If you're thinking about getting dental implants, but you're a little squeamish at the idea of having surgery, talk to your dentist about the procedure and what you can expect. You might also want to talk to someone who has had an implant to get their view of the experience. You'll probably find this information puts your mind at ease that the procedure isn't painful or hard to go through. Here's a quick overview of the dental implant procedure.
Local Anesthesia Is Provided
The gap where the implant will be placed is numbed with a local anesthetic and the dentist waits until you are fully numb before proceeding. The dental implant procedure involves making an incision in your gum to reach the bone underneath. You won't feel the incision being made, and afterward, the recovery should be similar to any other type of dental work you've had done. You might have discomfort, but you shouldn't have a lot of pain.
Once the gum has been opened up, the dentist screws the titanium implant into the bone. This procedure isn't painful, but you'll probably feel a lot of pressure when the implant is inserted.
You May Have IV Sedation
Although the dental implant procedure sounds painful, it isn't bad at all since the area is numb. However, if you still have anxiety over the idea of getting an incision or implant in your bone, let your dentist know. Your dentist might combine your anesthetic with oral or IV sedation so you're relaxed during the procedure. You won't be put to sleep, so you'll know what's going on, but the time will go by faster and you'll not have to struggle with anxiety during the dental implant procedure.
You May Get Stitches
Once the implant is in, the dentist might stitch your gums together over the top of the implant. This helps keep the surgical site free from infection so your bone and gums heal properly. The stitches usually dissolve in several days, and they shouldn't be painful. If the stitches bother you after you've been healing for a few days, let your dentist know. The dentist might remove them early so your recovery period is more enjoyable.
However, the stitches won't hurt and it isn't painful to have them removed if the dentist needs to remove them manually.
Your dentist provides you with recovery instructions to follow at home. This might include taking over-the-counter pain relievers if you need them. You'll also be instructed on when you can smoke, eat, and brush your teeth so you don't have to wonder what to do while your implant surgery heals.
For more information on a dental implant procedure, contact a professional near you.
Share6 January 2023
If you are someone who hesitates to open your mouth when you smile because you are embarrassed about your teeth, you should know that there are a number of cosmetic techniques that can give you a beautiful smile you will be proud to show to the world. As a cosmetic dentist, I have seen many clients transform their lives simply by fixing their smiles. This blog is meant to encourage people to find out about the possibilities in cosmetic dentistry so they can feel good about their smiles. A beautiful, confident smile really can change your life. I would love to show you how.
