How an Oral Surgeon Performs a Tooth Replacement

Looking into your tooth replacement options? Read on to learn more. Tooth loss from decay, injury, or disease affects oral health and quality of life. Oral surgeons are the answer to this problem, offering highly effective tooth replacement options to restore dental function as well as aesthetic appearance. If you have a missing tooth, you should learn about the options and processes performed by oral surgeons for achieving successful dental restorations.

An overview of tooth replacement from an oral surgeon

The tooth replacement process starts with a consultation. During the appointment, the oral surgeon will evaluate the patient's oral health status and medical history. They will also discuss the objectives of the tooth replacement. Advanced diagnostic tools like X-rays or CT scans are often necessary to evaluate the jawbone and supporting oral structures.

This critical evaluation will help the professional develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include the tooth replacement option, complementary treatments, and the proposed treatment approach. This information will ensure the patient is comfortable and knows what to expect.

The tooth replacement process

Oral surgeons offer a range of tooth replacement options depending on the patient’s dental needs. The process for each method is embedded in a comprehensive treatment plan that may include:

Dental implants

For single-tooth replacements, the dentist will insert a titanium post into the jawbone to form the base of an artificial tooth. This process is followed by a healing process called osseointegration, and attachment of a custom-fabricated crown. The entire treatment often takes a few months, from the initial implantation to the placement of the final restoration.

Implant-supported bridges

Used to replace several adjacent teeth, this method anchors a dental bridge to implants instead of natural teeth. This option has increased stability and less impact on adjacent teeth. The oral surgeon will determine the number of implants based on the extent of tooth loss.

Dentures

For extensive tooth loss, full or partial dentures are made to fit the patient's mouth. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to implants implanted in the jawbone. This option offers a more secure fit than conventional dentures which rest on the gums.

If the jawbone is not dense enough to support implants, the oral surgeon may perform a preliminary bone grafting. This involves replacing the jawbone with bone from another body part or synthetic materials to provide a foundation for future implant placement. This effort makes dental implants an option for patients who would otherwise be ineligible.

The surgical process

The surgical technique used depends on the type of tooth replacement chosen but usually involves the placement of implants with local anesthesia or sedation followed by a healing period. Some patients may experience a little discomfort, bruising, and swelling following surgery. The dental professional will prescribe medications for comfort. They will also provide post-operative care instructions including diet modification and oral hygiene instructions for a successful recovery. Follow-up visits are essential to assess healing and ensure integration of the new tooth replacement.

Long-term benefits and impact on oral health

The long-term benefits of tooth replacement performed by oral surgeons go beyond the immediate restoration of dental function and aesthetics. These procedures help maintain oral health and help prevent problems associated with tooth loss, including:

• Preservation of Jawbone: Tooth replacement options such as dental implants stimulate the jawbone like a natural tooth root does. This stimulation prevents bone atrophy and maintains the shape and integrity of the jawbone.
• Alignment and Bite: Replacing missing teeth helps keep adjacent teeth in place so they do not move into the gaps. This preserves the bite and distributes chewing forces evenly, reducing wear and tear on natural teeth.
• Gum Health: Filling in the space left by missing teeth helps prevent food particles from getting trapped and causing gum disease. Tooth replacements promote healthy gums and decrease the risk of periodontal disease.

Choosing the right oral surgeon

The choice of an experienced and skilled oral surgeon is extremely important for successful tooth replacement procedures. Patients should consider the qualifications, specialized training, and experience of the oral surgeon are critical for getting optimal outcomes. Choose a surgeon who uses the latest technologies and practices in a modern facility. Additionally, researching patient feedback for an oral surgeon is a good idea, as it can offer insights into the surgeon's expertise, patient care approach, and results.

The bottom line

Tooth replacement addresses both functional and aesthetic aspects of tooth loss. Undergoing the procedure helps to restore improved dental health, confidence, and quality of life. Nowadays, patients have access to far more efficient, customized, and less invasive treatment options. If you are considering tooth replacement options, ensure you choose a qualified oral surgeon. During your appointment, you can ask about the available tooth replacement solutions to achieve optimal results.

Request an appointment here: https://www.centralcoastoms.com or call Wilson Oral Surgery at (805) 910-1213 for an appointment in our Santa Maria office.

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