A Guide to Oral Implants: What You Can Expect
Concerning cosmetic and restorative dentistry, more and more people are choosing longer-term options such as dental implants Bondi Junction to replace teeth that have been lost to illness or decay. One of the main advantages of oral implants is that patients are not required to adhere to any specific or complicated aftercare to ensure the longevity of the implants.
But if you are looking to restore missing teeth and have heard of oral implants, you probably wish to know more about them. In this article, you will be introduced to oral implants and what you can expect to happen when you approach a cosmetic dentist about having them fitted.
Oral implants: what are they?
Oral implants are not the false teeth that are associated with the procedure. The implants themselves are out of sight, placed in the jaw of the patient, holding the false teeth in place.
Traditionally, they are made from titanium and the most commonly used implant is known as the endosteal implant. But based on your clinical needs, your dentist may be able to offer you a subperiosteal implant, a zygomatic implant or even a mini implant, which are designed for patients who have less jawbone.
The initial consultation
At your initial consultation for oral implants, you can expect your cosmetic dentist to take an X-ray of your jaw to determine the type of implant most suitable for you.
They will also enquire about your general health and will conduct an assessment of any teeth you have in your mouth and the condition of your gums. This is primarily to assess for the signs of gum disease which can be detrimental to oral implants.
If it is determined that you are a suitable candidate for oral implants, you will be booked in for a fitting; this is the perfect opportunity to ask your dentist any questions you may have.
Fitting
If you have lost the tooth that is being replaced years or decades ago, your dental team will need to make an incision into your gum line and drill a hole to fit the implant. But if you have lost your tooth recently, they may be able to use the vacant socket to secure the implant in place.
Don’t worry! Your mouth will be numbed and the procedure will be comfortable, but it may take up to 2 hours for each implant to be fitted. So, if you are having multiple implants fitted, your dentist may spread out the appointments.
Aftercare
Once you are at home it is important not to apply pressure to the newly fitted implants, as this can cause them to set or fuse at an odd angle. You will also need to keep an eye out for signs of infection which include abnormal swelling, discomfort, the presence of pus and fever.
If you experience any of these symptoms seek urgent medical care.
Prosthetics
Once the implants are fused (which will be determined with an X-ray), your dentist will fit the prosthetic teeth. This stage of the treatment takes up to an hour and allows you to leave your dental surgery with a brand new smile.
DISCLAIMER OFFSITE
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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