If you have one or more missing teeth, you may be eager to get dental implants. They are truly the best way to rebuild lost dentition! Before you can receive them, though, you might need to undergo one or more preliminary procedures, such as orthodontia, tooth extractions, gum disease treatment, or bone grafting. Why are these treatments often necessary? Continue reading below to find out.
Orthodontia
While it is often possible to undergo orthodontic treatment if you already have an implant, it is often better to get your teeth straightened before replacing your missing teeth. This can be especially important if your tooth loss has caused dental drift. In other words, your remaining natural teeth may have shifted into the empty spaces in your mouth, meaning that there might not be adequate room for implants. Invisalign or braces can help to make way for a complete and well-aligned smile.
Tooth Extractions
Certain teeth may need to be removed before you receive dental implants. This could include damaged teeth that cannot be repaired or teeth that would interfere with the placement of your implants. Removing these teeth creates the necessary space in your mouth and can promote the long-term success of your restored smile.
Gum Disease Treatment
If you have active gum disease, it may compromise the stability of your implant by weakening the surrounding tissues. Treating gum disease prior to the procedure helps to eliminate dangerous inflammation and infections, thereby providing a healthier environment for your implants and reducing the risk of implant failure.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting may be required if your jawbone lacks the density or volume to support dental implants. There are different types of bone grafts, including those that preserve the socket of a missing tooth, as well as sinus lifts and ridge augmentation. Your dentist can explain the details of whatever type of bone graft you may require.
In some cases, bone grafting can be performed at the same time as dental implant placement. In other cases, a waiting period of a few months is necessary between the two procedures.
A Positive Take on Preliminary Procedures
Although preliminary procedures can extend your total tooth replacement timeline, they can be a necessary step on your route to regaining a strong and complete smile. If your dentist informs you that you need one or more of them, you can be confident that they have your best interests at heart!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Erin Page and Wanda Saldaña provide comprehensive dental implant services in a welcoming, modern environment. Our team is also able to provide many of the preliminary procedures that contribute to dental implant success. To learn more about what may be involved in replacing your lost teeth, contact Capital Smiles in Schenectady at 518-374-0317.