When you make an appointment with your local dentists for treatment, you can revel in the knowledge that they will answer any questions you might have. Whether you’re nervous about having a tooth pulled, or your kid fear dentist visit or want to know which type of toothbrush to use, your dentist is the best person to ask.
However, sometimes it helps to learn a little bit about a procedure before you see your dentist. You can then understand the basics of it and think of other questions to ask your oral health care professional when you see them next.
At some stage, your dentist may have recommended a dental implant procedure to you. Without asking any questions, it’s not that easy to work out what’s involved. Whether you’re ready to book your dental implant procedure, or you want to find out more about it before you do, then read on.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are posts that are inserted into your jawbone where a tooth used to be. They form the foundation for an artificial tooth to be placed on the top. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent. They look and function like your natural teeth, with dentists going above and beyond to ensure that all details, even the colouring, match your current teeth.
What’s Involved at Each Dentist Visit?
When you get a filling, it often only takes one appointment, and the job is done. Dental implants can take a little longer, but they are well worth it. The initial visit is a consultation for your dentist to examine your teeth, carry out x-rays, and form a plan for how they will carry out the procedure.
The next appointment involves inserting the dental implant, while the third consists of the restoration process. Some additional appointments may also be necessary for checkups and making sure the healing process is happening as it should.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
If there’s one thing that’s quite important to know before your dental implant procedure, it’s what the benefits are. After all, why would you see dentists if the visit wasn’t to benefit you? Dental implants improve your chewing function, can stop the deterioration of bone from missing teeth, and can even lead to a lower risk of cavities in your neighbouring teeth.
What’s more, they can significantly improve your self-confidence. Why smile with gaps in your mouth when you can have that full set of natural-looking pearly whites?
Is There More Than One Type of Dental Implant?
Dentists have a lot of products, services, and tools at their disposal, and they always choose the best ones to suit your unique situation. When it comes to dental implants, they can decide if endosteal or subperiosteal implants are the best option for you.
Endosteal implants are the more common option. Dentists insert them into your jaw bone for an artificial tooth to be added to the top of it. A subperiosteal implant, on the other hand, sits on top of the jawbone. This type of implant is better suited for people who lack great jawbone height.
You’re ready for dental implants. You now know the basics, so it’s time to make an appointment with your dentist, talk to them about your needs, and find out of dental implants or another type of procedure is right for you.
