Are you thinking about getting dental implants to recomplete your smile? If so, you have an exciting road ahead of you! However, during your consultation, you might discover that you cannot get implants right away. Your dentist might tell you that you must undergo one or more preparatory treatments. What preliminary procedures are necessary before dental implant placement? This blog post explains a few different possibilities.
Tooth Extractions
If your remaining natural teeth are not in great shape, or if your dentist determines that removing them would ultimately be best for your oral health, you may need to undergo some tooth extractions.
In some cases, dental implants can be placed the same day as extractions. In other instances, a healing period of several weeks, or even a few months, is necessary.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults. If it responsible for your incomplete smile, your dentist will need to make sure that the infection is gone before you can move forward with dental implants. Otherwise, your gum disease may lead to dental implant failure.
Bone Graft
After the loss of a tooth, your body begins a process known as resorption. Basically, this means that it starts to recycle the bone that once supported your tooth. Over time, the jaw can become so small and weak that it is no longer able to support dental implants.
A bone graft is a surgery that uses bone material (either natural or artificial) to build up the jaw so it can provide a sturdy base for dental implants. Depending on the type of bone graft and its extent, you might be able to get dental implants during the same appointment. It is also possible that you will need to wait until the graft is well-integrated with your bone.
Sinus Lift
If the bone in your upper jaw is too thin, you might need a special type of bone graft known as a sinus lift. During the surgery, your dentist will carefully access your sinus membrane and push it upward. Then, they will place bone beneath it. This procedure ensures that your implants will not puncture your sinus cavity and cause complications.
Most patients are eligible for implants 4 – 12 months after sinus lift surgery.
Don’t be discouraged if you find out that you need one or more preliminary procedures before you get dental implants. Your patience is likely to reward you with a strong, happy smile that has the potential to last for decades.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page of Capital Smiles is an experienced dentist who proudly offers comprehensive dental implant services. If you are curious about what it would take for you to rebuild your lost teeth, she and our team would be happy to consult with you. Contact our Schenectady dental office at 518-374-0317.