You’ve lost a tooth due to an accident, and upon visiting a dental clinic, you’ve been advised to get a dental implant to replace the missing one. While it seems like the most plausible solution, questions now likely formulate in your mind. The process and total costs are given factors, but how long will the surgery take? Are there any risks involved? How much do you need to prepare?

You’re always more than welcome to answer these questions, but the important ones always occur to you well after you’ve walked out of the office. Such procedures need ample understanding and preparation, so you need to gather everything you possibly can.

To ensure that all your questions are answered, we’ve compiled this short checklist of questions you need to put out there—all before scheduling the surgery:

Question #1: What encompasses dental implant surgery?

Most dentists recommend the dental implant procedure because they’re the perfect replacements for organic teeth roots. During the procedure, a titanium root will be inserted through the gums, which will go as far as the jaw bone. After the healing process, the titanium will naturally fuse with your jaw, officially known as the osseointegration process. 

Once the osseointegration process is complete, your dentist will then attach an abutment, where the denture crown (or false tooth) will be situated. Such a process can be daunting, but it allows people who’ve lost their natural teeth to enjoy the same benefits. You’ll essentially be able to enjoy a seemingly real and organic tooth, with no worries of it coming off or causing pain.

Question #2: Are there any risks associated with the dental implant?

As with every good thing in life, dental implant surgery comes with some risks. However, it’s important to know that these risks are never dangerous, and the benefits you can enjoy after the process far outweigh them. Allow your dentist to walk you through the potential risks involved, but here are some of the most common:

  • Injuries or damages around the teeth and blood vessels
  • Infections
  • Nerve damage
  • Sinus issues

Note: Keep in mind that these only occur with a medical error or improper after-surgery care. Your dentist will also likely require you to go through a series of tests, just to ensure that you’re cleared to go through a surgical procedure.

Question #3: Is the procedure as painful as it sounds?

The risks listed above may sound daunting, if not downright terrifying. The pain involved with surgery also likely causes you to hesitate, but the truth is that dental implants aren’t as painful. One might even say that tooth extractions are even more painful! 

Your dentist will be using a local anesthetic to plant the titanium roots, saving you from feeling any pain. You will feel a general discomfort throughout the procedure, however, especially since you’ll be awake. If this isn’t possible for you, make sure to communicate with your dentist—you’ll likely be allowed to request sedatives. 

The Bottom Line

Before agreeing to any procedure or treatment, it’s important to first educate yourself. Asking your dentist numerous questions is paramount not only to the success of the procedure but your peace of mind. What may work for others may not necessarily hold true for you, so make sure to communicate and above all, ask away!

If you wish to work with the best dentist in Edmonton, Edmonton Smiles has you covered. We offer you a team of passionate professionals, dedicated to helping you regain your confidence through a healthy smile. 

Sit back and stay comfortable throughout—we’ll do all the work. Book an appointment today!

Posted in Dental News & Advice