The assumption that dental implant surgery is an unpleasant experience is a common misconception for many dental patients. What most patients don’t realize, however, is that the procedure is a fast, efficient, and painless way to restore their smiles after having a tooth extracted or lost to extensive damage.
Between the modern equipment used for surgery, and the array of numbing and sedation options available, patients should have little to no uneasiness about this procedure.
Before your Implant Treatment
After teeth are extracted, the thought of going to a dentist for implant placement surgery can possibly lead patients to choose dentures for the mere convenience. By discussing options with our dental office dentist, patients receive information and education on how pain-free and simple the procedure actually is, which helps them make treatment choices that are better for their health in the long-run.
Learning about the benefits of implants can help to diminish any residual doubt about whether the procedure is worthwhile.
Implant Surgery Explained
The surgery itself is relatively simple. After applying the proper amount of sedation and local anesthetic, our affiliated oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum line where the implant will be installed. The implant itself is a post is then securely added into the jawbone so it can take on the same function as the original tooth root. Once the post is in place, the surgeon will suture the gum back together. Depending on the number of implants required for your treatment plan, as well as any anxiety you may be experiencing, your level of sedation can range from a local anesthetic such as Novocain to oral conscious or IV sedation.
For some patients, bone grafting surgery may be necessary before implants to help strengthen the jaw; often both procedures are performed simultaneously. Even when this is the case, the sedation levels are adjusted accordingly to leave you pain-free throughout the procedure.
Post-Operative Well Being
After the surgery, any discomfort can be alleviated by an over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil. A small amount of bruising can occur as well, but complications beyond that are rare to nonexistent.
Contact Us in Gillette Today
At Dental Care Center, LLC, Drs. Nick A. Bouzis and Brian N. Hokanson are committed to quality care for all your dental care needs, no matter how large. If you are a candidate for dental implants but have been apprehensive about treatment, call our office to set up a consultation to dispel any fears and put yourself on a path to a full, healthy smile today!