What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are one of the available options to replace a tooth that has been lost due to injury, gum disease, or advanced decay. As opposed to traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants replace the roots of the missing tooth and anchor directly to the jawbone itself.
How do you prepare for Dental Implants?
Prior to surgery, your dentist will perform a thorough oral examination to determine that dental implants are the right option for you. You should inform your dentist of any allergies you have or medications you are currently taking in order to avoid a negative reaction to the anesthetic. X-rays will also be performed. Depending on the anesthetic being used, you may be asked to fast for several hours prior to the surgery.
Why are Dental Implants performed?
Dental implant surgery is performed to replace a tooth that has been lost. Because dental implants are fused directly to the jawbone itself, they are more secure and durable than traditional dentures or bridges. They also do not require reshaping of the surrounding teeth to be held in place, as in the case of bridgework.
What can you expect during Dental Implants?
These days, Dr. Jamali tries to place the implants and the temporary teeth (particularly in the front area of mouth) on the same day. If this is not possible due to excessive loss of bone, then the procedure is performed over the course of a number of appointments. If necessary, damaged remnants of the tooth will be removed first, followed by any necessary grafts or treatments to prepare the jawbone for the implant. Then, the root replacement (basically a small metal post) is implanted in the empty root socket. The root implant is allowed to bond to the bone, a process which can take up to a few months, before an abutment is added to connect to the replacement tooth. An impression of your teeth is taken to create a crown, which will replace the original tooth. In total, this process can take several months.
What is the followup and recovery like for Dental Implants?
Typically, patients experience minimum discomfort after implant placement. Contact your doctor if you experience worsening pain, bleeding, or swelling that does not go away after a couple days. Once put in place, dental implants are very durable, and a successfully placed implant may last a lifetime. It is important to continue oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing.
What are the potential risks for Dental Implants?
To reduce the potential complications from dental implant surgery, you are recommended to see a specialist. With Dr. Jamali, the complications are not common, but some potential risks are bleeding, infection, and injury to the surrounding teeth or gums. Nerve damage is also possible in rare cases.
Are there related treatments to Dental Implants?
Dental crowns and dental bridges are other procedures which may be performed to replace a tooth that is decayed, damaged, or missing.
