If you need dental implants in Mount Vernon, NY, you're probably wondering what the procedure will be like. We walk through it here.
Missing a tooth? If so, you're far from alone. On average, U.S. adults
have 25.5 of the full set of 32 adult teeth.
Of course, knowing that you're in good company doesn't make it any easier to deal with the frustration of missing teeth. Speech issues, chewing problems, and even bone loss are common struggles when you lack one or more of your natural teeth.
That's where dental implants can help. As permanent tooth replacements, these solutions are a great way to return to the oral function you used to enjoy.
However, how do you know what to expect from a procedure? Let's take a look at what implant surgery entails.
Preparation
Before your dental surgery, you'll go through a planning process. This may involve your dentist as well as other dental specialists, especially if you need any additional bone grafting.
During this time, your dentist will do a full examination of your mouth. This will also involve taking impressions and X-rays of your teeth.
You'll also need to provide information about any medications you're taking or medical conditions you have. In some cases, your dentist may recommend taking antibiotics before your dental procedure to lower the risk of infection.
Once your dentist has all of this information, they will prepare a treatment plan. This plan will include insights into pre-implant procedures, bone grafting, gum disease treatment, and more. They will also discuss your options for reconstruction.
Initial Procedures
Before you undergo your dental implant procedure, you may need to go through other procedures first.
Gum Disease Treatment
You need strong, healthy gums to receive implants. If you have gum disease, your dentist will need to treat it before your implant surgery.
Depending on the extent of your gum disease, there are
several treatment options. For example, your dentist may do a deep cleaning with an ultrasonic cleaning device or perform gum grafting. Alternatively, they may ask you to use a custom-made treatment at home.
Tooth Extraction
If you haven't done so already, now is the time to remove the teeth that are causing problems. This may mean extracting decaying or damaged teeth. With your teeth gone, you'll have room for the new dental implants.
The process of
extracting a tooth is fast and simple. Your dentist will numb the area around your tooth before using special tools to remove the tooth. You should feel some pressure and a sensation of pulling, but there should be no pain.
You'll need to wait at least ten days between your tooth extraction and your implant procedure.
Bone Grafting
Depending on the type of dental implant you're getting, you may need a jawbone strong enough to protect that implant. If your jawbone isn't thick enough, you may need bone grafting.
During a bone grafting procedure, your oral surgeon will numb the area before making a small cut in your gums. They will then add bone grafting material to the area before closing the cut with stitches.
After a bone grafting, you will need time for healing before your implant surgery. Depending on the extent of the grafting, this may take anywhere from 3-12 months.
Placing the Metal Post
Once your healing is complete, it's time to get your dental implants.
The first phase of getting implants is the initial placement of the titanium post.
During this procedure, your oral surgeon will numb the area where the implants will go. If you've opted for sedation instead, they will also offer IV sedation.
Next, they'll make an incision in your gums to expose the bone underneath. This gives them space to place the metal post for the implant in your jawbone where your natural tooth used to be.
Once the implant is in place, your oral surgeon will close up your gums. This helps fill the space around the metal post, protecting it from harm.
After this procedure, you'll wait for your jawbone to grow around the metal post. This can take up to six months.
During this time, your dental provider can offer a temporary denture to fill the space where your natural tooth once was.
Placing the Abutment
After your jawbone has grown around the implant, you'll get an abutment. This is a connecting piece of the implant over which the crown will attach.
When you get an abutment, your oral surgeon will numb and reopen your gums to expose the metal post beneath. They will then attach the abutment.
This time, your dentist will close your gums around but not above the implant.
In some cases, your oral surgeon will place an abutment on the same day that they place the metal post. However, this can depend on your specific situation and preferences, so be sure to discuss it when you go over your timeline together.
Placing the Crown
The crown is the uppermost part of an implant, and it's the last procedure you'll need to complete your
implant surgeries.
The crown is a realistic-looking tooth that matches the appearance of your surrounding natural tooth. During the procedure, your oral surgeon will permanently affix each implant to its designated post. If you've chosen implant-supported dentures, which are removable, your dentist will add the entire bridge in one sitting.
Contact Us for Dental Implants
If you're on the fence about dental implants, knowing what to expect from the procedure may help you feel more comfortable. We often recommend dental implants as a great way to smile with more confidence and get back your oral functionality after you've lost a tooth.
When you're ready to jump in, it's important to partner with an experienced dentist in Mount Vernon, NY. We know that each patient's situation is unique, and we go to great lengths to create and implement a treatment plan that meets your needs. To learn more about how we can help, contact us with questions or request a consultation today.
