Nothing can give one more pain than losing teeth at an early age. While minor dental issues can be fixed through simple treatments, one of the solution to lost teeth is a dental implant. It is an artificial tooth root that is anchored into the patients’ jaw surgically, which helps in holding a replacement tooth or bridge in place. These replacements are everlasting and constant as they don’t require any support from neighboring teeth. Plus, they look natural and beautiful.
To make dental implants in San Antonio, you may find a wide variety of metallic and ceramic materials compatible with body tissue. Usually, dental implants are available in two different types – the first type is directly placed into the jaw bone, just like the natural tooth roots through surgical methods. The second one is used when the jaw structure is narrow and tight. Hence, a custom made metal framework is required to be placed on the existing bone.
How do dental implants work?
If correctly placed, the dental implants can provide permanent support to the cemented bridges, obviating a denture’s need. They may be a little costly, but they are more persistent, and when placed strategically, they look like real teeth.
Who can get dental implants?
Having a proper bone structure and healthy gums is necessary to get dental implants. Those enduring chronic diseases such as clenching or systemic diseases like diabetes need to consult with a professional dental San Antonio expert before dental implants. Remember, part of its success depends on the overall health of the patient. Similarly, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates for dental implants.
What is the procedure?
As dental implants involve a surgical method to place the artificial root into your jaw bone, the procedure requires clinical expertise and facilities along with local anesthesia. After the initial consultation, the dentist will give you a comprehensive examination. They will perform an X-ray and CT scan and discuss the possible options to develop a plan for the implant surgery.
Once you have developed a plan and given your consent, they’ll schedule an appointment for the surgery. The procedure may require IV sedation. So, be sure to arrange for someone to bring you home that day.
What to expect during the procedure?
The entire procedure involves several phases. In the first phase, the surgical placement of the implant is carried. The doctor will inject local anesthesia to eliminate pain and discomfort during the surgery.
An incision is made in your gums to place the tooth root implant into the jawbone in the missing tooth’s location. Once the implant is placed, the gum is secured over the implant until it remains covered. The professional dentist in San Antonio will take care of the process with precision and care.
The recovery period continues up to 3 to 6 months. Then you come back for the second phase of the procedure. By this time, the bone grows strong enough around the implant and stay in place. This process is called Osseo integration, meaning the titanium combines with the bone.
Once the implant is secured, a connecting piece called an abutment is inserted over the implant’s post portion. This is the part that will accommodate the new tooth.
When your gums heal, the dentist will look over your teeth and create a custom replacement tooth. The crown is then placed upon the abutment.
Food and Drink:
If you need local anesthesia, you will be advised to take a light meal a couple of hours before the procedure. If the surgery requires IV sedation, it is essential not to eat anything after midnight to make sure your stomach is empty.
Medications:
Sometimes, your dentists may prescribe antibiotics that you must take for a few days before surgery to avoid early implant failures. You may also be prescribed a special anti-bacterial mouthwash, such as chlorhexidine, to rinse your mouth.
Pre-Surgery Lifestyle Changes:
If you are in the habit of smoking or drinking, a dental implant may not be a good option for you. This is because tobacco or drinking causes a delay in the healing process, thereby disrupting the dental implant process. Hence, it is essential to tell your dentist about your smoking and drinking habits and seek advice regarding dental implants.
What is the duration of the complete procedure?
Considering your dental health and situation, the procedure may take up to 9 months to complete. The timeframe may not be the same for every patient, for different patients have different healing capacity. Usually, when the surgery is done correctly, the healing process can take up to 3 to 6 months, and the insertion of the artificial teeth no more than two months. It won’t take more than just one appointment for placement of the extension and insertion of the replacement teeth for a patient with good bone quality.
How to take care of implants:
After the surgery, it is crucial to take good care of the implants by flossing and brushing around the fixtures at least twice a day. Specific instructions should be followed to take care of implants.
Long Term Care:
Dental implants typically demand the same dental hygiene as your regular teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are necessary to keep them in good health. Seeing your dentist for regular follow-up appointments is critical for the well-being of your dental health. Although dental implants remain unaffected by tooth decay, they can be impacted by periodontal disease. So, it’s essential to take special care of your dental health.
Choosing the best dental clinic is necessary if you want to get the best dentist’s surgery in San Antonio. Not everyone is the right candidate for this dental procedure. You need to follow post-surgery guidelines set by the dentist. The operation’s success rate largely depends on how you behave and follow the safety rules issued by your dental expert.