If you have spaces in your smile where your permanent teeth used to be that are embarrassing and make you shy away from people, then dental surgery may be for you. Dental implants along with artificial teeth can be a nice way to fill in those empty pockets where your tooth used to be. And most people find that dental implants are more comfortable, efficient and even more secure then dentures or bridges.
Dental implants aren't the same thing as artificial replacement teeth. A post is surgically implanted in the jawbone beneath the gum tissue. Next an extension is attached on top of the metal post. Finally, a realistic-looking artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the extension, creating a three-piece device that completes your smile. You may have one tooth replaced with dental implant surgery or many.
Dental implants may be right for you if you:
• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have a jawbone that's reached full growth
• Have adequate bone to secure the implants, or are able to have a bone grafting procedure
• Have healthy oral tissues
• Don't have health conditions that will impair bone healing
You may experience some of the typical discomforts associated with any type of dental surgery. These may include:
• Swelling of your gums and face
• Bruising of your skin and gums
• Pain at the implant site
• Minor bleeding
Very rarely, stiffness of your jaw muscles may occur, or you might not be able to fully open your mouth. If swelling, discomfort or any other problem gets worse in the days after surgery, contact your implant surgeon. He or she may prescribe pain medications or antibiotics.
Like any surgery, dental implant surgery poses some health risks. Problems are rare, though, and when they do occur they're usually minor and easily treated. Risks include:
• Infection at the implant site
• Nerve damage, which can cause pain, numbness or tingling in your natural teeth, gums, lips or chin
• Sinus problems, when dental implants placed in the upper jaw protrude into one of your sinus cavities
Click here to read more from OnlineSurgery.com