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About
Implant Surgery.
Introduction to Dental Implant
Surgery
Dental implant surgery is a common
option for replacing missing teeth.
Unlike removable dentures that rest on
the gum line, dental implants are a
long-term treatment that is surgically
implanted into the jaw. These implanted,
artificial teeth look like real teeth
and have the same functionality as well.
They are a more permanent solution to
ordinary dentures and bridgework.
DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY
Dental implant surgery is a surgical
procedure in which the dental implants
are implanted into the jawbone where
they replace the roots of the teeth that
are missing. The implants contain
titanium that, when implanted into the
jaw, fuses with the jawbone. Once fusion
occurs, the dental implants hold firmly
in place, they do not slip or make
noise. There are different types of
dental implants available and the way
that dental implant surgery is performed
will depend on the type of implant that
is chosen as well as the condition of
the jaw.
WHY GO WITH DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Many people choose dental implants for
missing teeth replacement. When trying
to make a decision about whether or not
to have dental implant surgery, it is
important to know why the procedure may
be more beneficial to you than other
types of dental replacements. Certain
conditions and circumstances may make
dental implants the better option, such
as:
-
Having more than one missing
tooth
-
Having a jawbone that has
reached full growth Having ample
amounts of bone to secure the
implant Having healthy oral
tissues Being unwilling or
unable to wear dentures Wanting
to improve your speech Being
able and willing to commit
several months to complete the
process Unlike traditional
dentures and bridgework, dental
implants do not cause any damage
to the bone. Additionally, all
of the material used for dental
implants are safe and do not
cause any decay.
ARE THEY SAFE
Dental implants are considered safe for
the majority of people. Individuals with
certain medical conditions, such as high
blood pressure and diabetes, should
check with their health care provider
prior to having dental implant surgery.
Fortunately, most individuals with these
conditions will receive the green light
for the procedure, as long as certain
precautions are met.
Dental implant surgery is not
recommended for children as their jaws
have not yet reached full growth.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
As with any surgical procedure, there
are some health risks associated with
dental implant surgery. Complications
are relatively rare and when they do
occur they are generally mild, requiring
minimal treatment. Possible health risks
associated with dental implant surgery
include:
HOW TO PREPARE FOR SURGERY
A comprehensive dental exam and
evaluation with Xrays is required before
the procedure can take place. The
evaluation of oral and radiographic
findings and your consultation will
help to create your personal treatment
plan with estimate of costs.
It is important to speak with your
doctor about any underlying medical
conditions you have and to list all of
the medications, both prescription and
over the counter that you are taking, as
well as any herbal or natural
supplements. Individuals with certain
heart conditions and those with
orthopedic implants may have to undergo
antibiotic treatment prior to having the
surgery.
Prior to the surgery, you will have the
chance to discuss with your doctor the
different anesthesia options available.
You will have a choice of local, general
or sedation anesthesia. Together with
your dental specialist and health care
team you can determine which option is
the best choice for you.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Dental implant surgery is performed in
several stages, with the entire process
lasting anywhere from 3 to 9 months.
Much of this time includes time off for
healing and the growth of new jaw bone.
The first surgery involves the placement
of the dental implant cylinder into the
jawbone. A rest period of a few months
follows.
The next surgery involves the placement
of the abutment and the new artificial
tooth. Another healing period then
follows.
Some individuals will require a bone
graft surgery prior to having dental
implant surgery. This is common in
individuals who have a jawbone that is
too soft or is not thick enough to
sustain the implant. During a bone
graft, a piece of bone is transplanted
into the jawbone. Dental implant surgery
is generally performed as an outpatient
procedure. It is generally performed in
the dental office.
The amount of surgeries required is very
specific to the individual and varies
accordingly. No matter how many
surgeries are required, you may
experience certain side effects after
each one, including:
-
Swelling
of the gums
-
Swelling of the face
-
Pain at implant site
-
Bleeding
These side effects are relatively mild
and often improve shortly. Your doctor
may prescribe antibiotics or pain
medications. You will be instructed to
eat only soft foods for up to one week.
Self-dissolving stitches are typically
used.
CONSIDERATIONS
Occasionally, dental implant surgery is
not successful. If the bone does not
fuse to the implant, it will have to be
removed and the procedure can be
repeated. Maintaining good oral hygiene
after dental implant surgery can help
decrease the risk of complications and
problems that may arise with dental
implants
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