Dental implants are available in the form of titanium posts and surgically fixed into a patient’s jawbone beneath their gum line. Such posts act like artificial tooth roots for teeth placements designed to look and function like natural teeth. Dental implants from lawton dentistry tend to fuse with the jawbone. Thus, a patient can eat, speak, and engage in daily activities without being conscious of their missing teeth or dentures. Dental implants are a good alternative to dentures and missing teeth. Keep reading to learn more about them:
Who Should Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants are perfect for those who lost at least one tooth. The tooth loss can be because of conditions such as tooth decay, injury, or periodontitis. Dental implants are permanent fixtures; thus, you can brush and floss them like natural teeth. They are an ideal option for people who have active lifestyles. Also, patients who wish to have a beautiful smile without wearing dentures should get dental implants.
Generally, dental implants are safe for patients who are healthy enough to go through oral surgery. But you must visit your dentist to know that you have healthy gums and enough jawbone to support the implant. Also, you may need to give your dentist information about your medical history to make sure you do not have conditions that can cause complications while you undergo the procedure.
How Dental Implants are Installed
To start a dental treatment, you must get a comprehensive dental examination, such as dental X-rays. Also, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth that they will use for making the artificial teeth. These artificial teeth will later be fitted over your dental implant. In addition, your dentist will ensure you are a great candidate for an implant by reviewing your medical history.
Although the procedure may sound scary, your dentist can let you choose from different options to manage pain. These options include general anesthesia, local anesthesia, and sedation. Your surgeon will help you choose the right option for you. Depending on the kind of anesthesia you opt for, your surgeon will give pre-surgery instructions. Over-the-counter pain medications can relieve any pain you may feel after the procedure.
The procedure starts with inserting a titanium rod in the jawbone to serve as the artificial tooth’s base. Once your jawbone fuses around the rod after it has healed, an abutment will be attached to the rod. This abutment will securely hold the new tooth in place.
