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Coming to the decision to replace missing or damaged teeth with dental implants is a very exciting one. However, here at Emanuel Kontos, DMD, we encourage patients to use caution because not everyone is physically prepared for dental implants right away. Luckily there are supplemental procedures that can be utilized to assist patients in getting ready for their successful smile transformation. Read on to learn more about how these procedures could help you prepare for your own dental implant placement.
Patients With Gum Recession
Many patients choose a dental bridge because it is an easy option at a very reasonable price. When these patients want a more permanent, functional, and attractive solution to replace their missing teeth, the condition of their gum tissues is often insufficient for implant placement. Even under the best of circumstances, patients with dental bridges can experience significant gum recession after losing one or more teeth. This can leave areas of the tooth root exposed which can increase the risk of sensitivity, infection, pain, and tooth decay. So what is the solution?
How Can Tissue Grafting Help?
When tissue grafting is chosen, a piece of healthy gum tissue is harvested and a small incision is made. The graft material is then attached to the area that needs to be supplemented and the patient is sent home to heal. The graft then preserves soft tissue in the dental implant area and makes the gum tissues less likely to recede after oral surgery. Fortunately, this relatively simple procedure can be performed at the same time as the dental implant placement or before.
Patients With Bone Deterioration
Other patients choose removable dentures because they are also an easy and inexpensive option. Initially, patients can eat and smile normally, but the bone beneath the missing teeth begins to flatten out over time. And like patients with receding gums, when these patients elect to try implants, they learn they will also need supplemental procedures first.
How Can Bone Grafting Help Me?
Bone grafting procedures can now be performed in just a few short visits. Like gum tissue augmentation, special bone tissues are harvested and a small incision is made in the area that needs more volume. The graft material is then attached to the area that needs to be supplemented and the patient is sent home for a period of healing. The graft then adds proper density to the dental implant area to better support a dental implant. And after the graft area heals, patients can easily be evaluated for dental implant candidacy once more.
Come To Emanuel Kontos, DMD For Supplemental Procedures
Today, thanks to bone and tissue grafting, patients who were previously unable to get dental implants can now take advantage of all the benefits of permanent and natural-looking tooth replacement treatment. Now that you know a bit more about supplemental procedures, we suggest you take a look at how to choose a dental implant provider. Alternatively, if you live or work in the Tarpon Springs, FL area, call us now for a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Kontos.
