Dental implants are a type of prosthesis used by dentists to replace missing teeth. An implant consists of two parts –

Per-Ingvar Brånemark was a Swedish orthopedic surgeon who invented the first implant in 1952. Since then, multiple developments in the field of implant dentistry have now made dental implants the most sought-after tooth replacement option.

Numerous Americans suffer from tooth loss, despite all the progress made in dental care. The usual causes include gum disease (which affects about 60% of Americans), injury, etc. Replacing missing teeth is imperative for oral health since it restores the function and aesthetic of the oral cavity.

There are several options for replacing teeth, which include partial and full dentures, fixed dental bridges, and dental implants. The restorative option depends on the following factors –

What Are The Advantages of Dental Implants?

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Compared to the traditional methods of tooth replacement, dental implants have added advantages.

What Are The Disadvantages of Dental Implants?

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Aside from their many advantages, dental implants also have some disadvantages.

What Is The Procedure For Dental Implants?

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In cases of simple placement with minimal or no grafting, patients don’t experience a lot of post-operative swelling or discomfort. However, in complex cases which involve grafting, the recovery period can be extended.

Patients experience mild discomfort accompanied by minor inflammation and occasional bruising that might last a few days. This is managed by medication and post-operative instructions given by the dentist. Patients normally return to their regular diet after approximately 7-10 days. In certain cases, patients might be advised to follow a soft diet for up to 6 weeks.

What Is The Recovery Time For Dental Implants?

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The recovery period after getting an implant can be affected by the following –

The patient’s lifestyle greatly impacts the healing and recovery time. For example, smokers are advised to either avoid smoking or minimize it for a week or two to not hamper the recovery. Aside from the extended time taken to heal, smoking also harms the healing process, particularly if grafting is involved.

Additionally, the patient’s oral habits also play a huge role in the success of an implant. If the patient fails to comply with proper brushing and flossing, they can cause the site of surgery to get infected. As a result, this could lead to implant failure.

If you experience prolonged pain, it could be any of the following issues, and you should get in touch with your dentist immediately –

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

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Dental implants, unlike natural teeth, aren’t prone to decay, but gum health is essential to maintain its longevity and success. Patients are advised to care for their implants by going in for routine professional cleanings, regular follow-ups, and caring at home. The success of an implant relies on not only the planning and diagnosis of the procedure, but also your medical history, and your lifestyle choices during the healing period.

Usually, with a proper oral routine and regular visits to the dental office, implants can last a lifetime, barring any complications.

For more information on dental implants, their indications, and the cost, feel free to get in touch with the family dentists at Le Sueur Family Dental. Call us at (507) 665-6812 today to book an appointment.