Everyone has phobias such as fear of heights, spiders and flying. Although situations involving these phobias can be frightening, they can also be easy to steer clear of. One particular fear that you cannot avoid is the dentist, particularly when you are considering an invasive procedure such as dental implants. This article will give you some information about dental implant treatments so you are prepared and don’t feel quite so nervous.
If you’re in need of a dental implant or considering the procedure, you should take note that having a healthy lifestyle will inevitably help your teeth maintain a good condition. Therefore, habits such as heavy drinking and smoking will ruin your teeth’s long-term health. Some dentists will be reluctant to carry out the procedure if you cannot reduce smoking or give up altogether.
What is a dental implant?
In simple terms, a dental implant is a replacement for your tooth’s natural root. The replacement is usually a screw shape which is drilled into an exact location of the future tooth. All dental implants are made from materials that are tolerated by bone; titanium or titanium alloy.
How is a dental implant positioned?
To soothe nervous patients in and around Stockport, you should know that the procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthesia; in longer cases IV sedation is often used. Before the treatment you will undergo a series of x-rays and scans to assess the quality of your bone and to obtain an exact anatomical view of your mouth’s structure.
The procedure is as follows:
- Gum is cut and lifted
- A small hole is drilled into jawbone
- Titanium implant is secured into hole
- Gum is positioned back over implant
It is as simple as that. Once the procedure is over, the gum is left to heal from six weeks to six months. During this time, you are given temporary teeth or you can continue to wear dentures if you have them. Finally, when your implant is healed and ready, the permanent replacement tooth is fitted.
How long does implants last?
You’ve done the hard part now you should take good care of your new implant; this is done with everyday cleaning and regular visits to your dentist and hygienist. This quality of care will determine how long your implant will last. It may be necessary to replace a tooth due to wear or fracture.