Whether it’s age, trauma, bad habits, or gum disease, tooth loss can be distressing for anyone. Besides affecting your self-confidence, it can also affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile. This traumatic experience can also change your appearance if you neglect it.
Fortunately, you can restore your best smile thanks to advancements like tooth implants. However, remember that you should undergo surgery to get this treatment. While it may be understandable to feel nervous, you should also prepare for the procedure to ensure a successful operation and reduce the risk of complications.
If you want to reclaim your best smile, this article will define tooth implants, how dentists place them, and how to prepare for the big day.
What Are Tooth Implants?
If you’re considering getting tooth implants, you must understand that the process means undergoing minor oral surgery to place the device, an artificial tooth root that resembles a titanium screw. Depending on your situation, you may need additional procedures like a bone graft or sinus lift before or during the surgery. Your implant dentist will also explain the specifics of your treatment plan.
How Do Dentists Place Dental Implants?
Tooth implant surgery involves your dentist making tiny incisions in the gums to access the jawbone. Next, they’ll place the titanium implant post in the bone and screw it into place. They’ll then attach an abutment to the implant, which will protrude from the gums. Depending on your case, your healthcare provider may place a temporary tooth replacement on the abutment to give a more natural look. Lastly, they’ll stitch up the gums around the abutment.
Do Dentists Need Advanced Technology for This Treatment?
Your implant specialist may also use advanced technology to place implants without making incisions. Similar to getting your ears pierced, this process involves your healthcare professional using specialized tools to embed the implant into the area. That way, it minimizes tissue damage and speeds up the recovery process.
How to Prepare for the Surgery
Undergoing surgery can be nerve-wracking for most people, but it may be necessary to address your problem. After defining tooth implants and how professionals can place them, this section will help you prepare for the procedure.
When Scheduling Your Appointment
As you schedule your tooth implant surgical appointment, you must acquire all necessary medications from your doctor and arrange for someone to give you a ride to and from the procedure. They should stay with you for at least 24 hours post-surgery. You should also complete all pre-operative testing two weeks before the surgery and stop smoking.
Moreover, stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory agents, Vitamin E, garlic supplements, green tea/extracts, fish oil, estrogen supplements, and certain types of birth control ten days before surgery. Additionally, avoid caffeine for a week and drink lots of water for two weeks. Never drink alcohol for 72 hours before surgery.
The Day Before the Surgery
Take all the prescribed medications. You must also avoid consuming food or beverages after midnight. Moreover, let a trusted adult accompany you to and from the hospital. They should also stay with you for up to 24 hours post-surgery.
The Morning of Your Appointment
During your appointment, wear comfortable clothing, shoes, and socks. You should also avoid wearing jewelry, watches, or contact lenses. Moreover, if your doctor prescribes some sedative medications, take them as instructed. Additionally, you may sip small amounts of water (up to two ounces) only to take your medicines unless your healthcare provider recommends otherwise.
Final Thoughts
Tooth implant surgeries can be nerve-wracking and exciting for most people. You can get the best results by educating yourself about the procedure and knowing what to do before your appointment.
Manassas Smiles offers high-quality tooth implants in Manassas to help our patients replace their missing teeth and regain their confidence. Schedule an appointment now to reclaim your best smile!