A missing tooth can damage your self-esteem and cause emotional effects. Thankfully, a dental implant from your dentist in Los Gatos, CA, can restore your beautiful smile. But not all people can get implants. When you consult with your dentist, here are questions you need to ask about dental implants:
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are designed to bond to your jawbone. The procedure involves placing a titanium post, which serves as the root of your artificial tooth, into the bone. The post can withstand the chewing and biting they will be subjected to throughout the day. Once the post has fused with the bone, your dentist will place a dental crown on top of your implant root.
If your dentist determines that a tooth extraction is not necessary, the implant procedure can take around four months. Otherwise, it could take around eight months to complete the procedure. This lets the implant heal and fuse with your jawbone. But the treatment itself task just five minutes to finish.
What Benefits Can I Get from the Implants?
Dental implants do not slip or fall out because they are permanently placed in your mouth. When you get implants, you don’t have to adhere to dietary restrictions, unlike dentures. Also, dental implants are easy to clean and maintain. You just handle them like your natural teeth. A dental procedure stimulates the jawbone and gums, helping avoid gum recession and other problems.
What is the Expected Recovery Time?
It could take seven days to fully recover from implant surgery. You can eat on the same day as the procedure. But you may need to avoid crunchy or seedy foods during this time. The majority of those who get these implants experience just minimal discomfort during their recovery. Should you feel any pain, you can always take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Most people can get dental implants. Those who have good oral health can undergo a dental procedure. Also, you need to have healthy gums and a sufficient jawbone to get this procedure done. If you have an inadequate jawbone, your dentist will recommend undergoing a bone grafting procedure.
Your dentist will assess your mouth before they recommend a dental implant to you. People with cancer, diabetes, and uncontrolled gum disease are not good candidates for implants. Also, smoking and alcohol consumption are factors because they can impact the gum healing process. Sometimes, people who take certain medications may not also be good candidates for implants.