Dental implant surgery can sound scary, invasive, and painful. Knowing what to expect from your dental implant surgery if your dentist suggests it for you will help. For instance, dental implant surgery is routine, if involved, and leads to better dental hygiene and oral function after the procedure is done. Knowing why you need it and what you can expect from it is key to overcoming the fears you may have for dental surgeries.
A dentist won’t suggest dental implants for no reason.
When you’re prescribed a dental implant surgery it’s because there’s no other option to save your tooth. So, understand it’s a necessary, if uncomfortable, procedure. Go in with the right physical and emotional preparation to make sure nothing surprises you and trust your dentist.
Below is some information about dental implant surgeries.
Why You May Need It
A dental implant procedure involves placing an artificial tooth and root into your jawbone to replace your original tooth. During the recovery process, the implant fuses fully to your jawbone and becomes the new tooth. This can be necessary if you have a place where a tooth is missing, you are unable to wear dentures, or have an infection and need a tooth removed. The implant replaces a missing tooth in both function and appearance.
The Risks Involved
This is an invasive medical procedure which means there are some risks involved. The most common risk is infection at the implant site. You may also have injury to surrounding structures such as nearby teeth or sensitive blood vessels. Nerve damage can occur if nerves are exposed at the root of the original tooth. Depending on the location of your implant you may have discomfort or more serious issues in your sinuses if the implant in the upper jaw protrudes into your sinus cavity. There is also the potential for your jaw rejecting the implant and not fusing properly.
Preparation and Expectation
A comprehensive dental exam will always proceed an implant procedure, this involves full x-rays and 3D imaging. Your dentist will review your medical history to ensure no compounding complications and you’ll have a unique and customized treatment plan to help you acclimate to your implant as well as keep your remaining teeth healthy. You can expect some discomfort and some soreness as your jaw grows accustomed to the new tooth and you may require some grafting of your gums or jawbone to ensure a good, safe fit.
Related Questions
When is bone grafting required?
Your jawbone may not be thick enough to handle an implant being put into it, it also may be too soft to properly set right. The bone graft will offer support to your jaw to ensure the surgery is a success.
What can I expect when the procedure is over?
You will have swelling in your gums and face for a period after surgery and may even have some minor bruising. The implant site will be tender and may bleed from time to time. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to fight infection and you’ll be fairly closely monitored during the healing process.
Talk to your dentist today about your concerns for your dental implant surgery.
Dental implants are positively changing the way people live and are the best restorative solution to ensure long-term dental health. Our Walled Lake Dental Office offers the latest technology in modern dentistry, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental care services to meet the needs of your entire family.
Dr. Hechtman has over 40 years of experience and success in restoring smiles with dental implants, dental veneers, dentures and more! Call us for a Free Consultation and learn about your smile options.