Dental implants are a great solution for people looking to replace one or more missing teeth. In addition, it’s a long-lasting solution that restores your confident smile naturally and reinforces your oral health. The good thing about implants is that they will not affect your existing teeth. However, choosing the dentist who’ll perform your dental implant procedure is essential, as it will determine the treatment’s success.
As we proceed, we’ll discuss the several things you should know before choosing your implant dentist.
What You Need to Know Before Getting Dental Implants
Dental implants grant cosmetic and functional advantages. In addition, it’s the only long-term teeth restoration procedure available and can last a lifetime with good dental care. So if you’re already sold out with this treatment, we advise you to read the five pointers we’ve gathered below to help you prepare.
1. How long does the healing process take?
The recovery process following a dental implant procedure typically takes five to eight months. This will primarily depend on whether you’ll follow the dentist’s directions. Additionally, you’ll need to keep eating soft foods if you want to recuperate swiftly. Avoid smoking while you’re in the recovery process, as this may affect your implant.
The same applies when you’ve had your dental crowns. Dental experts suggest refraining from smoking for one to two days after the surgery for faster healing. You may visit their website if you have inquiries about dental postoperative care. Smoking can also permanently stain veneers, crowns, bridges, and implants. So if you want your dental restorations to last longer, observe moderation or stop smoking.
2. Know how much it costs
Dental implant surgeries can be costly based on the type of implant you’re getting and your location. While dental insurance may cover a part of the expenses, it’s always better to save money and plan ahead. However, some dental centers offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make this procedure affordable for most people.
Dental implant procedures generally range from $800 to $6000 per tooth, although they may vary after an initial consultation with your dentist. If you’re looking for professionals for dental implants near you, you may browse the web to see accurate results.
3. Take care of your oral health and general wellbeing
Flossing and brushing daily is essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, tartar buildup, and implant failure. Lifestyle habits like smoking can have impacts and drawbacks on dental implant surgery and oral health, so practicing a healthy lifestyle and strict oral hygiene is essential before and after dental treatment. At least three months before your surgery, you should stop smoking for the best outcomes.
4. Be knowledgeable about its benefits and risks
All surgeries come with various risks. Dental implant treatment might cause:
- Infection
- Sinusitis
- Allergic reaction to implants
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
However, observing consistent oral hygiene and having a dentist expert in dental implants can reduce or prevent a few of the issues mentioned. After the surgery, your new dental implant can last two decades to 25 years or more and even strengthen your jawbone.
5. See if you’re a good candidate for the surgery
Speak to your dentist after a tooth loss or before tooth extraction. This is necessary for planning implant position and bone preservation. A good amount of jawbone is vital to support implants. But if you don’t have a healthy jaw for dental implant surgery, the dentist might suggest bone grafting to stimulate its growth.
