Dental implant surgery

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces missing tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts, and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that function and look much like real ones. Dental implant surgery can be an alternative to dentures or bridgework that doesn't fit well.

How It Works[edit | edit source]

  • A dental implant is inserted into the jawbone.
  • Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, acting as a root for the new tooth.
  • Once fused, an abutment is placed on top of the implant to hold the new tooth.
  • Finally, the artificial tooth (or crown) is attached.

Benefits[edit | edit source]

  • Improved appearance.
  • Enhanced speech and comfort.
  • Easier eating.
  • Durability and convenience.

Potential Risks[edit | edit source]

  • Infection at the implant site.
  • Injury to surrounding structures.
  • Nerve damage.
  • Sinus problems (for implants in the upper jaw).

Recovery[edit | edit source]

After the surgery, patients might experience:

  • Swelling of gums and face.
  • Bruising of the skin and gums.
  • Pain or discomfort.
  • Minor bleeding.

Aftercare[edit | edit source]

  • Regular dental check-ups.
  • Good oral hygiene habits.
  • Avoiding hard and sticky foods for a few weeks.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • "Dental Implant Procedure." American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
  • "What to Expect." American Dental Association.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD