Dental implants are a type of dental fixture that replaces damaged teeth with realistic-looking fake teeth. They are highly effective at providing patients with replacement teeth that look and feel like the real thing. As with any serious procedure, it is wise to learn about the functionality of these implants prior to their installation. This can help ensure that whatever procedure is performed ends up being a success. If you are considering dental implants, take a look at this guide, which describes the exact way that these implants work.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth that seek to replicate the look and feel of teeth that may have been damaged or lost. Many different conditions and accidents can damage or destroy a tooth, and dental implants are one of the preferred solutions for repair in such situations.
Some elements of dental implant surgery depend on the condition of one’s jaw and the specifics of the exact type of implant needed. Generally, for a dental implant to perform its function, the bones and muscles of the mouth need to form around and fuse to the implant in a process called osseointegration.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
During a dental implant procedure, a dentist anchors an artificial implant to the surrounding areas of the mouth utilizing a titanium screw. This screw is inserted into the abscess in the mouth where the missing tooth or teeth used to be. The titanium screw fuses with the jawbone, becoming a part of the patient’s mouth and teeth in a natural-feeling way.
There are many different scenarios where a dental implant can be useful, but not everyone is approved for them. The following conditions must be met in order for dental implants to be considered:
- You have generally good oral health.
- You have one or more missing teeth.
- You have a healthy jawbone.
- You do not use tobacco.
- You are unable or unwilling to wear dentures.
- You do not have health conditions that affect bone healing.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
The primary benefit of receiving this type of dental work is that a patient receives a realistic-looking and feeling imitation tooth. This tooth offers the same level of functionality as one’s regular teeth. Additional benefits of dental implant surgery include the following:
- Improved oral health
- Restored ease when eating and drinking
- Enhanced aesthetic appearance of the teeth and mouth
- Greater sense of confidence regarding one’s teeth and mouth
Depending on the severity of the dental injury sustained prior to receiving dental implant work, the successful installation of dental implants can give one a much higher and stronger sense of confidence and dental health in general. This has the potential to impact an individual’s overall sense of well-being in very profound ways.
Risks Associated With Dental Implants
There are some risks associated with receiving dental implant treatment. That said, many of these risks are considered rare and easily managed. Some of the more common risks associated with dental implant treatment are:
- Mild injury to the surrounding structures of the mouth, including teeth or blood vessels
- Infection at the implant site
- Sinus problems
- Nerve damage, which can cause pain and numbness at the surgical site
Prior to your procedure, you will communicate with your doctor about the potential for any mishaps or risks. You can work together to determine your personal susceptibility to any complications.
After Your Procedure
There are side effects that can be anticipated from dental implant surgery. Some of the common ones include:
- Bruising of the skin
- Pain at your surgical site
- Mild bleeding and swelling
- General discomfort in the mouth and face
Some individuals will find that they require pain medication or additional assistance to fully recover from their procedure and to manage their post-surgical symptoms. You should discuss any required or potentially required medications with your physician prior to surgery and follow up with them afterward.
The Top Dentist in Bloomington
Valley Alder Family Dentistry is one of the premier places in Bloomington to receive dental implants. If you think you might benefit from this type of implant, contact our office today to set up an appointment and get the ball rolling on the best dental work you can receive.
