Many patients who have missing teeth consider dental implants as an option to restore the look and function of their smile. When deciding whether to have the procedure, it is important to learn as much as possible about the treatment.

4 things to know about dental implants

There are a variety of things patients should know about dental implants when considering the procedure.

1. There are different kinds of implant procedures

Dental implants come in two types and three sizes. Endosteal implants are the most common type. An implant screw, dental prosthesis, and a connector piece are the components of this type of implant. They come in standard, wide and mini sizes. Wider sizes are used for restoring molars and mini sizes are employed in tight spaces or with patients who lack the bone mass to support larger implants. Periosteal implants are made from a metal framework that is placed under the gums and on top of the jawbone.

2. Implants require dental surgery

Dental implants require dental surgery to place the posts in the jaw. Before the surgery, your dentist will take X-rays and perform a cone beam computed tomography scan to use in creating your treatment plan. During the procedure, the dentist removes any damaged or decayed teeth and then makes a small incision in the gums to expose the jawbone.

Next, the dentist shapes the tooth socket to prepare it for the implant screw. The dentist then places the implant in the jawbone and attaches a connector piece that will hold the replacement tooth. The dentist then moves the gums back into place and closes the incision with stitches. The dentist may attach a temporary restoration to the connector piece.

3. Dental implants require patient commitment

The jawbone must bond with the implant before the final restoration can be attached to the connector piece. This process usually takes three to six months. During this time, the implants are susceptible to damage because they are not strongly anchored into the jaw. Patients must follow their dentist's instructions during the recovery period to avoid complications, such as implant failure. Keep the implant site clean, follow the recommended daily hygiene routine, and eat soft foods during the recovery period.

4. Dental implants require a larger upfront investment than other restorations

Patients should be prepared to pay more for dental implants than other types of restorations. However, because implants are more durable, they may be more affordable over the lifetime of the treatment. Other restorations may need to be replaced. Dental implants can last a lifetime. Additionally, because implants help patients avoid bone loss, they may save the patient money on future dental treatments.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Scottsdale, AZ

Conclusion

The more you learn about dental implants, the better prepared you will be for the procedure. Talk to your dentist about what you should know about the procedure and be sure to ask questions about anything you do not understand or are concerned about.

Request an appointment or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

Recent Posts

What Is Required To Place Dental Implants?

The teeth are an essential part of the human body, which is why so many people turn to dental implants. Without enough teeth, it is harder for people to bite into and chew their food and harder to enunciate certain words when speaking. When many teeth are missing, the shape of the face will change,…

Are Dental Implants The Right Choice For You?

There are many benefits to dental implants, and once healed, implants look and feel much like natural teeth. Despite these benefits, they may not be the right choice for everyone. It is important to speak with a dentist and consider the current condition of your health before going forward with the procedure.Before you can get…

Dental Implants May Require A Bone Graft

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…

Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Share
Published by
Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Recent Posts

Invisalign for Teens: FAQs About the Procedure

Invisalign® has been around for a little more than two decades and, in that time,…

17 hours ago

Invisalign Can Correct Your Teen’s Improper Bite

The teenage years can be awkward, especially for those who have to deal with crooked…

4 days ago

Invisalign for Teens: Am I a Good Candidate?

There are various options for straightening teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for…

1 week ago

4 Tips to Improve a Teen’s Invisalign Experience

Invisalign® clear aligner trays are not just for adults; teenagers and some children can also…

2 weeks ago

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Whitening patients' teeth involves a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in one visit…

2 weeks ago

Can Invisalign for Teens Affect Speech?

A significant advantage of Invisalign® for teens is that it makes the treatment more discreet…

2 weeks ago