Dental implant surgery is a procedure where the tooth roots are replaced with metal, screw-like posts. Dental implants are considered a great alternative to bridgework or dentures that don’t fit well. Dental implant surgery can also involve several procedures. One of the primary benefits of dental implants is robust support for replacement teeth.
How the dental implant procedure will be carried out will depend on the condition of the jawbone and the type of the implant. Dental implant procedure can involve several processes. One of the most enticing benefits of dental implants is robust support for the artificial tooth. This requires that the bone fuses successfully with the implant.
Preparing for a Dental Implant Procedure
The planning phase can involve several specialists. It can also include doctors who specialize in the conditions of the jaw, face, and mouth (maxillofacial and oral surgeon), dentists specializing in treating structures that support the teeth (periodontist), and a dentist who fits and designs artificial teeth (prosthodontist).
In some instances, the expertise of an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist may also be required. Since the dental implant procedure can involve one or more surgical procedures, preparing for the process will involve a thorough evaluation. Some of the processes patients will undergo during the planning stage involve:
- Comprehensive dental exam. Dental X-rays and 3D images will be taken so models of the jaw and teeth can be made.
- Thorough review of medical history. Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive review of your medical history. This includes any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you have orthopedic implants or certain heart conditions, antibiotics may be prescribed before the surgery to ward off infection.
- Treatment plan. The treatment plan will be tailored to your specific condition and will take into consideration certain factors like the remaining teeth and the condition of the jawbone.
To manage pain, anesthesia options include sedation and local and general anesthesia. It is recommended that you speak with your dental specialist about the option that is best for your case. You will be instructed by your dental team about the food and beverages you can consume before the procedure.
What You Can Expect
Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure that is typically carried out in stages (with healing time in between procedures). The process of placing dental implants can also involve several steps, including:
- Removal of damage tooth/teeth
- Preparation of the jawbone (grafting, when needed)
- Placement of the dental implant(s)
- Bone growth and healing
- Placement of the abutment
- Placement of the artificial tooth
The whole dental implant process can take several months from start to finish. Much of the time will be devoted to waiting for the implant to fuse with the jawbone and to healing. Depending on the situation, the materials used, and the specific procedure, some steps can sometimes be combined.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Whether you will have dental implant in one or several stages, it is likely that you will experience a few but minimal discomforts including:
- Bruising of the gums and skin
- Swelling of the face and gums
- Minor bleeding
- Pain at the implant site
Your dentist will also likely prescribe antibiotics and medications after the dental implant procedure. If discomfort, swelling, or other problems linger or get worse several days after the procedure, get in touch with your oral surgeon right away.
Also, at each stage of the dental procedure, you might need to consume only soft foods until the surgical site has healed completely. Usually, your surgeon will be using stitches that will dissolve on their own. Otherwise, your dentist will remove them.
