Oscar Allen
Do you wish to have dental implants but are anxious about visiting the dentist? Are you even more worried about being under sedation? Fear no more. This article will explain the process and how dental sedation can help.
Preparation
At this initial stage, the surgeon will have a discussion with you to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. A model of your teeth will then be taken to be used to prepare the crown.
The surgery
The surgery is then conducted. A hole is drilled through your gum and into your jawbone and the implant screwed in.
You will require some kind of anesthesia while undergoing the surgical procedure to help manage the pain. This is what is called dental sedation. Dental sedation makes the process much more bearable, and you may only be vaguely aware of your procedure.
The type of anesthesia you get will depend on the type of surgery you are to undergo and the level of comfort you desire. For one or two implants, a local anesthesia will suffice.
For a bone graft, you will require general anesthesia as your surgeon will have to remove bone tissue from another part of your body.
Your dentist may opt for conscious sedation if you are likely to experience anxiety over the implant installation. Conscious sedation will make your body completely relaxed as you undergo surgery. You, however, remain conscious and are able to understand and respond to instructions.
It is often used in conjunction with local anesthesia.
Contrary to popular opinion, general anesthesia is typically not necessary for dental implant surgery. Often, local anesthesia under conscious sedation is the preferred option. It is by far a safer option and has fewer side effects.
Integration
This is the period just after the surgery. It is meant to allow the metal implant to bond with the jawbone. It can last anywhere from six weeks to six months.
Restoration
To complete the procedure, a crown is placed on the protruding portion of the implant, known as the abutment.
Maintenance
Wait, it's not over yet. You have to know how to maintain your new-found teeth if you want them to last. Ensure you follow a good dental hygiene regime.
Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day; and watch out for that infection. Report any prolonged pain lasting more than several days to your dentist.
There is no mystery to dental implants and no need to fear the procedure. Unless you are going through a major procedure such as a bone graft, you'll never need to be under general anesthesia. A local anesthesia and probably some conscious sedation is all you'll ever need. Contact a dental surgery clinic such as Summit Oral Surgery for more information.
I grew up in a home with parents who did not insist on good dental hygiene. By the time I was old enough to know better, some damage had already been done. I had many cavities, crooked teeth, and some discoloration on my teeth. I knew it would not be easy to take my smile from where it was to where it is today, but I was determined to finally have nice teeth. I visited a dentist who was very nice and never judged me. We made a dental plan together. Spreading the procedures out over time made it much easier to afford them. I now have almost perfect teeth after all that hard work! I created this blog to help others who have dental problems that stem from bad childhood habits know there is hope! It is never too late to start seeing the dentist!