Sometimes, getting a dental implant is necessary, especially if it’ll help restore your ability to chew. But if it’s your first time getting one, you may feel a bit nervous about it. To help you feel more at ease and be better prepared for your appointment, it’s best to ask the right questions first.
1. How Should I Prepare for My Dental Implant?
Depending on your situation, you may have to follow a certain treatment plan before your dental implant can be placed. If you have to have periodontal therapy, a professional will remove the dead, infected gum tissue around your tooth. This can lead to more pain and bleeding than you’re comfortable with, and it’s also not ideal to undergo this procedure if you have a medical condition such as diabetes.
If you’re having this done, ask your dentist or periodontist whether it’s safe for you or if another course of action would be better. Other pre-implant preparation means you’ll have to wait about six weeks after having a tooth extracted before a dental implant can be inserted because having an implant can make your gums more susceptible to inflammation.
2. Will I Experience Any Discomfort?
You’ll want to discuss what can be done to help you feel more comfortable during the dental implant procedure. Since anesthesia isn’t required for implants, you may be able to avoid the needle. But if you’re nervous about having a procedure done without it, let your dental professional know.
If you need a sedative, the dentist will likely recommend either a pill or an injection, depending on your preference. However, you may need cortisone injections to help reduce the incidence of swelling and bumpiness near your implant.
3. How Long Does the Process Take?
Most dental implant procedures take less than one and a half hours to complete. The first part of the process involves making an incision in the area where the implant will be placed. Then, an impression is taken of your jaw, and a temporary crown is placed over the implant. Then, the implant and the crown are wrapped together in dental cement, and the entire unit is set in place.
Finally, the dentist will check for proper placement and will instruct you on how to take care of the area until your next appointment.
4. What Can I Expect after Getting a Dental Implant?
There will be some soreness and swelling in the area around the implant, but you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to help ease your discomfort. The dentist will prescribe you pain medication and give you some information about how to best care for the implant.
For the next few weeks after you have a dental implant, you should avoid chewing hard, sticky foods. These can damage the crown or break the implant, which will make your dental professional have to remove it. You should also avoid chewing on that side as much as possible for about three weeks so that your gums can heal. It’s also important to wear a bite guard when you sleep for the first three weeks after the dental implant is inserted.
Final Thoughts
Getting a dental implant isn’t something that you may have thought about before — if you did, you probably thought of it as a drastic measure. However, this is a procedure that many people have done, and it can be one of the best decisions you make if you have an implant-worthy tooth. Just make sure to talk with your dentist about all your concerns before proceeding with the dental implant.
Get dental implants in Melrose, MA, from Melrose Dental Group. We are a family dentist that offers patients comprehensive dental care. We firmly believe in educating patients about their oral health and recommending custom dental treatments. Make an appointment today!