What to Expect When Getting Implant Surgery?

January 1, 2023

Tooth decay, gum disease, and gum disease are some causes of tooth loss. When this happens, you are left with a missing gap between teeth. Having a missing gap can affect your smile and also how you chew food. The good news is the dentist in Gillette, WY, can fix dental implants that act as replacement tooth roots before fixing your artificial tooth. The good thing with these implants is that they offer a strong anchor for your artificial tooth.

However, only a few people know what to expect during surgery, what a dental implant is, and how to take care of it. This piece will assist in answering all of these questions. So, let’s get into it.

What is a Dental Implant?

After losing your tooth, a gap is left where your tooth’s roots once were. Therefore, when you go to the dentist who fixes dental implants in Gillette, they are installing a replacement for the lost tooth’s roots. The dental implants are fixed with screws that act as the roots. The good thing with dental implants is that they feel like your natural teeth and function like them.

Here is the procedure for getting a dental implant fixed.

Dental Exam

When you visit the dentist who fixes dental implants near you, they will first perform a dental exam. A dental exam is essential in determining your oral health and whether you have any oral issues. Here, x-rays and impressions are taken so the dentist can ensure the dental implant fits well in the missing gap.

At this stage, you will tell your dentist how many dental implants you want to be fixed for your missing teeth. This is essential as dental implant surgery is a costly undertaking. Moreover, at this stage, you will discuss with your dentist your oral health history and any fears you might have.

Tooth Extraction

This stage is not a must, but the dentist will perform this procedure if your tooth needs to be removed due to severe decay. Other patients come to the dental clinic with a missing gap.

If your tooth needs to be removed, local anesthesia is administered, and the tooth is extracted.

Placement Of Dental Implants and Bone Grafting

At this stage, you will have to discuss which dental implant you want to be fixed, as there are two types. One is inserted directly under the gumline, while the other is inserted into your jawbone. Therefore, if your jawbone is strong, the dental implant for the jawbone will be used.

Bone grafting can be performed if you do not have sufficient bone in your jaw. After bone grafting, your dentist will recommend a recovery period before proceeding with dental implant surgery.

Once your jaw is healed, the dental implant is inserted into your jawbone through screws. As time goes by, osseointegration takes place. This process might take 3 to 9 months.

Abutment Placement

You will have to visit the dentist so that they examine your implant. After the dentist is satisfied with the result, he can place an abutment on top of the implant. The abutment acts as a connection of the implant to the tooth crown.

Placement Of the Permanent Crown

Once your gums are healed, the dentist will create a customized tooth crown. You will have to choose whether you want dentures or crowns. If you have multiple dental implants, removable dentures will be suitable so that you can remove them and clean them.

How To Protect Your Dental Implants After Surgery?

First, it is critical that you brush your teeth twice a day. Moreover, it would help if you flossed at least once to ensure you remove any food debris that can lead to tooth decay.

It would be best if you looked for an irrigator that can help boost your oral health. The importance of this dental tool is that it eliminates any food debris that can get stuck between your teeth.

On top of that, scheduling regular dental visits at Mountain West Dental is essential. The dentist will be able to examine your implant and determine if it has bonded well with your jaw. Additionally, the dentist can thoroughly clean your teeth and spot any oral issue before it affects your teeth and implants.

Finally, it would be best to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes. These drugs can sabotage your oral health and lead to implant failure.

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