What to Expect Before and After the Dental Implant Procedure

What to Expect Before and After the Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots with an artificial tooth attached. They are one of the best advancements in dentistry in the past few decades. They are a permanent solution for patients with multiple missing teeth. They restore your smile to an almost original condition. Because the implants are permanent, they feel, look, and function like your natural teeth. 

Dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options. However, the expense is only in the initial cost. Dental implants make more financial and aesthetic sense eventually than other options. They are also a good option when you have tooth root structures to support dentures or bridge work. They can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. 
 

What to Expect Before the Dental Implant Procedure
 

Preparation

The preparation part of the procedure will often require several specialists to work together. You will need an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who will look at the condition of your mouth, jaw, and face. You will need to see a periodontist who will look at your tooth-supporting structures, such as the bones and gums. 

You will also need to see a prosthodontist, who will look at your teeth so they can fashion one or several like your natural teeth. Sometimes, you may need to see an ENT—ear, nose, and throat specialist. Before the procedure, you will need to go through a thorough evaluation to confirm you are a qualified candidate.
 

Evaluation

The evaluation process will involve the following:

• Comprehensive Dental Exam

You must have a comprehensive dental exam to help your dentists and specialists have a clear picture of your oral and bone health. You may need to have 3D images of your mouth and X-rays. They will need to make impressions of your teeth and jaw to make models of it. 

• Medical History Review

Before the doctors proceed with the procedure, they will need a complete medical history. They will need to know about any medications you have been taking. They will need to know if you have had or have any specific medical conditions.

They will want to know if you have any heart issues or orthopedic implants. Depending on your history, the doctor in charge may prescribe pre-surgery antibiotics to lower the infection risk.

• Treatment Plan

The doctors will create a unique treatment plan at the end of the evaluation. They will consider several factors, such as the number of teeth missing, overall health, and jawbone health.
 

What to Expect After the Dental Implant Procedure

It would be best if you always had someone to take you home after the procedure because you may be a little groggy due to the anesthesia. The procedure may take one session or multiple sessions over a few months. You will need several months, especially if you will need bone grafting. 

When the procedures are done, you may experience some of the following side effects:

• Bruising on your gums and skin.
• Swelling in your face and gums.
• Minor bleeding at the site of the procedure.
• Pain in your gums at the site.

Most of these side effects will subside after a few weeks or days, and you can enjoy your new smile. But if they persist, ensure you let your dentist know.

For more on what to expect before and after a dental implant procedure, visit Elite Dentistry & Implant Center at our office in Chelsea, Alabama. Call 205-224-0040​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.