Have you ever lost a tooth due to an accident or illness or for any other reason? If so, then dental implant surgery could be the solution for you. Dental implants can help replace missing teeth and restore your smile to its original glory – as well as improve chewing/speaking capacities, prevent bone loss, and provide other benefits. In this blog post, we will look at what is involved in dental implant surgery – from pre-surgery preparation through aftercare procedure – to help you decide whether it’s right for you or not.
Definition of Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure involving placing metal screws into the jawbone to replace missing teeth, providing an artificial root and a stable foundation for permanent replacement teeth, like crowns or bridges. The titanium posts are anchors to hold artificial teeth such as implants, dentures, and bridge replacements in place.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many benefits associated with dental implants over other tooth replacement options, including improved appearance and comfort, enhanced self-esteem, increased ability to chew effectively with natural biting force, and improved speech and pronunciation. Other advantages include greater durability (with good maintenance), convenience (no need to remove and clean), and improved oral health (as adjacent teeth don’t need to be altered to bridge the gap).
Overview of the Different Types of Dental Implant Surgery Procedures
There are four types of dental implant surgery: single tooth replacement, multiple teeth replacement bridges, full-mouth reconstruction, and sinus lift. The type of procedure chosen will depend on the number of missing teeth as wear factors such as jawbone condition, overall health, and budget.
Types of Dental Implant Surgeries
Single Tooth Replacement Surgery
A single dental implant is placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing from. The abutment that connects the implant to the restorative device is placed at the same time as the implant, allowing a natural-looking restoration above the gum line.
Multiple Teeth Replacement Surgery (Bridge)
A multiple teeth replacement surgery involves anchoring an artificial bridge to two or more implants implanted in the jawbone. This procedure helps reduce wear and tear on existing teeth, prevents further bone loss due to missing teeth, and creates a natural-looking smile.
Full-Mouth Reconstruction Surgery
Full-mouth reconstruction combines dental procedures, including implant placement, crowns and bridges, periodontal treatment, and oral surgery. This procedure is suitable for patients with extensive tooth decay or extensive missing teeth.
Sinus Lift Procedure
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that involves adding bone tissue to the upper jawbone near the molars and premolars to strengthen the area for implant placement. The procedure helps increase success rates of placing implants within the sinus cavity because it builds up the jawbone’s strength before an implant is placed.
Preparation for Dental Implant Surgery
Before beginning a dental implant surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon will perform a comprehensive exam along with x-rays to understand better your oral health and what type of implant is right for you.
Making an Appropriate Treatment Plan with Your Dentist or Oral Surgeon
Once the comprehensive exam is complete, your dentist or oral surgeon will create a custom treatment plan based on your exam results and x-rays. The treatment plan should include details like implant type, implant placement (s), number of implants needed, and estimated cost.
Pre-Surgery Instructions from Your Dentist/Oral Surgeon
Before starting any dental implant procedure, your dentist/oral surgeon should provide detailed instructions about preparing for the surgery and what to expect during and after the procedure. Patients must adhere to these instructions to reduce any complications arising during or after the dental implant procedure.
Procedure for Dental Implant Surgery
Local Anesthetic Administration
Before beginning a dental implant surgery, your dentist/oral surgeon will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area where the implants will be placed. This helps reduce discomfort and ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Placement of the Dental Implant(s)
Next, your dentist/oral surgeon will carefully place each implant into your jawbone according to the treatment plan created before the surgery. Once in place, they should feel secure and stable to ensure proper healing and integration with bone tissue over time.
Healing and Osseointegration Process
After the dental implant is placed in your jaw, the area must heal for several months before a restoration (e.g., crown or bridge) can be attached. During this time, osseointegration occurs, which is the process of bone and implant fusing to create a secure connection between them.
Final Step: Attaching the Restoration to the Dental Implants
Once healing has taken place and osseointegration occurs, your dentist/oral surgeon will attach a permanent prosthetic device such as a crown, bridge, or denture to complete your smile and restore the full functionality of your teeth.
Post-Surgery Checkups with Your Dentist/Oral Surgeon
After a dental implant has been placed and restored, it is important to follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon for routine checkups to ensure the longevity of your new smile.
Care Tips After Your Dental Implant Surgery
After you have had a dental implant procedure, there are several things you can do to ensure that your implants last for many years, including proper oral hygiene, avoiding smoking or drinking alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and taking good care of your gums.
Potential Complications of Dental Implant Surgery
Although dental implant surgery is very safe and successful when done properly, it is not without potential risks, such as infection, nerve damage, sinus issues, or jawbone infection. Discuss any potential risks with your dentist/oral surgeon before beginning the procedure.
Conclusion
Dental implant surgery is an excellent way to combat tooth loss. It allows you to achieve a strong jawbone and create a beautiful smile while restoring your overall confidence. The process is minimally invasive and can provide life-long results that allow you to enjoy the foods you love without feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious. Additionally, most insurance plans cover implant procedures in full or in part, making it an affordable option for many seeking treatment.
If you’re considering dental implant surgery, consult with your dentist to discuss the associated costs and risks as well as additional solutions. Regardless of your decision regarding your treatment options, remember that the dental health professionals at a Burbank dentist office are available whenever you need help selecting and receiving the best services for your unique situation. Contact us today to learn more about our wide selection of helpful dental services.