Are Dental Implants Safe?Unlike when losing a tooth meant losing it for good, modern-day dentistry provides solutions to every dental problem. If you have a missing tooth, you can opt for one of the few ways to fill the gap for a confident smile. The top preference of Dr. Sherry and Dr. Lee is a dental implant. We will go through the details of the dental implant procedure to determine if the process is safe. History of Dental ImplantsThe concept of dental restoration goes back many centuries. Early civilizations analyzed the significance of replacing lost teeth in the long term. People could eat properly and indulge in various activities that people with healthy teeth enjoyed. The first attempt to reconstruct a missing tooth was in 600 AD. The Mayan civilization introduced the procedure to the world. However, the passing years and advancing technology made the dental implant procedure much easier and patient-friendly. Who is an Ideal Candidate for Dental Implants?Dental implants have a high success ratio in most regions. However, the procedure requires a thorough evaluation of the candidate beforehand to avoid future complications. An ideal candidate for the dental implant procedure is someone who has good overall health, takes proper care of their gums and teeth, and has a healthy jawbone. Since oral surgeons place implants in the jawbone, it should be healthy and strong to hold them in place. Candidates with gum infections or other oral diseases should consult their dentist before opting for the procedure. The Common Effects of Tooth LossMany patients avoid dental implants due to a lack of awareness of the procedure. They practice eating with other teeth by avoiding the gaps in the denture. While it may serve as a short-term solution, such patients may notice the effects of tooth loss later. For instance, chewing without a tooth may exert direct pressure on the gum and the bone tissues. When left untreated, it can lead to bone loss. Moreover, gums become more sensitive to different types of foods when eating. Thinning gums often show inflammatory responses, causing difficulty in drinking and eating. Losing several teeth may lead to a changed appearance in some patients. More importantly, patients may miss out on healthy foods due to missing teeth. Dental Implant FAQsIf you have a missing tooth and have questions before deciding on your next move, the following dental implant FAQs may help you. Are Dental Implants Safe?Dental implants are safe after thoroughly evaluating the gums and the jawbone. The process may only be risky when the patient suffers from other health problems, including gum disease, bone diseases, autoimmune diseases, and calcium deficiency. How Painful Is the Procedure?Generally, oral surgeons treat patients with a local anesthetic before carrying out the procedure. The patients may not notice discomfort much during the procedure. However, taking prescribed medication is crucial to avoid any pain after. How Long Does it Take?If the dental implant procedure goes as planned, it may take up to a few months to heal properly. Oral surgeons place implants in the bone tissue, causing it to take longer to heal. Have a missing tooth but are not sure what you need? Dr. Sherry and Dr. Lee at Dallas Oral Surgery Associates can thoroughly evaluate your teeth and jaw to determine the best procedure. Contact the clinic today at 972-733-0414 to schedule your appointment. |
