Dental Implant Procedure, A Simple Guide
Are you considering a dental implant to restore your smile? Dental implants offer a permanent solution that can last a lifetime, unlike dentures that might not provide the stability you seek.
These implants are directly positioned into your jawbone, closely mimicking the natural look and functionality of a tooth replacement.
Dental Implant Procedure – A Simple Process
Typically, dental implant surgery is conducted as an outpatient procedure, progressing through stages with intervals for healing. The entire process spans several months. The majority of this duration is focused on recuperation and allowing for the development of new bone in the jaw.
The process of placing a dental implant involves multiple steps:
- Planning
- Damaged tooth removal
- Jawbone preparation (grafting), if needed
- Dental implant placement
- Bone growth and healing
- Abutment placement
- Artificial tooth placement
Initial Assessment
Your dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health to determine your suitability for a dental implant.
Not everyone is an ideal candidate due to the necessity of having sufficient healthy bone material to support the implant.
If there’s an inadequate amount of bone, your dentist might suggest alternatives like mini dental implants or bone grafting to enhance the jawbone at the site of the procedure.
Tailored Solutions
For those with multiple missing teeth, traditional dental implants might not be the only solution.
Alongside implant restorations, your dentist could recommend various procedures, including implant-supported dentures, based on your specific needs.
Bone Grafts
To fortify the healthy bone volume at the implant site, a bone graft might be suggested by your dentist. Typically, this graft is placed when the tooth to be replaced has been extracted, preserving the site for the forthcoming implant.
It might also be necessary after prolonged tooth loss causing bone deterioration. Different types of bone graft materials exist, and your dentist will discuss these options with you before the procedure.
Following placement, the bone graft requires time to heal before proceeding with the implant.
Implantation and Recovery
Your dentist will then proceed with the dental implant and possibly a temporary crown.
The procedure usually takes about an hour for a single implant. Discomfort in the initial days after the procedure can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Healing Period
Before permanent crowns can be affixed, your mouth needs time to heal. For most patients, this healing phase spans several months.
However, in some cases, it might take six months or longer for adequate jaw healing to complete the dental implant process. Your dental professional will monitor your progress and determine the timing for the final appointment.
Final Steps
At the last appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary crown, attach an abutment to the dental implant, and secure a permanent crown. With this step completed, the procedure concludes.
Your dentist may provide you with additional guidance on how to best care for your newly implanted tooth.