What Are Dental Implants?

Artificial teeth are an alternative that function and look incredibly similar to natural teeth. This technology has been highly refined, and it’s become difficult–often impossible–to tell who has implants in place of real teeth. The dental implant procedure allows us to use metal posts as a replacement for teeth roots, making this surgery a great option for people who may not be candidates for more traditional dentures. It’s also important for candidates to have good density in the jaw, or be willing and able to undergo a bone graft procedure. The implants will become fused with the bone in your jaw, providing incredible stability for your new teeth. The implant process may take several sessions and require a good amount of healing time between procedures. However, once completed, this procedure offers a durable and effective solution for missing or damaged teeth.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?     

Dental implants are not the right option for everyone. This process takes time and patience, so ideal candidates are people who are committed to spending time on the process. Ideal candidates are those who have missing natural teeth, as well as those who don’t have certain underlying conditions that could complicate the process. We’ll go over your medical history with you during your consultation to make sure that this isn’t the case. Ideal candidates might also be people who have struggled or who don’t want to use traditional dentures. Finally, ideal candidates are willing to collaborate with us and be open about expectations and concerns.

What to Expect During a Dental Implants Procedure

Before the day of the procedure, we’ll go over the process with you at length, including risks and preparation, so you can be informed and confident going into surgery. You’ll need to have a dental exam beforehand so we can determine how many teeth need to be replaced. This also allows us to make models of the targeted areas. You might be asked to briefly stop taking or adjust certain medications, including blood thinners, which can complicate the procedure and healing process. Make sure to have someone ready to drive you home after your surgery. 

Depending on your anatomy and bone density, as well as how many teeth need to be replaced, the procedure will vary greatly. Many patients need bone graft procedures before undergoing the procedure for dental implants. Once the bone is strong enough, the first implant procedure can take place. The implant process typically requires more than one procedure. You’ll be given anesthesia so you won’t feel any discomfort. An incision will be made along the gum, and we’ll carefully drill into the bone, allowing us to place the implant. After this initial procedure, you’ll need to let the bone fuse with the implant for a period of time. Artificial teeth will be secured after the healing period after the implant procedure, giving you a durable and incredibly realistic smile.

Sedation

Dr. Eidson offers a wide variety of sedation techniques including local anesthesia (numbing injections), laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and IV sedation.  Most patients are candidates for sedation.  At your consultation appointment, we will review your medical history and medications to discuss the safest and most comfortable option for your specific needs.

Dental Implants Aftercare

It’s important to give yourself time to rest after this procedure. We’ll go over a thorough care plan with you, including how and when to replace dressing, as well as how to clean the area. Swelling, pain, and bruising are not uncommon for a period of time after the procedure. You might be given antibiotics to make sure infection doesn’t occur. If you find that you’re struggling with managing your pain at home, contact us so we can discuss other medications. Be prepared to eat softer food for a while after the procedure so you can let the area heal. It’s also important to refrain from smoking during recovery to make sure that everything heals properly.

Schedule a Consultation    

Dental implants are an exciting product of medical advancements, and we’re proud to offer our patients this incredible option at TruForm Surgery. The implant process takes dedication. With us, you can be sure that you’re in safe hands. We’ll be with you every step of the way. To learn more about dental implants, contact us today at our office in Brighton, MI.