There are a few reasons you might lose a tooth as an adult. A root canal can kill the tooth, or gum disease can cause it to become loose and fall out. If you have a missing tooth, you have two options: you can either leave the space empty or get a tooth implant. Leaving the space empty can cause your teeth to shift inward and increase the risk of infection. A tooth implant is a permanent solution that will restore your smile.
Here’s what you should expect from the surgery:
1. You Need to Qualify for a Tooth Implant
To be a good candidate for a tooth implant, you need to have a strong jawbone, healthy oral tissues, and a jawbone that has reached total growth. You also can’t have any conditions preventing the bone from healing properly. Finally, you shouldn’t smoke, which can also interfere with healing.
2. You Might Require Bone Grafting
A bone graft is a surgical procedure in which bone tissue is transplanted from one body area to another. In the case of dental implants, a bone graft may be necessary if the jawbone is too thin or soft to support the implant hardware. This is because the implants must be able to withstand the tremendous pressure that is exerted on the jaw while chewing. If the bone structure is poorly developed, the implants will likely come loose.
A dental implant is a metal post surgically placed into the jawbone. Once in place, a small connector piece called an abutment is placed on top of the implant, and a new tooth (called a crown) is placed on top of the abutment.
3. The Entire Process Could Take Months
A dental implant is a metal post surgically implanted into your jawbone. Once the implant heals, an artificial tooth is attached to the post. The entire process could take several months to complete.
The dentist will then look closely at your teeth and gums, looking for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other problems. They will also check your bite, looking for any signs of misalignment. Finally, they will discuss your options for treatment based on what they have found.
The dentist will check to see if the inflammation could cause problems during the tooth implant surgery. If there is a risk, the dentist will discuss precautions, such as an antibiotic treatment to prevent infection. If the risks are too great, the dentist may suggest an alternative, such as dentures.
If approved, the dentist will perform the following in order:
- Remove the damaged tooth
- Clean and disinfect the open gum
- Prepare the jawbone and check if a bone graft is needed
- Place the metal post of the dental implant
- Give time for the gum to heal and the bone to grow
- Place the implant abutment
- Add the artificial tooth
Conclusion
Getting a tooth implant is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. You should expect a few things when getting an implant, such as pain, swelling, and bruising. These side effects are normal and will subside within a few days. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions to care for your implant to ensure it heals properly.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry is your local dentist in Danvers, offering everything from basic services, like general cleanings and exams, to more complex procedures, like implant surgery and gum disease treatment. We have a long-standing reputation for providing gentle, comfortable dental care. If you’re considering getting dental implants in Danvers, MA, book an appointment with us! Call our Danvers office at (978) 774-0725.