How to Prepare for Dental Implants

Are you considering getting dental implants to restore your smile? You may feel unsure about this decision or feel some anxiety. It is understandable. The process of getting implants takes time and can involve some discomfort and a long recovery. To ease your worries, it is helpful to understand the benefits of this treatment and how implants can help your health and appearance. Your general dentist can also answer any questions you have.

Dental implants: the purpose and the process

Dental implants are an alternative to other tooth-replacement treatments such as a bridge or dentures. Implants are durable and can last more than 20 years. They consist of three parts: a titanium post, a smaller piece called an abutment, and a natural-looking crown. Implants restore the person’s ability to chew and can also prevent other teeth from drifting and becoming loose.

Before getting implants, the patient gets X-rays and impressions at the dentist’s office. The dentist will then insert the posts deep into the patient’s jaw. To do this, the dentist numbs the person and makes an incision in the gums. The post fuses with the bone, and the patient heals. A few months later, the dentist opens up the gums again and attaches an abutment to the post. The dentist then secures the crown to the abutment in another few months.

Do some research and compare to other treatments

Patients should do their due diligence before getting dental implants and learn as much about them as possible. It is helpful to look at other methods of replacing teeth too. Individuals can look at the advantages and drawbacks of implants in relation to other treatments. People should consider the cost, longevity, and cosmetic appeal of implants.

Visit with the dentist

A patient should always first consult the dentist before moving forward with getting dental implants. During this meeting, the dentist will explain how the process works. The patient can learn what to expect before, during, and after each step of the procedure. The dentist may share success stories with the patient and show before-and-after pictures of other people who have gotten implants.

Have a dental examination

Dental implants make sense for people who are missing one tooth or a few teeth. However, patients can also have a mouthful of implants. The dentist will want to start by examining the person for a few reasons. First, there may be other teeth that require extraction. This would be the case if a tooth had severe decay or suffered irreparable damage. The dentist will also want to ensure that the patient has strong bone growth.

Feel good about your upcoming procedure

Deciding to get dental implants is a big step for your health and your looks. If you are worried about this treatment, you can follow these tips to feel more comfortable. The more you know about implants, the more at ease you can be as the day of your first surgery approaches. Make an appointment today to speak with your dentist about whether this option makes sense.

Request an appointment here: https://www.roderickgarciadmd.com or call Roderick A. Garcia, DMD PC at (505) 634-5029 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.

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