Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement. When you get a consultation at your local dental clinic, the dentist will evaluate your suitability for the dental implant procedure. But it helps to know a few important facts before you head off to a dentist that offers consultation. In this post, we will explain what to know before getting dental implants so you can make an informed decision about your oral health
What To Know Before Getting Dental Implants: 5 Essential Facts
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Understand the implant procedure is done in stages
Dental implants are permanent, and for this to happen, they must fuse with your jawbone, so they are strong and stable. Most dental implant procedures follow a two-stage approach. During the first stage, the titanium screw is surgically embedded in your jaw, and it is after this procedure that the jawbone must grow around the dental implant. At this stage, there won’t be much for you to see because the connecting component which will attach the artificial tooth roots to your dental crown is also placed in the second stage.
Your dental implant procedure will take a few months to be completed so that your bone and tissues can heal sufficiently to support the implant. When you receive your treatment plan, your dentist will give you a timeline that outlines how long it will take to finalise your dental implants.
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Not everyone needs a bone graft
So many patients are concerned about bone grafting, but the reality is that not everyone needs one. Bone grafting is only required where there has been bone loss, and there isn’t enough volume to support dental implants. Your dentist will confirm the condition of your jaw after taking x-rays.
If you do need a bone graft, it isn’t something you should worry about either. Bone grafting is a common procedure with predictable outcomes, and if your dentist recommends it, it’s because you have a high chance of success.
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Find an experienced dental practitioner to manage risks
Not only dental practitioners are experienced with dental implant procedures. In order to manage the risks, it’s vital that you choose someone who is both skilled and experienced. Risks like improper placement, damage to adjacent teeth and surrounding nerves, and sinus perforations can be avoided when you choose someone who has a track record of success with dental implants.
Furthermore, dental implants success is highly contingent on careful planning. This means your risk factors must be taken into account, and your personal medical history needs to be considered for a successful outcome. Experienced dentists are familiar with the risk factors and can work around them effectively.
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Look after your oral health
Looking after your oral health should be a priority before, during and after a dental implant procedure.
Before dental implants, it’s essential that you have a healthy mouth free of gum disease and you are a non-smoker. If you don’t tick either of these boxes, you may not be a candidate for implant surgery.
During the stages of your dental implant procedure, you must practice exemplary oral hygiene so that you do not develop peri-implantitis or gum disease. Once you have been through dental implant surgery, you will want to preserve your remaining natural teeth, so you don’t need any more implants in the future.
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Sooner is better than later
When you have been missing a tooth for a while, bone loss is likely to occur. This is because you don’t have tooth roots to stimulate jawbone growth. This increases your chances of needing bone grafting when you do want to move forward with dental implant surgery.
The longer you have been missing teeth, the more likely the other teeth in your mouth are to shift and move out of position. This causes them to loosen, and they can fall out. Any gaps in your smile should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further complications with your oral health.
Your teeth play a role in maintaining facial harmony and fullness. Missing teeth can affect the aesthetics of your face, causing you to look older than you really are. Restoring your bite to full form and function also helps to restore your self-confidence in your smile and appearance.
Missing many teeth can also compromise your ability to eat properly, which can ultimately affect your health and well-being.
If you have further questions about what to know before getting dental implants, it’s best to book a dental consultation near you. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 8203 8760.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622
Dental Implants: What You Should Know
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-implants-what-you-should-know
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