When Teeth Are Missing
It can be embarrassing to have spaces in your mouth where teeth are missing. But you're not alone. Some people lose teeth due to injury, tooth decay, or periodontal disease (infection of the gums and bone surrounding teeth). Others may not have had all their teeth grow in. Whatever the reason, dental implants can help replace missing teeth. And implants often feel more natural than dentures and other dental restorations.
Implants Can Help
If you want a dental restoration that looks and feels as though it's really part of your mouth, dental implants may be right for you. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root. Your jawbone fuses with the implant to provide a secure platform for a prosthesis (artificial tooth).
If you are missing many teeth, several implants can be used to support a partial or complete denture.
Working Together
Throughout the implant process you'll work closely with a dental team. Part of the team prepares your jaw and surgically places the implant. Others build and adjust the prosthesis.
* Your surgeon may be an oral surgeon, periodontist, or a general dentist skilled in dental implant procedures.
* Your restorative dentist may be a prosthodontist or general dentist.
Preparing for Surgery
Most implant surgeries are performed in a dental office. To prepare for surgery, follow your surgeon's instructions. Also:
* Tell your surgeon if you're taking any medications or herbal remedies.
* Wear comfortable clothes to the office.
* Take antibiotics if prescribed.
* If you will be sedated or asleep (under general anesthesia) during the surgery, arrange for an adult to give you a ride home. Also, don't eat or drink for several hours before surgery.
Your Surgical Experience
Upon arriving, you may be asked to rinse your mouth with an antiseptic. You may also be given medication to help you relax or to make you sleepy. Right before surgery, the jaw is numbed. Then the jawbone is prepared so the implants can be placed. If you're awake, you may hear sounds or feel vibrations. But you shouldn't feel any pain. The length of the surgery depends on how many implants are placed.
After Surgery
When your surgery is over, you may rest a while. But you can go home as soon as you feel able. Be aware that a certain amount of swelling and minor bleeding is normal. To speed your recovery, be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions. You may be told to:
* Drink only clear liquids for the rest of the day.
* Take pain medications and antibiotics.
* Avoid putting pressure on your jaw.
* Eat soft foods for the first few days as your mouth begins to heal.
* Avoid wearing your temporary prosthesis or denture for a certain amount of time.
Follow-up Care
It often takes a few months for jawbone to firmly attach to implants. During that time, you'll have several follow-up visits with your surgeon. This is to see how well your jaw is healing. If you wear a denture, you may also visit your restorative dentist. He or she may put a new lining in your denture for greater comfort. |