What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants replace missing teeth. They consist of a titanium implant that's fused to your jaw bone, a hook called an abutment that keeps the third piece, the crown, in place. 

Getting dental implants stabilizes your facial structures and encourages bone growth because teeth keep the jaw strong. They also make activities like eating, talking, and drinking easier. The look and feel of a dental implant mimic your real teeth so many people will never know that you have implants. 

Dental implants have a tremendous success rate, over 90 percent, which is remarkable for a permanent fixture. They don't move around, require very little maintenance other than regular brushing, flossing, check-ups, and they're built to last a lifetime when they're cared for well.

The Dental Implant Procedure

What is a dental implant procedure? A dental implant procedure is a dental implant surgery, which is often an outpatient procedure, but it takes place in phases and usually at the dentist's office. 

The first phase is the placement of the titanium implant, and the second phase is attaching the crown to the abutment. Here is a basic timeline of the dental implant procedure with a dentist in Rockway Beach NY. 

First Phase

Scheduling a consultation with your dentist is the first step in getting dental implants. You need to make sure you're an ideal candidate and your dentist is the only one who can clear you for the procedure. Some people who have certain medical conditions may not be eligible, but if you have a strong jaw, you should have no problems. 

In some cases, patients may need a bone graft to prepare their jawbone for surgery. You may need other procedures as well such as x-rays, molds, or tooth extractions.

Once you're cleared for dental implants, you'll schedule your appointment for the first phase. It's important to remember that the entire procedure can take several months. Inserting the implant consists of the dentist numbing your gums and jaw, making a small incision, and placing the implant in your gums.

Your dentist uses a numbing agent or sedation to make you comfortable during the procedure. When the procedure ends, and the sedation wears off, you may have some pain, bleeding, and swelling at the site of the implant. This typically goes away over time, but if it doesn't be sure to contact your dentist. 

After the placement of the implant, you'll go through a healing period. This is the time when osseointegration occurs, meaning the jawbone infuses the implant, which creates the permanency of the implant.

Second Phase

The second phase happens after the healing period. This time of healing is important because it ensures that the implant cannot move and is stable enough to hold the crown. 

You'll make an appointment to come back to your dentist a few months later to secure the abutment. The dentist may need to make another incision in your gums to access the implant to place the abutment. 

Your Dentist in Rockway Beach NY then creates a crown using a mold of your teeth. After the crown is fashioned, it's connected to the abutment.

Preparing For Your Dental Implant Procedure

Your dentist will give you exact instructions on preparing for your dental implant. But here are a few things you can expect. 

If you're sensitive to sedation, you may want to arrange a ride home. Driving while still sedated is unsafe. 

Depending on what kind of anesthetic your dentist uses, it may be advisable to eat a small meal. But ask your dentist first. 

You'll need to give your dentist a list of all medications you're taking so none conflict with your procedure. They may give you a prescription for antibiotics to prevent any type of infection. 

Post-Dental Implant Surgery

Your dental implants should last you for many years. Following surgery, you may have swelling, bleeding, or pain, but after that enjoying and caring for your implants should be your top priority. Here are a few takeaways from post-dental implant surgery. 

When you eat, stick to soft foods. Hard or crunchy foods may not feel comfortable on your gums and could potentially cause damage to a new implant. 

Care for your dental implant just as you care for your natural teeth. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups from your dentist. Keeping bacteria away from the gumline as much as possible reduces the risk of gum disease and losing your dental implant. 

Keep hard objects away from your mouth. These objects may break or damage your implant and will need replacing. 

If you're a smoker this is the perfect time to quit. Tobacco products only bring dental decay leading to other gum diseases and even cancers.

Getting A Dental Implant With A Dentist in Rockaway Beach NY

The dental implant procedure may seem long, but in the end, it's worth it to have a crown that supports your facial structure and maintains the health of your jaw. By knowing what to expect, you can feel confident and calm when the time comes to have the surgery. 

Are you ready to schedule your dental implant procedure with a dentist in Rockaway Beach NY? Contact us today to get your appointment scheduled.