Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that one-quarter of adults aged 65 years old and above have eight or fewer teeth. Meanwhile, one in every six adults aged 65 years old and above has lost all their teeth. There are many ways tooth loss can change your life; sadly, it's not for the better. Thankfully, dental implants in Kissimmee, FL, can restore everything to how it used to be. This revolutionary dental restoration procedure can bring your smile and oral function back up to 100%.

Facts About Dental Implants

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a cylindrical screw-shaped metal rod with a width of 3.4 and 5.8 millimeters. A mini-implant is smaller, with a width of 1.8 to 3.3 millimeters. Both regular and mini-implants share the same length. The latter is ideal for people with narrow jawbones.

Why Is the Surgery Done?

To receive dental implants, you must first undergo screening to check if you are eligible for the surgery. Dental implants function as artificial tooth roots. Your oral surgeon will incise your gums and open them up to expose the jawbone underneath.  

In addition, tiny holes are drilled in the area where the implants will be placed. Since the titanium rods permanently integrate with your jawbone, you can be confident that the implants won’t make noise or slip out of your mouth.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Dental implants are ideal for the following people:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Fully developed jawbone
• Have enough jawbone structure to secure the implants
• Healthy oral tissues
• No health conditions that could hamper bone healing
• Non-smoker
• Willing to commit to the lengthy process that could take months

What Can You Expect?

The surgery is done in an outpatient setting and is performed in different stages with healing periods in between. First, you’ll undergo screening, and if you pass the eligibility criteria, your oral surgeon will schedule you for surgery.  

For patients with an insufficient jawbone, bone grafting may be necessary. It will then be followed by dental implant placement. Once the implants are in place, the next goal is to complete osseointegration. This is the process where bone tissues grow around the implants. The abutments are placed afterward, followed by the artificial teeth.  

The entire dental implant process can stretch up to several months from consultation until the placement of the dental crowns or dentures. Most of the waiting period is for healing and waiting for new bone growth.  

What Happens After the Surgery?

You may experience the following at any stage of the dental implant process:

• Pain and discomfort at the site of implant placement
• Bruising on your gums and skin
• Facial swelling
• Gum swelling
• Minor bleeding

Your oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics and pain medications to prevent infection and alleviate discomfort following surgery. Dentists recommend you stick to a soft diet during the first few days to minimize discomfort and irritation.  

How Should You Care for Your Dental Implants?

To keep your dental implants in great shape, you should practice good oral hygiene diligently. Dental implants don’t require special care; you just have to follow your usual oral care routine by brushing and flossing daily and making sure you visit your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and teeth cleanings.  

Do You Have More Questions About Dental Implants in Kissimmee, FL?

If you are interested in dental implants, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the procedure.  

At Kissimmee Family Dentistry, we offer affordable restorative dental services that ensure comfort while providing you with excellent care. We have years of experience, so you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands. Contact us today for a consultation.