If you’ve been living without your teeth for any period of time, then your life has changed quite a bit. Now, every meal requires more planning, there is a reluctance to smile for photos, and your confidence has been impacted. Thankfully, with dental implants in Roswell, you now have a way to regain the functionality and appearance you’ve been missing. Before committing to the procedure, though, you’d like to know what you should expect. Read on to find out!
What is a Dental Implant?
The key to the effectiveness of the dental implant process is the surgical placement of a titanium rod that mimics the missing root in both size and function. Unlike any other form of replacement, the dental implant offers a level of support that can only be matched by the tooth’s original root structure. The placement is typically divided into four phases.
Phase 1 – Consultation and Examination
The dental implant method of tooth replacement has a 98% success rate. One of the reasons for this level of excellence is the tedious approach that is taken to determine the patient’s eligibility.
Here are some of the factors considered:
- The patient’s overall health – To determine what type of anesthesia will be safe to use
- The patient’s oral health – To identify any conditions that need to be treated before the dental implant procedure gets underway
- A bone density test – To ensure there is enough healthy bone to support a dental implant
The initial appointment is also the time that the dentist will provide an accurate price and answer any other questions about the different aspects of the procedure.
Phase 2 – The Implant Placement
The process starts with the appropriate anesthesia and sedative (if needed) being administered. Then, an incision is made into the gums so the dental implant can be attached to the jawbone. After this stage is complete, the patient will be allowed time to heal.
Phase 3 – The Abutment Placement
After sufficient healing has occurred, an abutment is added. Usually made from titanium as well, the fixture is screwed into the implant and acts as a connector that allows the final restoration to be added later.
Phase 4 – A Restored Smile
A final perk of having a dental implant placed is that you’re left with several options for a final restoration. A crown is used for a single tooth while a bridge can replace three or more consecutive teeth. If a single arch or an entire set of teeth is missing, there is the implant-retained denture alternative.
It’s important to not hesitate to visit a dentist and learn more about replacing missing teeth in Roswell because the longer you wait, the more bone mass you risk losing. So to get on the path to finally regaining the life you deserve, schedule a consultation today.
About the Author
Dr. Caitlin Mercke earned her dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. A life-long learner, she strives to expand her knowledge and further hone her skillset through taking advanced continuing education courses. Dr. Mercke places dental implants at Elite Dentistry, and she can be reached for more information through her website.
