What Are Dental Implants?

Most people will experience some discomfort following dental implant surgery. Afterward, an ice pack is applied to the area to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain medications should provide adequate pain relief. However, more invasive surgeries may require more vital prescription pain medication and a more extended recovery period. Additionally, you may be prescribed antibiotics or an oral rinse to aid in the area’s healing. Your dentist will also discuss possible complications before the procedure.

Solid Base of Bone for the Implant

Achieving a solid base of bone for dental implants is known as “bone grafting.” It consists of several surgical procedures designed to create a stable base for dental implants. Patients should discuss their dental goals with their doctor before undergoing any surgical procedure. In addition to a thorough examination, the process requires dental X-rays to determine the amount of bone loss that needs to be regenerated.

While traditional dentistry can achieve a solid base of bone for implantations, in some cases, grafting is necessary to achieve the necessary amount. Dental implants require a solid base of the bone and need to be placed in an area with a high bone density. This requires skilled grafting. If the grafting is not done correctly, the procedure can result in a poor base of bone for dental implants.

Although it is difficult to predict when the grafting process will be necessary, several steps must be taken to ensure the procedure goes well. First, a dental implant isn’t placed until the grafted bone has fused with the natural bone in the area. This can take anywhere from four to six months, depending on the graft’s location and the bone density in the area. Patients may wear temporary teeth until the bone has healed sufficiently during this time.

Anesthesia is Preferred

When deciding if you need dental implants, you’ll need to determine what type of anesthesia you prefer. This will depend on the number of implants and your overall comfort level. For fewer implants, you can opt for local anesthesia, but if you need more than one, you may be put under general anesthesia. Regardless of which type of anesthesia you choose, you can rest assured that you’ll be comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

In many instances, local anesthetic is adequate for dental implant surgery. However, general anesthesia is recommended for more complex procedures, such as replacing an entire arch of teeth. Although dental implant surgery can be stressful, it’s usually worth the extra cost and peace of mind for your overall health. Anesthesia is preferred for dental implant surgery because it allows you to remain unconscious during the procedure. Anesthesia will also help to ensure that you recover quickly after the procedure.

When it comes to dental implant surgery, general anesthesia is rarely used. General anesthesia is typically reserved for major facial procedures and reconstructive surgeries. A combination of IV sedation and nitrous oxide sedation is more common. Your dentist will determine which type is best for you. However, patients who are exceptionally nervous or anxious should consider local anesthesia. A combination of both can be effective. The choice will depend on your preferences.