Dental Implants for Missing Teeth: What to Expect During Your Procedure

Dental implant surgery is an excellent alternative to dentures and bridgework that don’t fit well. It can also be an option for those who have no natural tooth roots, which may prevent them from restoring the entire tooth structure with dentures or replacing their teeth with bridgework. Dr. Vidya Suri, our dentist at Sycamore Dental, Fort Worth, Texas, offers teeth implants that may be the right choice for you.

Before Surgery

Since dental implants need one or more surgical procedures, you will need to have a comprehensive evaluation to prepare for the process; this includes

• A thorough dental exam.
• A complete examination of your medical history.

You may also need to have any damaged teeth removed if required and jawbone preparation or bone grafting done if necessary before surgery.

You should plan to be taken home by someone if you are under general or sedation anesthesia. Then, you can relax for the remainder of the day.

Pre-op Prep

As a preventive measure, your dentist might ask you to take antibiotics before the surgery. You may also be asked to wash your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash for several days before the implant is placed.

Aftercare and Procedure

Two phases are required to complete dental implant restorations. The first phase involves the surgical placement and fusion of the biocompatible dental implant. Phase two is several months later after the implant has completely fused to the bone. That consists of attaching the crown or dentures.

Surgery

Before you start, your dentist will use a local anesthetic. To expose the bone below, they will make a small cut in the gum. A small and quiet drill is used to create the space for the implant. After the implant has been implanted, the dentist will place small “healing caps” over it. Then, the dentist will close the gum with a few stitches.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Suri at Sycamore Dental and learn more about dental implant options in Fort Worth, Texas, call her office today. Call (817) 438-1828 to schedule an appointment.