Dental implants are surgically placed titanium posts that attach to your jawbone and look and feel just like your natural teeth. Dental implants are a fantastic option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, illness, or decay, providing the opportunity to regain lost function and improve self-confidence. But only some realize that there’s so much more to dental implants than what meets the eye, so it’s important to see a periodontist before you decide whether dental implants are right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who miss one or more teeth. These titanium posts can be screwed into the bone in your jaw, providing stable anchor points to which your new teeth can be attached. With dental implants, you’ll have a natural-looking smile and all the benefits that come with it. Many people will eat healthier because they feel confident about their appearance.
A nice mouth full of healthy teeth looks great and has been proven to boost self-esteem. Regular dental checkups are vital for both oral health and overall health. A visit to your dentist at least twice yearly should include routine cleanings and a professional cleaning under anesthesia if necessary (a procedure called periodontal disease treatment).
When Should I See A Periodontist?
Dental implants are the best option for replacing teeth that have been lost. However, dental implants can’t be placed in the infected or diseased bone, so you must regularly see your periodontist for periodontal disease treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best prevention for this condition. The earlier it is detected, the better the chance of stopping it before it causes any significant damage.
A good rule of thumb would be to get your teeth cleaned every six months and then get an exam from your dentist or periodontist at least once a year. It’s also important to watch out for things like redness on gums, swelling, pus around teeth, loose teeth, and toothaches. There are many ways that people suffer from periodontal diseases, including smoking cigarettes, wearing dentures that don’t fit correctly or brushing their teeth too hard with excessive pressure.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treatment Done?
Periodontal disease treatment is done to eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease. There are many different ways to do this, but periodontal disease treatment is often done by deep cleaning your teeth. This is called scaling and root planning. It’s important to see a periodontist regularly for this periodontal disease treatment because they have advanced training in removing plaque from the tough spots on your teeth where you can’t reach it yourself.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants can cost between $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the number of implants you need. It is important to see a periodontist who will examine your oral health and decide if you are an appropriate candidate for dental implants. They also help restore bone around teeth and ensure implants stay in place during healing.
The surgeon will insert the implant into a hole drilled in the bone, which may take one or two visits to complete. When there is enough gum tissue over the implant, it becomes permanent and attached to your jawbone.
What Can You Expect After The Surgery?
Some patients will experience discomfort for one or two days following the surgery. Your mouth may also be sore or have some swelling, making it difficult to eat or speak. It would be best if you did not put anything in your mouth other than what your doctor tells you to chew on, as this can increase your risk of infection.
If you are experiencing pain, take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed by your doctor. Ensure drinking fluids during the first 24 hours after surgery and avoid smoking because both can interfere with healing. Most patients can resume their normal activities within 3-4 weeks after surgery.
Where Can You Find More Information About Dental Implants?
To learn more about dental implants, make an appointment with a periodontist in your area. It’s important to check your teeth to know if you’re at risk for tooth loss or gum disease. A periodontist can examine your mouth to determine your best treatment plan. When it comes to tooth replacement, there are many options available that provide different levels of comfort and success rates. Your dentist will be able to give you all the information you need to help you decide which option is right for you.
