As is known to all, implant surgery is an ideal way to restore missing teeth. At the mention of the word “surgery”, however, it triggers some patients’ fear, making them hesitant to take the treatment. Is an implant surgery really that scary? Are there any competitions?

    Implant surgery refers to placing an implant post into alveolar bone at a right position to serve as a tooth root, followed by the installment of an abutment and a crown about three months later when the post has firmly integrated into the bone. 

    Doesn’t that sound very painful? Well, anesthesia will be applied during the surgery. You may feel a bit pain when you are injected with anesthesia. Later during the surgery, there is no pain at all. While some pain and swelling after the surgery are normal. 

    What if the artificial root fails to integrate with the alveolar bone? Dental implant is made of titanium which is well compatible with human body, ensuring a good integration between the implant and the bone. Besides, dentists are supposed to suggest a proper type of implant for patients based on their specific dental condition. So basically you don’t need to worry a lot about that. A poor integration is synonymous with an implant failure. Under such circumstances, dentists have to take the root out and find out the reasons for failure. Surely, it won’t threaten to life. 

    As for complications, there will be no room for their presence if the surgery is done successfully. Implant technique has seen a wide clinical application to date, enjoying a rather high success rate. It would be advisable to seek the treatment from an experienced and professional implant dentist. Besides, an implant tooth is supported by a freestanding root, without having to abrade adjacent teeth as porcelain restorations require. Good care after the surgery is indeed necessary, though. For instance, avoid eating hard foods, brush teeth carefully, and come back to your dentist for a check-up regularly. With good care you may well prevent peri-implantitis and a loose implant. Relevant article: How to Restore a Broken Incisor?

    In terms of dental work, the fittest way will be the best. No doubt, treatment plan will vary from case to case. If you do need the treatment, you’d better visit a professional for a face-to-face consultation and get your customized plan. 

    Please feel free to contact me if there’s any dental problem. (WeChat ID: aiyuan325180)