Dental implants are a great way to revamp your smile with a more permanent solution. Whether it be with a whole set of implants, a bridge, or even one single implant, the benefits of using a dental implant outweigh the risks. When you are having a dental implant procedure done, it is common to feel a little bit of discomfort and anxiety. However, planning for such a procedure and knowing what to expect can help alleviate those feelings. In this article, we will go through what dental implants are and how to prepare before, during, and after the procedure is complete.
What are Dental Implants?
As far back as 600 AD, dental implants have been put into the mouths of patients. Dental implants can be thought of as artificial tooth roots that are placed into your jawbone. From there, a connector is placed to hold the crowns, which are custom-made artificial teeth that are made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are placed into the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gums, but on top of the jawbone. If you have broken, chipped, or missing teeth, dental implants can provide a sturdy replacement without looking fake or artificial.
How to Prepare for a Dental Implant Procedure
When getting any dental procedure, and including a dental implant procedure, you must start by getting a complete dental exam. During this exam, your dentist will take x-ray pictures of your teeth, a visual exam of your teeth, and collect your recent medical history. This exam can also give your dentist the chance to review your immune system, allergies, and any medication interactions with you prior to the procedure. Lastly, this meeting will decide whether your procedure can be done in one procedure or if further work needs to be done and requires the procedure split in two. Ultimately, this exam will formulate the treatment plan for your dental implants.
The next step in your preparation for dental implant surgery is preparing your body. After all, your body is going through the procedure. The better shape your body is in, the better your outcome. In speaking with your dentist, they may advise you to start on a round of antibiotics to thwart any infection in your body prior to the procedure. This will only benefit you in the long run. You will also be required to fast for 12 hours prior to the procedure. Lastly, be prepared to wear loose and comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure.
Another step you may want to consider is getting your jaw prepared for the procedure. Because the procedure will directly involve implants into and/or on your jawbone, it is important to discuss preparations with your dentist. If your jawbone is too thin, your dentist may recommend a bone graft. They may also recommend a smoothing and/or reshaping of your jaw. You may also need to have any bulkiness removed from your jaw as well as any impacted teeth. If your dentist requires you to go through any of these prior to your implant procedure, you will need to wait for your jaw to fully heal before proceeding with the implants.
Lastly, you will want to prepare for the downtime that will follow your procedure. You will want to make sure that you have over-the-counter medication for pain and ice packs available for your recovery period. These will help relieve the temporary pain after your procedure. You will only be able to eat liquids right after surgery, so be sure you have stocked up on soups and drinkable liquids. FInally, you will want to plan ahead of time for the days that you will need to recover from the procedure. Whether this means taking a few days off from work or school, lightening your schedule for a week, or arranging for childcare, make sure you are able to relax during your recovery time.Getting dental implants can make all the difference in your life and increase your self-confidence. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, contact Guillot Family Dental. Their team of experts are ready to provide you with all of the information that you need to improve your smile!
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