Why Should You Not Ignore Missing Teeth and Do Dental Implants?

Tooth loss due to decay, dental trauma, or gum disease is quite common. However, it is necessary to have a dentist near you replace the missing tooth or teeth. This is because tooth loss leads to misalignment and bite imbalance when other teeth shift into the gap.

It also results in jawbone re-absorption, which causes facial muscles to sink. This causes the person to look older. Missing teeth should be replaced as they interfere with the chewing function. They also make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene. Replacing teeth with dental implants in Sunset Hills, MO, will improve your life.

What Are Dental Implants?

They are a comfortable, natural-looking, long-lasting solution for restoring missing teeth. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made from titanium. They also consist of individually customized artificial teeth attached to the titanium posts. These dental restorations mimic the entire natural tooth structure.

The dentist in 63127 recommends dental implants because they keep the jawbone healthy and look natural. The expert also prefers them because they can restore a single tooth or multiple teeth. This is because the implants can support a crown, bridgework, or dentures.

What Is the Process of Dental Implants?

Getting dental implants requires multiple appointments with the implant dentist near you. Most patients require three appointments when getting implants. These are for consultation, placing the implant, and attaching the artificial teeth. However, more visits are necessary if the need a dental extraction or bone grafting. Generally, the process has the following steps:

1. Consultation

It is the first step of the dental implant process. Here, the dentist performs a comprehensive examination. This involves taking x-rays and reviewing dental and overall health. The dentist will then discuss the options available and develop a treatment plan.

Next, this dental expert will schedule the implant surgery appointment. If you need a dental extraction or bone grafting, they may be performed earlier or on the same day as implant placement. Your dentist will decide which time is best based on individual dental health.

2. Preparation

You will then prepare for the surgery as per the dentist’s instructions. For example, if you need IV sedation for the procedure, you should not eat a few hours before surgery. You should also arrange for transportation back home and a few hours of home care.

In addition, the dentist in 63127 may prescribe antibiotics for you to take a few days before surgery. They prevent infection, which results in early implant failures. The expert may also ask you to make lifestyle changes like not smoking and taking alcohol. This will ensure that you recover fast and without complications.

3. Implant placement

The next stage varies depending on whether you get same-day or conventional implants. Same-day implants involve fixing the implants and attaching temporary teeth in one appointment. You leave with a full smile but will visit the dentist a few months later for permanent false teeth. Find out from your dentist if you can have these implants.

The convectional implant procedure takes place over several months apart with several appointments. It begins with administering a sedative and anesthesia. These ensure that you do not feel pain or discomfort. Next, the dentist will make an incision into the gum below the missing tooth’s socket and place the post.

They will then close the gums to allow the post to fuse with the jawbone and to support crowns or dentures. It takes about six months for the post to combine with the gum. You will be given instructions to facilitate faster healing and eliminate complications.

Once the dentist ensures the implant is secure, they will fix a connecting device onto the implant named an abutment. Next, they will give your gums time to heal and grow over the abutment. They will then create customized teeth replacements. The final step of dental implants in Sunset Hills, MO, is attaching the crown or dentures to the abutment.

Do you want to replace your missing tooth or teeth using dental implants? Then contact our dental implant experts at My STL Dentist. We offer single-tooth dental implants, full-arch dental implants, and implant-supported dentures. Schedule an initial consultation to determine what type of implants you need. Start the journey to a permanent perfect smile with us.