Dental Implants: A Step By Step Guide For Nervous Patient
According to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey, over half of U.S. adults over the age of 50 agree that a smile is the main feature that remains the most attractive as people age. When someone has a poor smile or missing teeth, they can experience social anxiety or lowered self-esteem. Fortunately, today’s dentists have the ability to help those who are not happy with their smile. One of the most common ways a smile can be improved is by replacing missing or damaged teeth with dental implants. This article is going to provide an overview of the dental implant process.
The Initial Evaluation
To start the implant process, a family dentist will evaluate the patient’s current dental situation. This initial evaluation will allow them to determine if the patient is a good candidate for dental implants. During this consultation, the dentist will provide a detailed outline of the steps involved. Bring a pad and pen with any questions and write down key points during your time with your dentist. Take advantage of all the dental implant procedure videos on our website www.watkindental.com as well as the many articles on our Blog.
Preparing For Your Dental Implant
When the decision to get dental implants is made, the next step is removing the current tooth. In the event the patient has a damaged or diseased tooth, this tooth must be extracted before the new tooth can be put in. After the extraction, the area must be given proper time to heal. The extent of the extraction will depend on the individual situation, but generally, it’s a fairly simple procedure. The health of your jaw bone and gums surrounding the implant site is important for the success of your implant. After the extraction site has healed, it’s time to insert the implant. An incision is made to expose the jawbone. Then, the implant is screwed into the jaw bone and the gums are stitched together over the implant. Again, there is a healing process after this surgical procedure.
Your Dental Implant Is Ready To Be Restored!
Once the surgical area is healed, it’s time to take impressions so a crown can be attached to the implant. This crown will serve as the patient’s new tooth. This part of the process is less invasive than the initial surgery. Some dentists place the crown at the same time as the implant, typically a temporary crown, but it’s up to your dentist to determine what the best option is for the individual patient. Next, the shade of the tooth or teeth is chosen and the permanent crown or crowns are placed on top of your dental implant. The number of teeth that are being replaced will place a deciding factor on how long the process will take. While the process may seem long, it has a huge payoff. Dental implants can relieve discomfort from damaged or diseased teeth and provide a boost in confidence. If you’re missing teeth or are experiencing discomfort from damaged teeth, talk to your dentist to see if you’d be a good candidate for dental implants. Or you can call Watkin Dental Associates for a confidential consultation at 978-345-6919. Our team of dental specialists is dedicated to providing your best dental care.