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://www.hudgensdental.com or call Hudgens Dental at (843) 588-5115 for an appointment in our Charleston office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Implants in Charleston, SC.
An implant crown can closely match the appearance of a natural tooth and can be essentially indistinguishable from adjacent natural teeth. This review discusses what an implant crown is and how a dentist can ensure that your implant crown looks as natural as possible.One of the main reasons that patients seek implant crown treatment is…
You do not need to live with a smile you feel embarrassed to reveal; a cosmetic dentist can transform the aesthetics of your teeth, giving you a confidence boost. You have good reason to think about the appearance of your teeth. It is one of the first things people notice about you, and it often…
A visit to a cosmetic dentist should be your first step if you are considering transforming your smile. These professionals can address dental issues that affect the appearance of teeth, such as discoloration, breaks, or missing teeth.Choosing a cosmetic dentist is a significant decision, as some general dentists are more skilled in this area than…
Visits to a Kid-Friendly Dentist help children build positive dental habits by creating a welcoming, supportive environment that encourages comfort and confidence from an early age. A positive childhood experience often shapes lifelong attitudes toward oral health, making regular dental care easier as children grow. A dentist who understands the unique needs of young patients…