What’s Involved in Implant Surgery?
If you’re having traditional implant surgery, each missing tooth will be replaced with a single artificial root. These roots resemble screws and are made of titanium or a titanium allow. Titanium is the ideal metal for implants because bone will bond with it, creating a strong, integrated foundation for your replacement teeth.
Placing the dental implants involves making an incision in the gum tissue, then setting the implants into the jawbone. It is necessary to use anesthetic during this procedure to minimize the discomfort. In most cases, a local anesthetic is sufficient. This may or may not be combined with sedation, depending upon your preferences.
Types of Anesthetic for Implant Surgery
Your implant dentist will help you determine the best way to approach anesthesia during your implant procedure. If you are only having a few implants placed, a local anesthetic might be sufficient. This can be combined with oral or intravenous sedation to make you more relaxed and comfortable. Nitrous oxide is also a common choice for sedation during surgery.
If you’re having several implants placed, such as all your top or bottom teeth, your dentist might prefer to use general anesthesia. This is because the surgery will be more extensive and take longer than it would with only a few implants. Be sure to discuss the risks and side effects of general anesthesia before your surgery.
Dental implants involve surgery and a healing process, but they are an excellent choice for tooth replacement. They are the most natural-looking and -feeling prosthetic teeth and since they’re implanted directly in the jawbone, they ensure your jawbone will remain healthy, rather than atrophying as often occurs in patients with dentures.
Contact our office to learn more about dental implants today.