental implant procedure.
Dental Implant Procedure
Depending on the type of implant, You will do this by drilling a hole in your jawbone, then securing the post with a titanium screw. Your dentist may use fiber posts and anchoring screws to secure the post.
The area will then be sewn closed and allowed to heal. After six to eight weeks of healing, the surgery’s second phase occurs.
This involves placing an abutment and a crown or bridge to restore your smile. The abutment is a metal connector piece that fits onto the top of the post so that the crown or bridge can be placed upon it, giving you the desired dental restoration.
Anesthesia and Pain Management
During dental implant surgery, anesthesia and pain management is essential for a successful procedure and comfortable postoperative recovery. You can expect the dentist to discuss the type of anesthesia they will use with you before the procedure.
This anesthesia will be local or general, depending on your medical history and the specifics of your implant surgery. The dentist may adjust or provide additional pain management medications if you feel discomfort during the procedure.
Common Complications & Risks
Dental implant surgery is a relatively safe and straightforward procedure. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications that you should be aware of before the dental implant procedures.
The most common complications associated with dental implant surgery include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, and damage to adjacent teeth. It is also possible that your body may reject the implant.
This can lead to additional surgery and financial costs. Other potential risks include swelling and bleeding after the procedure and a longer recovery time.
The dental office in my area will be able to discuss these risks in more detail before the process so that you can make an informed decision. Make sure to talk to your dentist about any questions or concerns.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery and aftercare are essential for a successful surgery. You should be prepared to arrange for someone to drive you home following the procedure and spend a few days resting and recuperating until the anesthesia has worn off.
You may need several weeks of recovery and follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and nutrition. After your surgery, you may need to reduce physical activity and follow a soft-food diet.
You should also schedule regular check-ups to monitor your implant’s healing progress and help your dentist ensure your surgical outcome’s success. You’ll need to keep up with your regular oral hygiene to help avoid any potential infection or further complications.
Prepare for a Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery can initially seem intimidating. With knowledge and preparation, the procedure can be relatively comfortable.
Use this article as a guide to ensure you are prepared for your dental implant surgery and come away with a successful result. Get the dental implants you need and take the first step to a healthier, happier smile!
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