Tooth Implant Procedure: Are You a Good Candidate?

When suffering tooth loss, you may want to start planning for your tooth replacement quickly. Many patients want to get their natural smile back to look their best at work, school, or special events. Tooth loss happens for a variety of reasons. You may have severe decay, or have an injury, for example. After your mouth heals from tooth loss, talk to your dentist about tooth replacement options. 

Consultation for Tooth Implant Procedure

Meet with your dentist to find out more about your tooth implant procedure. You may have a follow-up exam after your tooth loss to make sure your mouth healed properly. You can then schedule an exam and consultation with a tooth implant surgeon. During the exam, the specialist may take x-rays to check for bone density. You can also talk to the financial department about the cost and payment options during this appointment. 

Preparing for Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

Before visiting an implant specialist, follow up with your dentist to examine the site of your lost tooth. You must have adequate healing of the gum and bone to continue with implants. If you have an infection or gum disease, your dentist may also want to resolve these issues before sending you to an implant specialist, as well. Once your dentist determines you have good oral health, you can meet with your implant specialist. If you have a full-service dental spa in Houston, your specialist may work with your dentist in the same building. 

    Will I have to continue to see the dentist after I have implants placed?

Your specialist may want you to come in for follow-up visits after your complete implant treatment to make sure your oral health remains intact. The entire implant process takes several months. If you need bone grafts, the treatment may exceed one year. You can expect to meet with your specialist several times during the process. After you receive your new teeth, continue visiting your general dentist for routine cleanings and exams. 

Find  the Best Dental Implant Specialist Near Me

Begin your search for an implant specialist by talking to your general dentist. Since many dental businesses have a  variety of doctors working together, you may not need to look at a new clinic. The professionals at Edge Dental can help you get started with the process. You can also look online or call your insurance company to find specialists for replacement teeth. Check credentials and customer reviews to find out more about a dental implant dentist in your area. 

Reasons for Dental Implants

Patients suffer tooth loss for many reasons. You may need a tooth extracted due to severe decay or infection, for example. Individuals also lose teeth as a result of injuries. Patients may get hurt in car accidents or playing sports. Sometimes a simple fall can lead to tooth loss. Dentists usually attempt to save a tooth before resorting to an extraction. A dental implant, however, looks natural and feels secure. 

    I’ve lived with my dentures for years, can’t I just get by with those?

The best type of tooth replacement for you may differ from that of other patients. Many people use dentures instead of implants. People often prefer implants due to their natural look, durability, and permanence. 

Getting Approved by a Dental Implant Dentist

You must have an exam and consultation to move forward with dental implants for missing teeth. Your oral surgeon must check your oral health and bone density. Some patients need bone grafting to strengthen the jaw bone before adding an implant. This can add several months to your overall treatment plan for dental implants. The specialists at Edge Dental can set up a treatment plan and prepare you for the procedure. 

Different Kinds of Dental Implants

Most patients simply need one implant to replace an extracted or lost tooth. Implant specialists, however, can replace an entire set of teeth with artificial teeth. With all-on-four implants, you can get an entire set of teeth with only four surgical implants. The implant placement procedure may differ for each patient, as well. Some surgeons leave the post exposed after placement. This method allows for the placement of your new tooth without opening the gum line a second time. If you prefer to wait for the abutment after your bone regenerates, you can schedule an appointment to have the surgeon open the implant site and place it several months later. 

    How are dental implants different from dentures?

Surgeons place dental implants into your jaw bone and wait for the bone to grow around them. Your bone holds the implant in place. Dentures are removable replacement teeth that attach with adhesive or metal clasps. Metal clasps on partial dentures hook around your existing teeth or implants. 

Why are dental implants the best solution?

Talk to your dentist about the best tooth replacement for your lifestyle. Many patients prefer dental implants since they feel and look natural. Dental implants are permanent, resulting in less concern over future replacements. 

Dental Care After an Implant Placement Procedure

Your dentist may talk to you about improving your oral hygiene to avoid future tooth loss. You also must remain vigilant to keep your gums healthy after receiving an implant. Schedule routine cleanings and exams twice a year with your general dentist. You may also need to refrain from eating extremely sticky or hard foods. You can enjoy a healthy smile after tooth loss with proper maintenance and dental care. 

Conclusion

Patients often want to replace a lost tooth as quickly as possible. With some patience, you can heal properly and start the implant process several months after tooth loss. Your dentist can help you through the healing process, and keep you healthy after receiving a dental implant. Implant treatments sometimes involve bone grafts, as well. Make an appointment with Edge Dental to get started on a treatment plant today!