The number of dental implant procedures in the US increased by over 6% within the span of a year. Between 2020 and 2026, the total number of implants could increase by 23%. More people are using dental implants to improve the appearance of their smiles.
Not sure what to expect from your dental implants procedure? Read on to learn everything you need to know before visiting your dentist office in Georgetown, KY.
After reading this guide, you can feel more prepared before your own implant appointment. Prepare for your procedure with this comprehensive guide today.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before we discuss what to expect from your Georgetown dental implants procedure, it helps to cover the basics. What exactly are dental implants?
Dental implants, which look like small screws, are artificial tooth roots. They’re designed to replace one or multiple missing teeth to complete your smile. The implant, or abutment, is surgically placed into your jaw.
Once the implant area has time to heal, your Georgetown dentist will then place a dental crown atop it. The crown will function like your natural teeth, allowing you to speak, chew, and smile without any issues.
Without a dental implant, however, your jawbone will lack the stimulation it needs. The area could deteriorate over time as a result. You could notice facial sagging, wrinkles, and oral health issues if you don’t replace the lost tooth.
Before scheduling your dental implant procedure, visit your dentist office in Georgetown, KY. Your dentist can help you compare implants vs dentures to determine which option suits your needs. If your jaw isn’t stable enough to hold the implant, for example, they might recommend dentures instead.
The Benefits
Why should you consider requesting dental implants in Georgetown, KY?
For starters, over half of the adults in America feel insecure about their teeth. Over 60% want to change something about their smiles. If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, you might feel insecure enough to hide your smile.
Your missing tooth could impact your self-confidence or comfort in social settings.
You can replace your missing tooth with a dental implant to restore your smile. Improving your appearance with an implant can boost your self-confidence, which might encourage you to take more risks in life.
A missing tooth, on the other hand, can impact your ability to speak and chew. For example, you might form a lisp. Failing to chew foods thoroughly could cause digestive problems as well.
Your dentist can replace a missing, broken, or decayed tooth with an implant. Schedule an appointment at your dentist office in Georgetown to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for treatment.
The Procedure
Now that we’ve covered the basics surrounding dental implants, let’s talk about the dental implants procedure. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. Make sure to schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist to get started.
Before
Before your dental implant procedure, your Georgetown dentist will need to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for treatment. They’ll perform a comprehensive exam, which can include dental X-rays. During the exam, they’ll assess the health of your jawbone to make sure it’s stable.
Remember, your dentist will need to make sure your jawbone is stable enough to hold the abutment.
Your consultation appointment is also a good time to talk to your Georgetown dentist about the procedure. Let them know if you have any questions or concerns.
Before the actual procedure, find someone who can drive you home following the surgery. Your dentist might keep you under using IV sedation during the actual procedure.
If your dentist plans on using IV sedation, avoid eating anything the night before.
During
Before the actual procedure, your dentist will need to numb your mouth. They might recommend IV sedation or local anesthesia. Make sure to let your dentist know if you have any allergies beforehand.
If you have a decayed or damaged tooth, your dentist will first need to remove the partial or damaged fragments. Next, they’ll make a small incision into your gum line.
Your dentist will then place the dental implant and close your gums.
Over the next few months, the surgical site will need time to heal. This process, known as osseointegration, can take about six months. You can talk to your dentist for a more accurate timeline.
Osseointegration ensures the implant is stable enough to hold the implant.
You’ll need to schedule a follow-up appointment to have the crown placed atop the implant. The crown will be custom-made to match the appearance of your natural teeth.
Finally, your dentist will place the crown on the abutment, restoring your beautiful smile!
After
Don’t forget to talk to your Georgetown dentist about your aftercare plan following the procedure.
First, it’s important to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant during the week following the surgery. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, oatmeal, soups, or smoothies.
Let your body rest to allow it to heal as well.
During this period, keep an eye out for signs of bleeding, bruising, and swelling. Let your dentist know if you experience any complications right away.
You can also ask your dentist about over-the-counter medications you can take to ease these post-surgical side effects.
Make sure to brush and floss twice a day to maintain proper oral hygiene.
It’s normal to feel some pain and discomfort in the hours and days following the procedure. Let your dentist know if your symptoms persist after a few days.
Otherwise, make sure to schedule your follow-up appointment. Your dentist can assess the surgical site to ensure it’s healing properly.
Complete Smiles: Ask Your Georgetown, KY Dentist About Dental Implants
Don’t let a missing or decayed tooth affect your smile or oral health. Instead, talk to your Georgetown, KY dentist about dental implants. You can schedule your dental implant procedure to restore your smile in no time!
Experience the benefits of dental implants by requesting your consultation appointment today.
Ready to restore your smile? We’re here to help.
Schedule your appointment at Georgetown’s premier family dentist and implant specialist office today!
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