Missing teeth can significantly impact a person’s appearance, confidence, and quality of life. Thankfully, dental implant placement is a long-term solution for people with missing teeth. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s crucial to understand the process and what to expect during the procedure.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dental implant placement by a periodontist, including what dental implants are, the benefits of dental implants, the implant placement procedure, and aftercare instructions.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are anchored to your jawbone. They’re made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with your jawbone to create a sturdy foundation for your new tooth. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, so they’ll blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
- Better oral health: Unlike other tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures, dental implants don’t require the removal of healthy teeth. This means that your adjacent teeth will remain intact, which promotes better oral health.
- Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They’re also resistant to decay and won’t require any special maintenance.
- Improved speech: Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak properly. Dental implants allow you to speak naturally, so you won’t have to worry about slurring your words or having difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Improved self-esteem: Missing teeth can impact your confidence and self-esteem. Dental implants can restore your smile, so you’ll feel more confident in social situations.
The Dental Implant Placement Procedure
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure that involves several steps. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: Your periodontist will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and discuss your medical history to determine if dental implants are the right option for you.
- Implant placement: Your periodontist will place the implant into your jawbone. The implant will be left to fuse with your bone for several months, during which time a temporary crown may be placed over the implant.
- Abutment placement: After the implant has fused with your bone, your periodontist will place an abutment onto the implant. The abutment is a connector that attaches the implant to the crown.
- Crown placement: Once the abutment is in place, your periodontist will attach a custom-made crown to the abutment. The crown is designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
Aftercare Instructions
After your dental implant placement, your periodontist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Take pain medication as directed by your periodontist.
- Avoid chewing on the implant site for the first few days after surgery.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly, taking care to avoid the implant site.
- Attend follow-up appointments with your periodontist as scheduled.
In Conclusion
Dental implant placement is an effective and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. If you’re considering dental implants, be sure to consult with a periodontist who specializes in implant placement. By following proper aftercare instructions, you can ensure the success of your dental implant procedure and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.