Are you interested in getting dental implants to replace missing teeth? We would be happy to help you learn more about this treatment. Please keep reading to learn more about dental implants. When you are ready to meet with our Calgary dentist, call the office to set up a consultation. We would be happy to help you understand what it is like to get dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a tooth replacement. It has three parts. The visible portion of the dental implant is a dental crown, often made out of ceramic. It is made to look like the rest of your natural teeth. The crown is placed on an abutment attached to a screw embedded in the jawbone.
Will I Be Sedated for the Procedure?
Dental sedation can be used for a few reasons when getting dental implants. You may need help relaxing for the procedure if you have anxiety or a dental phobia that can get in the way of getting the treatment you need.
You will likely have some sedation when receiving dental implants, especially a complete set.
Dental sedation can be given to you through an IV, oral meds, or breathing in nitrous oxide. You may be given general anesthesia if you get a full mouth of dental implants. What you are given will be determined by your dentist based on your procedure and what would best suit your needs.
IV sedation relaxes you but keeps you awake and aware. It wears off quickly as soon as the IV is taken out.
Your dentist can give you oral medication prior to the procedure to relax you. Again, you will be awake and aware. You will need a ride home, as your medication is unlikely to wear off until well after the procedure. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Valium and Ativan for dental implants.
Nitrous oxide is also known as laughing gas. You may feel sleepy and doze off, but your dentist can easily wake you. This is one of the most well-known types of dental sedation.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are regarded as a permanent solution to tooth loss. Once the screw is implanted into the jawbone, you will be able to reap the benefits of the implant for life. You may eventually need a replacement crown if your other teeth start to discolor or the crown takes some damage to it.
You need to treat your dental implant just as well as your natural teeth. Like a real tooth, it can hold plaque which, when left behind in the mouth, can cause gum disease. Even if your ceramic tooth doesn’t decay like your natural teeth, it can affect your overall oral health if you do not brush and floss it like you would if it was real.
What is the Recovery Like?
You will have the implants placed before you get the dental crown placed. In the 24 hours after your surgery, you should only rinse your mouth with warm, salty water. After 24 hours, you can gently brush your teeth.
You can use over-the-counter pain medications or prescription medications to help with the pain from the procedure. The pain should be gone within a few days. You will want to avoid using a straw, drinking hot foods or beverages, and smoking while recovering.
Call Our Calgary Dentist for More Information
Are you looking for more information about dental implants? We are here to help you. Our Calgary dentist would happily walk you through getting a dental implant from start to finish. Call the office right away to schedule your consultation to learn more.