Dental implants are a great option for anyone missing a tooth. You might lose a tooth because of decay that caused the tooth to break into shards or because you were in an accident that knocked out your tooth. Once you choose the right dentist, you need to go through an exam to ensure an implant is right for you. During your other appointments, the dentist will make a mold of your mouth and send it to the lab that makes your implant. While the process can take some time, there are some easy ways you can survive each step in the process.
Steps in the Implant Process
The dental implant process begins with a review of your medical history, followed by the design of your treatment plan. Your treatment plan covers both the implant and any other help that you might need. It should also include the type of sedation you choose. You have the option of asking the dentist to put you to sleep for the entire procedure or simply using a numbing agent that allows you to stay awake without feeling any pain.
Implant Surgery
Whether you choose standard or done-in-one implants, you will go through the same type of surgery. Your dentist will remove the pieces of your old tooth that are still in your mouth, which may involve cutting into your gums. They will then graft to your jawbone if required and place the dental implant. Getting a dental implant also requires that you get a fake tooth or crown added to the top of the implant. While the implant is similar to a screw that sits inside your mouth, the crown or fake tooth will look just like all of the other teeth you have.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Are you one of the many people who are scared of dentists? Getting ready for your implant surgery can leave you feeling worried about what might happen. Some dentists will prescribe a medication to help you cope with your anxiety. You should get a good night’s sleep before your appointment and take time to relax before your surgery. Many patients find it helpful to listen to music or watch one of their favorite shows. You can bring a tablet with you and use earbuds to watch videos or listen to your favorite songs before your surgery.
Take Time Off
No matter what type of dental implant you get, you should plan on taking at least two days off. This includes time off work and any of the tasks that you usually do around the house. You’ll likely feel tired when you get home and may experience pain for the first few days. It’s helpful to stock up on soft foods that you can easily eat, like pudding and soup. Keep in mind that hot and cold foods may be too rough for your mouth as it heals. Your dentist will send you home with a list of things you can and cannot do, such as drinking through a straw and smoking.
Caring for Your Implant
Surviving the dental implant process also involves learning how to properly care for it. You should use floss every day to remove lodged food from around the implant and brush with a soft nylon brush that won’t irritate your gums. Try to avoid foods that are hard or sticky because they can break your crown. Those foods include dried fruits and potato chips along with caramel and carrots. Schedule your follow-up appointment before you leave, and make sure you go to it. This allows the dentist to make sure your implant is in good shape and that your mouth heals the way it should.
Dental implants are one of the best ways to take care of seriously damaged or missing teeth. The implant itself is a post that the dentist inserts into your mouth, but it will also include a crown that serves as a fake tooth. Once the implant heals, you should not have any problems eating your favorite foods. You’ll love showing off your great smile when you opt for an implant, and use these tips to survive each step in the procedure.
AUTHOR NAME : ALISON LURIE