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://lbfamilydental.com or call Leila Zamiri DDS at (562) 387-1216 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
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