![\"Dental](\"https:\/\/www.smilesofstyle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/AdobeStock_165558214__1561996892_71548-300x182.jpg\")
<\/a>Once you lose a tooth for whatever reason, your dentist may recommend getting dental implants in Massapequa. If you\u2019re hearing about the procedure for the first time, you might have misgivings. After all, doesn\u2019t a metal post in your jaw sound uncomfortable? Fortunately, there\u2019s no reason to be nervous. Here\u2019s what you need to know about dental implants and how they\u2019ll feel in your mouth.<\/p>\n
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A dental implant serves as the \u201croot\u201d for a prosthetic tooth or teeth, such as single crowns, dental bridges, or dentures. Surgery is used to place a small metal post into the jaw, where over time it will naturally fuse with the bone due to a natural process known as osseointegration.<\/p>\n
Anesthesia is used to keep patients as comfortable as possible during surgery. Some practices offer IV sedation for patients with particularly high levels of dental anxiety.<\/p>\n
After the surgical step is complete, you may experience some pain and discomfort, but this will fade over time and can be controlled with ibuprofen and other medications. Bleeding within the first 24 hours is normal; you\u2019ll need to bite down on a gauze pack until it stops. (You\u2019ll need to replace the gauze pack every hour if the bleeding hasn\u2019t stopped by then.) Some swelling might occur for a couple of days as well, but you can keep it down with ice packs. Your dentist in Massapequa can give you other care instructions.<\/p>\n
Having an implant might feel strange at first, especially while eating; however, you\u2019ll adjust to the feeling over time. Many patients have stated that once they got used to them, their implants felt a lot like their natural teeth. Some people have concerns about tasting the metal in implants, but since the post is below the gumline, this isn\u2019t an issue.<\/p>\n
Because the metal is below the gumline and is topped with a prosthetic that\u2019s custom-designed to blend in with the natural teeth, casual observers won\u2019t be able to tell the difference. The result is a smile that looks and feels natural while restoring functionality to the mouth. Additionally, implants prevent bone loss by stimulating the jaw, allowing you to maintain your facial structure and retain a more youthful look.<\/p>\n
Speak with your dentist about options for tooth replacement; each patient is going to have different needs, and preexisting conditions such as advanced bone loss can affect the chances of a successful implant. If you do get implants, try to find a practice that can manage the entire process, including extraction, placement and restoration; it will all go much smoother with a professional who\u2019s been with you the entire way!<\/p>\n