What Should I Know About Dental Implant Procedures?
Before you get any type of dental care, you should know all that you can learn about the process. This will allow you to make the most out of the procedure, while also arming yourself with great tips that will put your mind at ease. In the case of dental implants, you'll want to know what is involved, when you would need the procedure and other relevant information. To that end, read this guide in order to find out more.
What is involved in the dental implant process?
A dental implant is a type of false tooth that is installed inside of your gums, in order to get rid of teeth that are decayed or infected. The tooth, typically made out of porcelain, is attached to a metal bar, which is then inserted in the spot of the extracted tooth. The metal bar will then fuse inside of your gums, so that it is able to become part of your natural dental system.
How do I know that I will need to get a dental implant or implants?
Your dentist will typically let you know that you need dental implants as part of a routine dental checkup, when it appears that there is no saving a tooth. There are typically some signs of this, which you can recognize as follows:
- Dental implants might be a necessity if you already wear dentures. The implant provides a permanent change from having to wear the dentures.
- You have multiple missing teeth. The gaps in your teeth will continuously grow if not filled.
- If you have ever neglected to get serious procedures, such as a root canal, you likely will have to get the tooth extracted and replaced with an implant.
How should I care for my dental implant after the procedure?
Providing care for your implant after the procedure will help you to heal properly and deal with the pain. Make sure that you avoid eating any meals until the numbness has worn off, and avoid any hot beverages and food for a full day following the procedure. Use ice to reduce swelling, which will be an issue for at least a couple of days after the surgery. Take some over the counter pain killers, so that you're able to deal with inflammation and pain.
How much do dental implant procedures cost?
You can expect to pay a different price based upon your personal dental plan, but make sure that you understand the general costs. Typically, you might pay anywhere between $1,500 and $7,500 on such a procedure.
Consider these tips as you look to get the most out of your dental implant procedure.