Anyone who suffers from tooth loss looks toward a permanent solution to replace their missing teeth. Dental implants offer the recipients a way to regain the functionality and use of their lost teeth without compromising on its aesthetic appeal. Since dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, patients often have concerns about how safe dental implants are for general health.
As with any other surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the dental implant procedure as well. However, as long as the treatment is done by a qualified dentist with the required expertise to carry out the procedure, patients need not worry about the surgical risks associated with it. Moreover, the success of a dental implant procedure is directly associated with the patient’s compliance to follow the dentist’s post-operative instructions.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
The dental implant procedure consists of three stages. In the first stage, the patient undergoes an initial evaluation to determine whether they are suitable candidates for dental implant treatment. The dentist will perform an oral and general health check-up and may advise diagnostic tests like X-rays and CT scans.
Once the patient has been determined to be a suitable candidate, the surgical placement of the dental implant can be carried out. The surgery is an outpatient procedure and is done under local anesthesia. The patient can return home on the same day, following which, a waiting period of 3-6 months is followed to allow for osseointegration. Osseointegration is the process by which the dental implant integrates into the surrounding jawbone and achieves stability. Osseointegration serves as the primary component contributing to the success of the dental implant.
After the dental implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone, the dentist can place the dental crown onto the implant, which takes the place of the missing tooth in the mouth. When done correctly, a dental implant can last for a lifetime and allows the patient to eat, talk, and function exactly as they would with their natural teeth.
What Makes Dental Implants Safe?
- Dental implants are most commonly made from titanium – a biocompatible metal that is durable and long-lasting. Newer implants are being made out of ceramics as well. Still, titanium implants continue to remain the top choice among patients and dentists alike.
- With a success rate of over 95%, dental implants are one of the most significant long-term investments one can opt for in terms of their oral health. With proper care, dental implants do not require replacements or any maintenance.
- Dental implants are the only type of restoration that prevents deterioration of the jawbone, which is a natural phenomenon occurring after tooth loss.
- Since dental implants remain fixed in the mouth, patients are free to talk, laugh, and can normally eat without the fear of their restoration slipping or falling out of their mouths.
Every patient who is recommended dental implants presents a unique case. While the procedure is safely done at the hands of an experienced dentist, the long-lasting benefits of dental implants can best be enjoyed when patients are willing to go the extra mile to take good care of their oral health and dental hygiene. Visit RiverRock Dental to know more about the dental implant procedure and whether you are a suitable candidate for the same.
