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10 Things To Know Before Getting Dental Implants
January 20, 2023  |  Dental Implants

10 Things To Know Before Getting Dental Implants


Are you considering dental implants as a way to restore your smile? Before you make that decision, it’s important to know all the facts about dental implants. There are many factors to consider before committing to dental implant surgery. In this article, we’ll cover 10 essential things you should know before getting dental implants.





1. What Are Dental Implants?





Dental implants are artificial roots that act as replacements for missing teeth. These titanium screws are surgically placed in the jawbone and act as an anchor for dental prostheses such as crowns, bridges or dentures to replace missing teeth. They can be used to support dental restorations and provide a natural-looking solution for replacing teeth.





2. Different Types of Dental Implants





There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal (subperiosteal) and transosteal. Endosteal dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone and are typically used for single-tooth replacements or bridges, while transosteal dental implants provide support to dentures that can replace full arches of teeth.





3. Benefits of Dental Implants





Dental implants offer a variety of benefits compared to other restorative dental procedures. They’re strong, durable, and long-lasting, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years when properly cared for. Additionally, dental implants help preserve healthy bone structure in the jaw by providing a stable foundation for dental restorations. They’re also the most natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth and can be used to support dental prostheses like bridges or dentures.





4. Dental Implant Procedure





The dental implant procedure involves multiple steps, including initial consultation, dental x-rays, preparation of the jawbone, placement of the dental implant post, abutment placement, and finally, dental restoration. Depending on your specific case and dental needs, your dentist or prosthodontist may recommend a single tooth replacement or a full arch of implants with a bridge or denture.





5. Cost of Dental Implants





The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, such as the number of dental implants needed, the type of dental prosthesis, and the dental surgery involved.





6. Risks & Side Effects





Although dental implant surgery is generally safe, there are some potential risks associated with the procedure, such as infection at the site of the implant or nerve damage resulting in pain. Additionally, bleeding and swelling may occur following the procedure, which can be treated with antibiotics or over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen.





7. Dental Implant Recovery





The recovery time for dental implants varies depending on the complexity of the dental procedure and how well you take care of your dental implants. Generally, it takes about 4-6 weeks for dental implants to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During this time, it’s important to avoid any activities that can cause trauma or damage to the dental implant site, such as chewing hard foods or playing contact sports.





8. Dental Implant Care





Proper dental implant care is essential for the long-term success of dental implants. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions on how to properly brush and floss around dental implants in order to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, which can lead to dental implant failure. Additionally, regular dental checkups are recommended in order to monitor the health of dental implants and dental restorations.





9. Dental Implant Maintenance





In addition to regular dental visits, dental implants should be maintained with other dental procedures such as professional teeth cleaning and scaling or root planing in order to remove plaque and calculus buildup that can lead to dental implant failure. Additionally, it’s important to watch for any changes in the dental implant site, such as discoloration or swelling, which may indicate a sign of infection and need to be addressed by your dentist immediately.





10. Alternatives To Dental Implants





Dental bridges are one alternative to dental implants that can be used to replace missing teeth. Bridges involve anchoring adjacent natural teeth on either side of the gap and attaching porcelain dental prostheses to the area. Similarly, dentures are also an option for replacing multiple teeth and can be removable or fixed depending on your dental needs.





Conclusion





Dental implants offer one of the most durable solutions for replacing missing teeth while preserving healthy bone structure in the jaw. While dental implant surgery is generally safe with minimal risks, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, recovery time, and dental implant care before having dental implant surgery. Additionally, there are alternatives to dental implants that may also be suitable for restoring dental function and aesthetics, depending on your case.





Q1: How long do dental implants last?

A1: On average, dental implants have an approximately 95% success rate and can last for up to 25 years or more with proper dental care and maintenance.

Q2: Does dental implant surgery hurt?

A2: Patients are given local anesthesia prior to dental implant surgery, which helps minimize any discomfort during the procedure. There may be some swelling and discomfort afterward, which can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or Tylenol.

Q3: Are dental implants covered by insurance?

A3: Dental implants may be partially or fully covered by dental insurance, depending on your individual plan. It’s important to check with your dental insurance provider before having dental implant surgery to see if it is a covered procedure and how much of the cost may be covered.