At Lovett Dental West U, our specialty dentists install dental implants every day. They present one of the safest forms of tooth replacement. However, we understand that some clients have concerns about the safety of dental implants. Therefore, we have put together some information to help you decide between implants, crowns, and bridges. If you have questions regarding your options, reach out to your dentist to discuss specialty dental services.
The Dental Implant Process
During the procedure, a dental implant specialist provides a local anesthetic. To secure the device, your dentist will drill holes along the jawline. The installed fastener serves as an anchor for the replacement tooth or teeth. Typically, you get the crown, bridge, or denture plate in a subsequent visit. Most clients have mild pain following the procedure. Your dentist will provide a prescription or recommend over-the-counter solutions to manage the pain. As with many dental procedures, you may experience some discomfort following the surgery. Your dentist will advise you on what foods to avoid during the healing process. For example, you may want to avoid crunchy foods while your jaw heals.
The Safety of Dental Implants
If you have concerns about dental implant safety, ask your dentist or oral surgeon to help you understand the risk. Infections pose the greatest threat during the healing process. However, infections rarely result from the surgery itself. By following your Houston dentist’s oral hygiene instructions, you can avoid infections and facilitate the healing process.
In rare cases, you may need to undergo additional surgery due to complications in the healing process. The vast majority of procedures have positive outcomes, underscoring the overall safety of dental implants.
Reducing Complications of Dental Implants
Most patients have no problems with their implants. However, some feel a bit uncomfortable until they get used to them. Traditional crowns and bridges will require the same adjustment period. Soon, you find yourself comfortable with the device even when you speak or chew. Visually, the new implants resemble natural teeth. Take care of your teeth properly,
and the safety of dental implants increases dramatically. Talk to your
dentist about any medical conditions you have that may impact the effectiveness and healing of dental implants. You may need to take extra precautions if you have an autoimmune disorder such as AIDS or HIV.
Complications can occur during healing, especially when you relax your oral hygiene habits or eat the wrong kinds of food. To avoid additional surgery, follow the dentist’s instructions very closely. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you may have during the crucial healing stage.
Complications from dental implants can cause infection and pain, which may result in the removal of the implant in a small percentage of cases. As healing progresses, the risks decrease, and your mouth begins to accept the inserted implant. Prioritize oral hygiene so that the gums, teeth, and mouth remain clear of bacteria that cause infections.
In most cases, you have the power to control implant failure. When you keep the gums and teeth clean and healthy, the safety of dental implants increases dramatically.
Reach Out to Lovett Dental West U Today
Lovett Dental West U is a full-service dental clinic in Houston, TX. We provide a number of services to our clients, including the following:
- Pediatric dentistry services
- General dentistry services
- Cosmetic dentistry services
- Orthodontic services
- Periodontics
A Gorgeous Smile Is Within Your Reach
Your teeth are often the first things people notice about your face. Even if a tooth isn’t always visible when you smile, a discolored tooth can cause nearby teeth to rot. Addressing the problem right away can make a significant difference in your dental health. Dental implants are a very durable, stable tooth replacement option. By taking the place of missing or non-functioning teeth, a dental implant acts as a new tooth.
Your Lovett West U dentist will install an anchor into the jawbone at the site of the missing or cracked tooth. This replaces the root of the tooth to ensure that the dental implant is secure and that it becomes fused with the jawbone. A short period of healing is often necessary to allow the jaw to begin to bond with the biocompatible post; however, most of our Lovett patients report a much shorter healing time than they first expected. Your jaw will actually begin to grow and fuse itself to the installed anchor. After we complete the procedure, our dental implant restoration will be just as strong as a natural tooth.
Dental Implants Are a Safe Tooth Replacement Option
Our dedicated, experienced staff takes every possible precaution to ensure the safety of dental implants.
If you have any concerns or would like more information on the process associated with dental implants, we would be happy to schedule a consultation. Contact Lovett Dental West U at 832-617-5530 or contact us online today to learn more about our services.