The process of replacing a lost tooth with a dental implant involves many minor surgical procedures that are done in succession. The process is carried out in phases, and in between each stage, your body will have to go through a time of recovery for you to be able to continue on to the next step in the treatment. Let’s take a step-by-step look at the process of getting a dental implant.
Dental Implants: What Are They?
Dental implants can be thought of as little screw-like prostheses or anchors that are surgically implanted into the jawbone of a patient to replace missing teeth. Although the term “dental implant” most often refers to the prosthetic roots that are put in the jawbone initially, the procedure includes additional steps that need to be finished to be considered successful.
If any of the following apply to you, you could be a good candidate for dental implants:
- Ensure that there is a sufficiently healthy and strong jawbone to support the implant.
- Non-smoker
- You do not have any pre-existing problems that hinder your body’s capacity to recover from injuries or illnesses.
- If you practise high levels of dental and oral hygiene, you won’t need to worry about gum disease.
The Process of Getting a Dental Implant Step by Step
Dental Consultation
The first phase of dental implant treatment is a comprehensive consultation. Your dentist will collect a complete medical and dental history, digital pictures, and x-rays.
To determine whether dental implants are the correct choice for you, he or she must evaluate the quality of your jawbone and gums. Once your dentist has concluded the consultation, he or she will create a treatment plan that outlines the dental implant procedure in detail, as well as a cost estimate that outlines the prices of your tooth replacement and any relevant alternatives.
Bone Grafting
Some individuals, particularly those who have been missing teeth for a lengthy period, may not have sufficient healthy jaw bones to sustain an implant. This can arise if a missing tooth is not immediately replaced. Without tooth roots to stimulate the jaw, the jaw begins to degenerate.
This does not exclude the use of dental implants. If all other conditions are met, your dentist can propose a bone transplant to stimulate jawbone development. The quantity of existing bone will decide whether a small or substantial bone transplant is required. If you need a small graft, it can be feasible to do the surgery shortly before implant placement. If a significant bone transplant is necessary, it will likely be done separately, and you will have to wait many months before your implant can be put in.
Occasionally, your afflicted tooth can still be present in your mouth, and your dentist will need to remove it before placing dental implants. Implant placement is typically achievable following tooth extraction.
Positioning The Implant
Dental implant placement is done in a surgical operation. This is performed under anaesthesia, and our dentist must cut through the gum to access the jawbone underneath it. The jaw is bored with small holes, and the implant, which is often composed of titanium or zirconia, is fastened into place. Your dentist will suture the wound and provide you with recuperation instructions. Two to four months are required for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. During this phase, which is known as osseointegration, the dental implant unites with your body to become strong and durable.
Putting in Place the Abutment
After the tooth implant has healed completely, you will have to see the dentist again so that he or she may attach the abutment. This step also requires surgery, since your dentist will need to reopen the incision made during the first procedure to connect the abutments, which are extension components, to your dental implants. Following that, the incision will be closed with stitches, and you will have another period of recovery time.
The Process of Making a Dental Crown
It will be time to build the dental crown after your gums have completed the healing process and your dentist has expressed satisfaction with your progress. This is the portion of the dental implant that is exposed to the outside world and can be seen by other individuals. You will be provided with a crown to wear in its place until this can be done properly.
The Process of Getting Dental Implants, Including All the Possible Risks and Complications
Your body will have the time to mend and recuperate if you adhere to the procedure’s step-by-step instructions, and your dental practitioner will be able to keep an eye on you in case any dangers or difficulties arise. If you are prepared and your expectations are reasonable, we can help you get a step-by-step education on the process of getting dental implants. Please get in touch with Super Smile Dental if you would like to schedule a consultation in Cardiff.