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Here’s What to Expect From a Dental Implants Appointment

Broken or missing teeth can ruin how you feel about your smile. They can also make it very difficult to chew anything and can be a hot spot for infection. Getting your teeth repaired or replaced will make a huge difference to your smile, bite, and oral health. 

You have several options available to you for replacing your teeth. These include getting dental bridges or dentures. By far the most effective solution is going to be getting a dental implant. 

But what are dental implants and what can you expect from your dental implant appointment? 

In this article, we’ll talk you through the procedure of dental implant placement. 

What Is an Endosteal Dental Implant?

A dental implant is used to replace a missing or damaged tooth. The most popular type of dental implant is the endosteal implant. This is the type of implant that has the titanium screw fitted into the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. The replacement crown is fitted over the titanium screw. 

Implants provide a natural look and are indistinguishable from the real thing. This is because when you get dental implants fitted, the dentist will ensure they match the appearance of your existing teeth. 

What Can You Expect When You Visit the Dentist for Dental Implants? 

Having dental implants will take several visits to the dentist, and it could be a few months by the time the process is complete. Your first appointment will involve getting any damaged teeth removed. 

The dentist will make an assessment of your jawbone. They will want to ensure that there is enough bone and that it is hard enough. If it is not, it is possible to have the jaw grafted. Your jaw needs to be able to withstand the pressure of the implant. 

If your jaw does need grafting, then this could take several months. It will need to reach the right strength to be able to take the implant. Once your jawbone has reached the right strength to be able to accept the implant, the dentist will then cut through the gums and drill into your jawbone. 

After this, you’ll be able to wear a temporary denture. 

It will take a few months for the implant to integrate with your jaw bone. Once it is ready, the abutment can be fitted into place. This is the small screw upon which the crown will sit. 

A replacement tooth will then be fabricated by the dentist. This will be made based on x-rays and impressions of your mouth/teeth. 

Who Can Have Dental Implants?

It will be up to your dentist to decide whether you are a suitable candidate to have dental implants. There are several conditions that may prevent you from having the procedure. The dentist will need to know if you have any of the following: 

  • Osteoporosis
  • AIDS
  • Diabetes
  • Any uncontrollable metabolic diseases

The dentist will need to know whether you are a smoker, and if so, how much you smoke. This is because if you are a heavy smoker, implants may not be suitable for you. 

The dentist will also need to know whether you have any conditions that cause you to grind your teeth. This can cause considerable pressure on your jaw. As a result, you may not be able to have dental implants. 

What Are the Risks Associated With Dental Implants?

Before you have your dental implant procedure, the dentist will talk you through some of the risks associated with having dental implants. Although the risks are low, it is still important that you are aware of them. Some of the risks include: 

  • The gum becoming infected
  • The implant becoming exposed
  • Damage to the nerves
  • The implant moving
  • The incision of the gum opening

Once the entire dental implant process is complete, your dentist will want you to come back so they can see how the implant has settled. You may need to have several follow up appointments to ensure everything is healing well. 

Book Your Dental Implant Appointment Today

Getting a dental implant fitted can vastly improve the confidence you have in your smile. Not only that, but dental implants can improve your ability to chew food and lessen the risk of infection. 

To find out more about dental implants or to make an appointment, get in touch today. 

Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued.

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