A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it replaces both the root and the crown. With over a 95% rate and an average lifespan of 30 years or more, a dental implant is a wise investment to replace a lost tooth. Your first step to a complete smile is a consultation with your dentist. They will create a personalized treatment plan, which may include a little prep work. Here are a few of the most common preliminary procedures required before dental implant surgery.
Tooth Extractions
Dentists always try to preserve every natural tooth, but extractions are recommended for certain situations. You may need to have severely damaged or infected teeth removed before your surgery. You must wait for your mouth to heal before moving forward with dental implants. Although it may add a few more weeks to your treatment plan, it is time well spent to ensure your dental implants succeed.
Gum Disease Therapy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50% of Americans have gum disease, despite being preventable. It is a leading cause of tooth loss and can affect your general health. If you have any signs of gum disease, the infection must be resolved to ensure the success of your dental implants. You must also commit to your oral hygiene after your placement surgery to prevent the infection from recurring.
Bone Grafting
A bone graft is recommended for patients who don’t have a healthy jaw. You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year of missing a tooth because it isn’t being stimulated by the root. Bone loss will continue as more time passes. If too much is lost, bone grafting is needed to enhance the height and strength of your jaw before placing dental implants. It ensures your new smile has a strong, healthy foundation to thrive.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift is needed when there’s not enough bone to place implants without them protruding into the maxillary sinuses, which are located on either side of your nose. It’s typically used along with bone grafting to minimize the risk of any complications during and after implant surgery.
Not everyone interested in dental implants requires preliminary procedures, but it’s not uncommon. Your dentist will perform a visual examination and review a CT scan during your consultation to determine if you need any prep work before completing your smile.
About Dr. Geoffrey A. Iverson
Dr. Iverson earned his dental degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education to provide up-to-date services. He has provided comprehensive dental care to the Montgomery community since 1997 Dr. Iverson is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Minnesota Dental Association, and several other professional organizations. Call our office at (507) 201-6117 to schedule your consultation for dental implants.