How Did Dental Implants Work?

What Are Dental Implants?

Teeth implants are made either from titanium or other materials compatible with the human body. This helps to provide a strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth. These restorations come in different types, including endosteal and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are placed into the jawbone, while subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum tissue but on top of the bone. Your implant dentist in Ocoee will choose the ideal implant depending on your individual needs and situation.

Are You A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Whether you’re a candidate for dental implants depends on the type of procedure you’re getting. Full mouth implants, for example, need more than one implant. All-on-4 requires four implants–two in the upper and lower jaw. This procedure is generally for people who are missing many teeth. Your dentist will also examine your jaw density to determine if you have enough support before recommending a dental implant in Ocoee.

What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Entail?

After your initial consultation, the dentist will fix the implant in place and clean and stitch the area to promote healing. The initial healing period is a few weeks. Your implant will then need to “osseointegrate” with your jawbone. Depending on your unique case, this can take anywhere from six weeks to several months. During this time, you may need to visit your dentist several times.

You may be given temporary teeth to allow your gums time to mature around the implant post. This can also help with aesthetics. During the healing process, you will visit the dentist to take images and impressions of your mouth so your dental lab partner can create your new restoration. Next, your doctor will attach the permanent tooth attachment called an abutment to the implant. You will likely have to fold back the gum tissue to make room for the healing collar.

What Can You Expect After the Implants are Fixed?

After dental implants are placed, you may experience minor swelling and bruise around the mouth and cheeks. Your jaw muscles may also feel stiff or numb. The doctor may prescribe oral medications to reduce swelling and decrease the risk of infection. Generally, patients will feel better a day after dental implant placement. However, some minor pain or discomfort may persist for a few days. After 24 hours, oral medications will no longer be effective.

Aftercare Instructions

You should avoid tough food for a few days to help the implant take root and the surrounding gums heal properly. To further reduce the pain associated with dental implants, avoid smoking for a week or so after the procedure because it can interfere with the healing process and cause further problems. The implant can last a lifetime if you follow the doctor’s instructions.

The pain associated with dental implants is usually mild, lasting approximately two weeks. However, if it persists, you should contact a dentist near you for further evaluation. The symptoms of pain after dental implants include the need for additional pain medications and the possibility of peri-implant disease.

The implant placement procedure is not painful in itself, but you need to follow the proper care guidelines for the implant to prevent pain. Also, avoid strenuous activity, including driving and working.

What Are The Risks of Dental Implants?

The most common complication is an infection, which can occur at the site of the implant or in the surrounding tissue. It can lead to pain, swelling, and damage to the surrounding teeth.

Other risks associated with dental implants include nerve damage, which can cause numbness or tingle in the lips, gums, or chin, and damage to the surrounding teeth. While dental implants are generally safe, it’s important to talk to your dentist in 34761 about the risks before having the procedure.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants

Dental implants are usually considered a cosmetic procedure, which means they are not typically covered by dental insurance. If you are considering dental implants, check with your insurance provider to see if they are covered, or contact a dental office in Ocoee for assistance.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Smiles of Ocoee for more information about dental implants and what you can expect.