If you are looking into dental implants, but don't know what dental implant surgery entails, we are here to relieve any worry. It may sound scary since it is considered surgery, but it will be worth every moment once you have beautiful results. Here are the steps to expect with dental implant surgery.

Initial Meeting with Cosmetic Dentist

First, you'll go to a cosmetic dentist's office to meet with a cosmetic dentist. They will be the ones doing your dental implant surgery. In this initial meeting, you will be evaluated as well as receive X-rays, find the perfect color that matches your teeth, and discuss your goals for this surgery. Dental implants can give you that smile you've always dreamed of or you may just want that one missing tooth filled in. No matter the reason, cosmetic dentists want to know what brought you into their office in the first place so they can make sure you get the results you're dreaming of.

Placing the Implant

The next time you see your cosmetic dentist, it may be your dental implant surgery. They will have your dental implant(s) ready with any numbing anesthesia needed. Since the process is so invasive, you will be put to sleep. The dentist will have to cut open your gum to expose your jawbone underneath. There will be holes that are drilled deep into this bone to make room for the implant. This can be very painful and discomforting after the procedure is done.

Abutment Placement

Your cosmetic dentist will then place an abutment on top of the implant while a little underneath the gum, making sure it is tightly in place. This will help your implant stay in place when you eat. This procedure is not as invasive or painful as the previous one, so you'll get anesthesia to the area the dentist is working in. You then have to wear a healing cap on all placements to keep the tissue and bone from growing over it.

Adding the Permanent Crown

The final step to your dental implant surgery is the addition of your artificial tooth. Then you'll finally get to have your beautiful teeth. These teeth are screwed into the abutment or they are glued down. This ensures that they are not moving anywhere.

The dental implant surgery is invasive, but your cosmetic dentist will be there every step of the way, helping you feel safe and comfortable in their care. All they want to do is give you that smile you've been seeking. According to reuters.com, about 3 million people in the U.S. have dental implants. This could be you if you give it a chance.