Building Confidence With Dental Beauty

One of the reasons that some people are a bit hesitant to consider dental implants is simply because the process of getting these implants is technically classified as dental surgery. While it is understandable that many people wish to avoid surgical procedures when possible, the fact is that this procedure is not nearly as invasive as the word surgery may suggest. In fact, once you take the time to really review the steps involved in getting dental implants, you will likely find that it is well worth the benefits that implants are able to provide. 

Getting Ready For Surgery

The first part of the implant process is really non-invasive. This step simply involves your dentist taking both x-rays and molds of your mouth. The x-rays allow the dentist to ensure your jawbone has the required strength and thickness to support an implant. The molds provide the dentist with the information they need to have a dental crown fashioned that perfectly mimics the size and shape of your natural teeth. If you are replacing an already missing tooth, this will be the extent of your first visit to the dentist. If you are replacing a damaged or decayed tooth, your dentist may also wish to extract the tooth during this visit in order to allow for some healing time prior to moving on to the next step. While you may experience a bit of discomfort after an extraction, the pain is typically quite manageable with over-the-counter medications. 

The Day Of Surgery

This is the part of the process that is often a source of anxiety for people. However, there truly is no reason to be concerned. This step of the process will be completed at your dentist's office, and you will be able to go home almost immediately after the process is completed. In most cases, a general anesthetic will be used to ensure you don't experience any discomfort. 

While you are under anesthesia, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum in order to allow them access to your jawbone. The metal implant will be placed in a small hole inside the jawbone, and the incision will then be closed using a few stitches. If you are worried about going without a tooth until the final step of the process, you will be supplied with a temporary denture at this time. Once the anesthesia wears off enough for you to safely stand, you will be able to leave. However, it is important to note that you will need someone to drive you home due to the use of general anesthesia.

The Finishing Touch

This final step in the process will typically take place a few weeks after your surgery to ensure that your jawbone has had plenty of time to heal. At this point in the process, all of the hard work has already been done. Your dentist will take another set of x-rays to make sure that the bone has healed around the implant. As long as ample healing has taken place, your new crown will be fitted onto your implant, and you will be free to share your beautiful new smile with the world. In the event more healing time is required, your dentist will simply have you return to their office in a few more weeks in order to attach your crown. 

Contact a clinic like Parkview Dental to learn more.