If you are missing teeth and are considering dental implants, there are a number of things you should know. Implants are a popular choice for replacement, but the process takes time to complete. You should make sure you are a good candidate and get all your questions answered before choosing the procedure.
There are numerous options for teeth replacement, but implants have gained in popularity over the years for numerous reasons. Because titanium rods are inserted directly into the jaw and bone grows around the implants, there is a stable foundation for the artificial teeth. This means you can chew and speak normally, and they look like real teeth. Implants also prevent bone loss of the jaw. If taken care of, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Unlike some replacement procedures, dental implants require some planning and preparation. If you know what to expect and plan accordingly, you should have a better overall experience.
Not everyone is a good candidate for implants. If they are something you are interested in, your dentist will conduct a thorough consultation and exam. During this visit, your medical and dental history will be reviewed, and the dentist will inspect your gums, teeth, and jaw to make sure there is no decay and that there is adequate density in the jawbone to support the implants. The dentist will also ask about any medical conditions and lifestyle habits, such as smoking, that may indicate that dental implants are not the right option.
If you have decayed or destroyed teeth that need to be removed, the dentist will extract them first. You may also need a bone graft to increase the density in the jaw. These need to be completed and healed before the implant procedure can begin.
One of the biggest ways patients can prepare for dental implants is to understand that this is not a quick process. There are multiple steps, and the area needs to heal first before moving on to the next step. You should mentally prepare for the procedure to take an average of nine to 12 months.
After the placement of the implants, you will need to plan for aftercare. It will take a little while for your gums to heal and for you to get used to your new teeth. You should arrange for someone else to drive you home after many of the visits.
You should also plan to have soft foods ready, so you do not have to worry about cooking when you arrive home. Some good options to have around include:
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Winston-Salem, NC
Dental implants are a good option for many people who want to replace missing teeth. Because the procedure is a lengthy process, there are ways that you can prepare to make it go smoother.
Request an appointment or call Dental Center of the Carolinas at 336-542-2184 for an appointment in our Winston-Salem office.
One of the most popular restorations for missing teeth is dental implants. However, that does not mean that they are appropriate for every patient. Under certain circumstances, implants may be contraindicated. If you are interested in this treatment, you should discuss with your dentist whether you are a candidate.The implant procedure involves multiple steps.A rod…
For many people, dental implants can be a permanent solution for dealing with lost or damaged teeth. This type of treatment is designed to last a lifetime. Once it is complete and healed, patients can enjoy a more beautiful smile without having to worry about any dietary changes, difficult home care, or unnatural-looking teeth.Dental implants…
One of the requirements for a patient to be able to get a dental implants procedure is that the patient must have sufficient jaw bone to anchor the implant. Some patients who do not have adequate bone mass may be able to get implants by first having a bone graft procedure.A dental bone graft procedure…
Medical hospitals are often unequipped to handle dental emergencies; this is when an emergency dentist becomes necessary. Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency is important for patients to get the help they need right away. Once patients know they are dealing with a dental emergency, they can look up “emergency dentist near me” instead…
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily are oral hygiene basics, but what about using mouthwash? Is it an essential part of keeping your teeth healthy.Except for fluoride rinses, mouthwashes are generally not part of the daily oral care routine recommended by dentists, but that does not mean it has no value. Using mouthwash correctly can…