A dental implant is the ideal replacement for a missing tooth, but the procedure is complicated and takes a lot of time. It takes even longer if you’re having several teeth replaced. Still, if you’re prepared for all that the procedure entails, you’ll get the closest thing to having your natural teeth back.
Is it Painful?
Even the bravest patient can balk at the thought of all the drilling, cutting and sewing up during implant surgery. The good news is that you’ll feel no pain because everything is done under local anesthesia. In fact, implant surgery is much less painful than wisdom tooth extraction. Your New Albany dentist can also prescribe sedatives if you are very anxious. For patients having several teeth replaced, Dr. Receveur may perform surgery under general anesthesia.
Some discomfort is still to be expected. Your gums may be swollen, and you have to go without teeth or dentures for a week or more. This means taking time away from work and the social scene until you get temporary dentures. Pain is unusual, but if you do experience it ask, your dentist about over-the-counter painkillers.
After the implant is placed, you have to wait for the area to heal and for the implant to fuse with bone. To ensure success, you must keep pressure off the implant site. Patients who are missing one or two teeth can wear a temporary crown or removable partial denture that does not sit on the gums. After the abutment is placed, you can wear the usual temporaries or dentures until your permanent teeth are ready. Avoid tough, crunchy and chewy foods in the meantime.
Finding the Right Dentist
The success of implant surgery depends a lot on candidate selection and the skill of your dentist or oral surgeon. You’ll have a better chance of success if you choose an implant expert with at least three to five years of experience placing implants, and one who has experience placing different types of implants.
Call (812) 945-7645 now to schedule a free consultation with Indiana implant dentist Dr. Receveur.