Maybe you are thinking of acquiring a dental implant, or maybe you have already decided to have one placed. What's the next step? To some people, the simple thought of placing an implant in their mouth surgically can be scary and intimidating. But it does not have to be this way.

This post will outline every aspect of acquiring dental implants. Your dentist should be able to inform you about the cost you will incur and the kind of implant you need.

Overview

Currently, there are many options for replacing a missing tooth, and one that has gained popularity is a dental implant. Implants are normally made with titanium and are surgically placed by a dental specialist like an oral surgeon or dentist. Screw-like parts are usually put into the jawbone: they are meant to imitate the tooth root.

How long will it take?

Various factors determine the duration required for the implant procedure. The factors include:

• Number of teeth involved
• Your dental health
• Which teeth need to be replaced
• Whether a tooth must be extracted before the implant placement

All these factors also determine the number of visits to the dentist throughout the entire treatment period. For example, the surgery to place the artificial root into the jawbone typically takes about one or two hours to complete. You will have to return to the dentist later to have the crown placed.

Is the procedure painful?

As with any other surgery, you may feel some discomfort. Anaesthesia and/or any oral sedation are used to get rid of the discomfort during the procedure. Many patients have reported that they were more comfortable after the procedure than they anticipated. The dentist should prescribe suitable medications to ease any discomfort.

Post-surgery discomfort

Having some minor bruises and swollen soft tissues and gums is normal. Usually, any discomfort can be treated with ordinary painkillers like codeine, ibuprofen or hydrocodone. Once you take the painkillers, you'll be able to do your normal duties the next day.

Some potential complications may include:

• Bone loss around your implant
• Infection around your gum and surrounding bone
• The implant failing to adhere to your bone
• The body rejecting the implant

Implant maintenance

The new implant tooth needs to be cared for and regularly checked, like your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss your implant tooth as required by the dental hygienist or dentist. See the dentist after six months or more frequently.