If you’re thinking of getting dental implants to replace your lost teeth, you might be wondering a lot about the process. One of the main things people want to know is how long it takes. This article will give you clear and detailed information about the length of the process. Rest assured, the information is easy to understand and made for people with just a basic knowledge of English. Each section is divided into clear, short paragraphs with bullets to make sure you can take in the info without getting overwhelmed.

Breaking Down Dental Implants

Let’s start with understanding what dental implants are. They’re not actual teeth, but they act as the roots of your teeth. Doctors make them from a metal called titanium. They put these implants in your jaw where you’ve lost a tooth. Then, they add a fake tooth on top. It’s as close as you can get to having a real tooth again. Visit their website for a more extensive look at this topic. Let’s break this down further:

• Artificial Roots: As stated, dental implants act like the roots of your teeth. They’re shaped to fit perfectly in your jawbone.
• Titanium: This is the metal used to make the implants. It’s strong, durable, and doesn’t react with your body’s tissues.
• New Teeth: These are the false teeth they add on top of the implants. They’re made to look and work just like natural teeth.

The Stages of Getting Dental Implants

How long does it take to get dental implants? It all depends on you and your unique situation. Your oral health, how many implants you need, and the type of implants you choose can all affect the time it takes to complete the procedure. There’s a general timeline that most patients can expect to follow.

• Step 1 – Planning: This is when you’ll meet with the dentist or oral surgeon for the first time. They will perform a dental check-up. This is to make sure dental implants are the right option for you. It generally takes one or two visits.
• Step 2 – Implant Placement: During this step, the dental professional will actually place the implant in your jaw. This oral surgery can take between one to two hours.
• Step 3 – Healing: After your surgery, it will take time for your mouth to heal. This healing process often takes between three and six months. During this time, you will be given instructions for proper post-implant care.
• Step 4 – Adding the New Tooth: When your mouth is healed, the dentist will attach the new tooth to the implant. It may be necessary to visit the dental clinic one or two times for this step.

Possible Problems with Dental Implants

Just like with any other operation, getting dental implants does come with some risks. It’s essential to be aware of this so you know what to look out for. This way, you can stop any problems before they get too serious.

• Infection: Getting an infection after surgery is always a potential issue. With dental implants, a particular type of gum disease called peri-implantitis might occur. This can lead to loss of the bone around the implant if not treated properly.
• Not Combining Well: Sometimes, the implant doesn’t merge well with the jawbone. If this happens, it may be removed. Then, the dentist will try the process again.
• Damage to Surrounding Teeth: Enamel damage to the teeth near the implant can also happen in some cases. It’s important to tell your doctor if you’re feeling any pain on the surrounding teeth after the surgery.

About Invisalign

Invisalign is a great innovation in the world of dental care. It gets rid of the need for metal braces and gives people a simpler and more elegant way to straighten their teeth. This is an excellent option for those living in Southampton who want clear aligners in Southampton.

• Almost Invisible: Invisalign trays are made from a clear material. This means they’re hardly noticeable at all.
• Removable: You can take out the trays when you eat or brush your teeth.
• Comfortable: They’re designed to fit your teeth perfectly. This means they’re much more comfortable than traditional braces.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Implants After Surgery

Once you have your new dental implants, you’ll need to take care of them. By doing this, you can make sure they last as long as possible.

• Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Brush, but be gentle on the area near the implant. Don’t forget to do this in the morning and in the evening.
• Regular Dental Trips: Going to the dentist isn’t most people’s favorite thing to do, but it’s crucial for keeping your oral health in check. It’s even more important after getting dental implants. Don’t skip your dental check-ups.
• Your Lifestyle: Avoid consuming too much alcohol or tobacco. These substances can affect the durability of your implants. Take care of your overall health and it will benefit your oral health too.
• Teeth Grinding: Sleeping while grinding your teeth can be harmful. Your dentist might suggest a mouth guard for you to guard your implants against damage during sleep.
• Teeth Cleaning: Even though your dental implants aren’t natural teeth, you still need to clean them like real ones. Be diligent about teeth cleaning to guard your oral health.

Final Thoughts

Getting dental implant surgery is a big step. But it’s a great solution for lost teeth, and it’s an investment in your health. Though the process might seem long, the results are definitely worth it. Make sure to take good care of your implants and maintain a regular dental hygiene routine. That way, you can ensure your new teeth will last a long time. After all, your smile is an essential part of you, so invest in it.