If you are considering dental implants as a way of replacing your missing teeth, you may be worried about the procedure. It's okay to experience surgical anxiety. You might be imagining how your tooth roots will be replaced with metal. You might also be wondering how the screw-like posts will fit in your mouth. However, getting the right information is vital in abating fear.

Here are four important things you need to know about dental implants:

1. They Are the Best Teeth Replacement Option

If you have missing teeth, you have to choose between dental implants, bridgework, or dentures as replacement options. Implants are a better alternative to dentures or bridgework. As long as your jaw and gums are healthy, you can get replacement teeth that resemble natural ones. If you observe good oral hygiene, the implants will serve you for decades.

2. You Can Choose Between Two Types of Dental Implants

When you visit a dentist, you will be required to choose between the two common types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. What is the difference between the two? On the one hand, endosteal implants are deeply fixed in the bone. On the other hand, subperiosteal implants are placed in the jawbone, just below the gum tissue.

Subperiosteal implants tend to be less durable. Since the implants are loosely placed on the gum, they don't give solid support to the artificial teeth. Thus, they may have to be replaced after some time.

3. Dental Implant Surgery Is a Process

In other words, you don't wake up one day and go in for dental implant surgery. The process involves multiple steps. First, all the damaged teeth are removed, and the jawbone is prepared through grafting. After these initial steps, it may take a few days before the gums are ready for an implant.

Next, a dental implant is placed, and the doctor will recommend a few weeks for the bone and gums to heal. Abutments and artificial teeth are then placed. You have to be patient, as the entire process may take months.

4. You May Need Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is typically recommended if your jawbone is too soft or isn't thick enough. The objective of grafting is to create a more solid base for the implant.

Your dentist will review your gums and jawbone to ascertain if you need grafting or not. If you are a candidate for grafting, the dentist will use one of the available bone graft materials, such as a natural bone graft or a synthetic bone graft.

Conclusion

As it's always said, information is power. Once you understand what the entire process entails, you don't have to be frightened. Dental implants are safe and durable. With excellent oral hygiene, they will serve you for a lifetime. Contact a dental office like Parkview Dental to learn more.