Getting dental implants is a common procedure, but it does involve some cutting and suturing of the gums. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect when getting implants:
Numbing the Area
The first step in the implant procedure is to numb the area around the implant site. Your dentist will give you local anesthesia shots to numb the area in and around the gums where the implant will be placed.
Making the Incision
Once the site is numb, your dentist will make a small incision in the gums to expose the bone. This incision is usually just a few millimeters long. It allows access to the jawbone, where the implant will be inserted.
Preparing the Implant Site
After making the incision, your dentist will drill a hole in the bone to prepare the space for the implant. This is where the implant’s screw will be inserted. The exact drilling technique depends on factors like bone density and implant type.
Placing the Implant
Next, your dentist will gently screw or push the implant into the prepared hole in the bone. Getting the implant situated just right within the jawbone helps ensure it integrates properly and lasts.
Stitching the Gums
Once the implant is in position, your dentist will stitch up the gum tissue over top of it. This protects the implant site while the gums heal. The stitches are usually dissolvable over time so no removal is required.
Healing Time
After the implant procedure, the gums will be sore and swollen for several days as they start to heal. Your dentist will likely prescribe medication to manage pain and keep the area clean. Within a week or two, the gums should feel much better.
Abutment and Crown
During the initial healing, the implant under the gums integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration. After several weeks to months, a follow-up procedure is done to attach an abutment and eventually the visible tooth crown.
Benefits of Implants
While the process does involve some cutting and stitching of the gums, implants provide many benefits, including:
- Replacing missing teeth without impacting adjacent healthy teeth
- Preventing bone loss in the jaw
- Restoring chewing and speaking ability
- Improving facial aesthetics with a natural-looking tooth
With proper oral hygiene and care, implants can last for decades and greatly improve dental function and confidence.
Conclusion
Getting dental implants does require some minor gum surgery to allow placement and integration of the implant. While cutting and suturing is involved, the incision is very small. With localized numbness and post-op care, the initial gum discomfort resolves within a few weeks. The long-term benefits of natural-looking, functional implant teeth greatly outweigh the short recovery period.