Dental Implant Surgery - What To Expect When Undergoing The Procedure

Over time, the likelihood of your teeth sustaining damage increases. It may be due to tooth decay, an accident, or simple wear and tear through the years. If one or more of your teeth become damaged (or missing), it may be time to consider replacing them. While dentures were a popular option many years ago, dental implants offer more support and a more authentic look and "feel." A trained dentist can offer guidance and advice about the procedure. The paragraphs below provide you with a quick overview of dental implant surgery, including potential challenges and the benefits of the procedure.

An Overview Of The Process

It's important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for dental implant surgery. Good oral health is essential and a patient must have enough bone to support the implants. After the initial consultation, your dentist will conduct an exam that includes X-rays and molds of your mouth. You'll be asked about the prescriptions and medications that you're taking. You'll be asked these questions because dental implants require multiple surgical procedures.

During the first dental implant surgery, you'll be given local anesthesia. A small incision is made in your gum in order to uncover the bone. Then, a hole is drilled into the bone for the placement of the implant. Once the implant has been placed, your dentist will close the gum by stitching over and around the implant. Your dentist may take X-rays of your mouth to make certain the implant is placed properly. Over the next several months, your bone will slowly attach itself onto the implant.

After your bone has grafted onto the implant, a second dental implant surgery is required. Local anesthesia is used again because your dentist needs to expose the implant by making another small incision. The protective screw installed during the first dental implant surgery is removed and replaced with an abutment. After a few weeks, your dentist will begin creating the crown or bridge.

The Potential Challenges

Any dentist can attest that dental implant surgery is not without its challenges. There may be complications. For example, the bone may fail to attach properly to the implant or an infection may manifest. On rare occasions, the dentist may touch a nerve in the jawbone. The process of placing implants is not as simple as teeth straightening or other procedures like Invisalign treatments.

The Benefits Of Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants can provide a host of benefits. Not only can they improve your smile, but they're also far more comfortable and eliminate the slippage associated with dentures. The implants are extremely durable. In fact, it's not uncommon for them to last a lifetime if they're cared for properly.

Enjoying The Results

Your teeth are an important part of your overall appearance. Your smile plays a key role in making a good first (and lasting) impression. In major cities such as New York, San Diego, and Detroit, Invisalign, dental implants, cosmetic contouring, and other procedures are increasingly popular. If you're looking for a dentist in Detroit (or in any other major city), ask about their ability to take care of all of your dental needs. From dental implant surgery and root canal therapy to whitening and bonding, your dentist should be able to handle any procedure for you and your family.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly writes professional dentistry articles for the Southfield Family Dental Center, home of an experienced dentist in Detroit with a wide breadth of expertise. Their services includes Detroit Invisalign, tooth whitening, dental implant surgery, crowns, bridges and root canal therapy.

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