A Complete Guide on Getting Dental Implants in Scottsdale, AZ
Dec 01, 2021
Our teeth are used both for beauty and functionality. From when we are young, we are taught how to care for our teeth properly. We learn to take care of our deciduous teeth by brushing after meals and after eating sugary treats. After we shed the milk teeth to our permanent teeth, more measures are taken to protect and maintain our teeth. You must brush in the morning and before bed and floss regularly to maintain those pearly whites. Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, you may end up losing some teeth. This can be pretty devastating as missing teeth affect you in more ways than one. Not only can you not eat as you did before, but you can also become self-aware and be embarrassed to smile due to the missing teeth. Luckily, there are ways you can have your teeth fixed and restore your confidence and smile. The most common procedure is getting dental implants. Dental implants are metal posts surgically placed in the jawbone where artificial crowns are mounted to replace missing and damaged teeth. Below is a guide on what to expect when getting dental implants.
After you decide to get implants, the first order of business is the consultation with your doctor. The doctor will do some examinations and determine whether you are fit to get dental implants. The doctor needs to examine your jaw and gums where the dental implant is meant to be embedded. There is a lot of technological advancements benefits when getting dental services in Scottsdale AZ. After the first visit, you will get a prototype and see 3D images of how you will look like with your new teeth. The doctor will answer any questions you may have regarding sedation and recovery during this visit. You will then book an appointment for when to get the implants placed.
Once the dental surgeon gives you the go-ahead, the next step is to embed the implants. These implants are made of titanium which matches and effortlessly fuses with human bone. Zirconium is also gaining popularity as a non-metal option to titanium implants. If there is no adequate bone structure to place the implant, a bone graft is done. Bone grafting can be done from your healthy bone or from a donor. The dental surgeon then makes a slit on the gum, drills a small hole, places the implant, and closes the incision. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so there is little to no discomfort felt. You can get over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen to relieve any pain that may occur after the procedure. There are rarely any issues that arise after this process, and you can carry on with your normal activities. You are then given time for the incision to heal properly and the bone and implant to fuse. When you get your dental services in Scottsdale AZ, you get titanium and resin restoration to use as you heal.
Healing helps to achieve a sturdy base before the tooth can be mounted. The process where the bone fuses with the dental implant is known as osseointegration. This process is crucial for a successful dental implant procedure and can take a couple of months. When the surgeon is satisfied that the process has been successful, they then proceed with the abutment. An abutment refers to the connector metal placed between the metal implant and the root of the artificial crown. The dental surgeon will reopen the incision made when placing the dental implant and place the abutment on top of the implant. The gum around the implant is then closed. You will allow the gums enough time to heal before the crown can be placed.
After your gums have healed, an impression of your teeth and mouth are taken to make your new crown or artificial teeth. The impressions are taken to a dental lab where the artificial tooth or crown is made. The dental surgeon can decide to place a removable or fixed crown or both. A removable crown can be removed for cleaning and repairs, while a fixed or permanent crown is held down with a screw or cement and cannot be removed. Now you can enjoy your new set of teeth.
The new smile you now enjoy, courtesy of dental implants, needs to be taken care of. Basic oral hygiene applies here, i.e., brushing your teeth and flossing. You will also need to refrain from clenching your jaws as this may cause stress on the implant and affect its durability. After surgery, make sure to eat soft foods and avoid eating foods that will cause stress to the tooth. Make sure you go for regular checkups as advised by a dentist. You will need to do away with some habits like smoking as they may lead to dental implant complications and failure. It is best to refrain from eating foods that stain your teeth, such as coffee and turmeric.
Dental implants offer a lifeline for so many people. Before getting dental implants, do your research and consult your doctor on new implants available in the market. There have been advancements to traditional implants where you experience fewer side effects. There is less bruising associated with the dental implants, and some even dissuade bone loss. The decision on whether you want dental implants is ultimately yours. When deciding on getting dental implants, you need to set your finances straight. Most cosmetic dental covers fifty per cent of the cost, which means you will have to make up for the other half. Having your teeth replaced will definitely improve your quality of life.