Tooth implants, or dental implants, are a common tooth-replacement option that uses an abutment and a prosthetic, such as a crown, bridge, or fixed dentures. There are three parts to the tooth implant process; however, surgery is required only for the placement of the implants. The other parts involve preparation and restoration. The word "surgery" often sparks fear in people as it implies that there will be discomfort afterward. While surgery can cause pain, tooth implant surgery is relatively simple and streamlined, so there is nothing to be afraid of, particularly when working with an experienced dental professional.
Below is a quick overview of tooth implant surgery and what dentists say about fear around the procedure. This information can be helpful to review when preparing for an upcoming tooth implant procedure.
Tooth implants are used to replace the missing tooth's structure, also known as the roots. The implant itself is made of titanium and shaped like a screw. After the placement surgery, the general dentist will attach an abutment and the artificial tooth, which is a dental crown for a single replacement or a bridge for multiple teeth. If an entire arch is needed, the general dentist may recommend fixed dentures that attach to the implants.
It is important to understand the tooth implant procedure to see why there is nothing to be afraid of. To start, the patient is medicated with a local anesthetic to ensure that they are comfortable and do not feel the pain of the procedure. Next, the dentist places the tooth implant beneath the gums and into the jawbone, where it will eventually fuse with the bone. Lastly, the gums are sutured to ensure that the wound heals properly. The patient is then sent home to recover and begin the process of osseointegration.
While surgery is required for tooth implant placement, it is important to know about the sedation options and medications available beforehand. This means patients feel no pain during the procedure. Afterward, there will be discomfort and soreness; however, those are also remedied with pain management, such as over-the-counter medication and using ice to numb the treatment area. While the process of osseointegration takes a few months, the wound typically heals quickly.
As far as the safety of the procedure, dentists have revolutionized the way oral surgeries are done. Safer techniques and methods have been implemented to ensure that there is no risk of infection or damage when placing the actual tooth implants.
Are you still feeling anxious or afraid about tooth implant placement? Talking directly with a general dentist can be helpful. They can provide insight into each patient's specific situation. Additionally, questions and concerns can be properly addressed. Reach out today to schedule an appointment or learn more about tooth implants.
Request an appointment here: https://parsonspointedentalcare.com or call Parsons Pointe Dental Care at (770) 538-1203 for an appointment in our Johns Creek office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Implants in Johns Creek, GA.
Gum disease, if left untreated, often results in tooth loss, leaving many patients to wonder if they can get dental implants. Even gum disease patients who do not develop the advanced form of the disease, known as periodontitis, may want to replace missing or decayed teeth with implants. Is this possible, or will unhealthy gums…
For those who severely damage or lose a permanent tooth, dental implants can restore the appearance and function of a healthy smile. This option produces a durable and more natural-looking replacement than other alternatives, such as crowns or bridges. While the treatment process can be lengthy, most patients find they can return to a normal…
For many people, dental implants are life-changing, as they drastically improve the appearance of the smile and increase overall comfort and function. That said, the process of installing implants is invasive, requiring several surgeries. As with any surgery, proper care post-implantation is key to preventing infection and ensuring the procedure’s success.Any area of the body…
Dental implant placement is becoming more and more popular for people who are in need of tooth replacement or restoration. The procedure offers a person the ability to have a confident smile while also maintaining good oral health.While the dental implant placement procedure is relatively straightforward, there are a lot of important elements to the…
Gum disease develops in stages, and early action protects oral health and overall wellness. This common condition starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates along the gumline. When not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the tissues and triggers inflammation. Without treatment, inflammation can spread into deeper structures, damaging the ligaments and…
Jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing can severely impact daily life. Fortunately, a TMJ dentist offers specialized care to diagnose and treat disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), providing relief and restoring comfort. These dental professionals specialize in identifying the underlying causes of TMJ disorders and developing treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.The temporomandibular…