Do you feel embarrassed to smile because of the condition of your teeth, which you have been hiding?
Dental implants are like tooth replacement superheroes – they are strong, reliable, and always geared up to fight for your smile!
Consider how nice it is to say ‘Goodbye’ to flabby removable dentures and ‘Hello’ to snug and fixed natural dentures for eating, laughing and living with dignity.
However, when and how do these small structural wonders transform into actual working teeth?
The process might sound quite elaborate, but it is really quite easy and fun. Every single process, from preparation to the final implant, is one experience that is worth going through to get dental implants.
Then sit comfortably, leave it to us and follow us through each step to get that perfect smile, strong teeth, the possibility to bite and chomp on your favorite food and live your days to the fullest!
1.Initial Consultation and Examination
The journey towards getting dental implants involves seeing your dentist or oral surgeon for assessment. This appointment is important in establishing whether, in fact, one is right to go for the procedure.
What to Expect
Medical and Dental History Review
The dentist takes your medical and dental history with the intention of identifying any condition that may escalate the surgery. There are reasons that can affect bone healing and implant stability, such as uncontrolled diabetes and excessive smoking.
Oral Examination
Besides, you will undergo an intensive teeth, gums, and jaw bones check while also checking your tongue. The dentist will then assess the teeth for signs of periodontal disease, infection or bone loss.
X-rays and Imaging
Apparatuses like X-ray or 3D CT scans enable one to view the radiographic density structure and state of bones that also require implanting. If the issue of bone loss is detected, then more complex surgical interventions, such as bone grafting, may be needed.
Outcome
Your dentist will tell you about the other steps in the treatment plan, how long it might take to complete the treatment, which procedures are to be done and roughly how much everything would cost.
2.Preparatory Procedures (If Needed)
Before the implants are placed, it may be necessary to reshape the area to make the operation even more successful.
Common Preparatory Procedures
Tooth Extraction
If the tooth has a cavity or the enamel and dentin are severely eroded, the tooth has to be removed. Under some circumstances, implants can be installed right after the removal of the teeth.
Bone Grafting
It also includes the length of the implant and the size of the gap between the teeth, and if your jawbone has adequate mass to support the implant, a bone graft may be required. This is another weak area of the body, and thus, it is built from your bone taken from another part of the body or synthetic material.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift is often necessary for patients who require the implants to be placed in the upper jaw, vocal, or maxilla by creating additional bone below the sinus cavity.
3.Implant Placement Surgery
Finally, when your mouth is ready for the implant, the surgery to place the implant is performed. This technique entails the implantation of the titanium fixture into the jawbone and serves as an artificial tooth root.
The Process
Anesthesia
For comfort during the procedure, local anesthesia or sedation is used.
Incision
The surgeon then incisions the gum to get access to the jawbone.
Drilling
A hole is made through the bone so the implant can be placed into the desired area.
Implant Placement
The titanium implant is screwed or tapped down into the prepared site.
Closing the Incision
Gum tissue is then sutured over the implant site, and swelling is minimized without much discomfort.
Healing Period
Following surgery, there is a process known as osseointegration. The long-term success of implant therapy relies on osseointegration.
This is when the implant becomes fixed in the jawbone, providing support for the artificial tooth. Proper osseointegration takes typically at least 3-6 months of healing time.
4.Temporary Restoration (If Necessary)
When the implant is placed, a temporary prosthesis may be provided to preserve esthetics and function during the healing period. This is especially important for the anterior teeth.
Options for Temporary Restorations
Removable Partial Denture
A removable dental prosthesis that is worn for a short period of time.
Temporary Crown
Connected to the implant but constructed in a manner that does not bear any weight on the implant.
5.Abutment Placement
At this final stage, an abutment must be connected once the implant has bonded with the bone. The abutment is a short rod that connects the implant to the crown. It is an essential component of the implant.
The Procedure
Reopening the Gum
To reveal the implant, the gums are reopened.
Abutment Attachment
The abutment is screwed using a screwdriver onto the implant.
Healing Cap
Sometimes, a healing cap is positioned over the abutment to mold the gum tissue around it.
Healing Period
In most cases, gums may take up to two weeks to heal around the abutment.
Bottomline
Dental implant placement is a multi-step procedure requiring meticulous preparation, expert execution, and appropriate aftercare.
Although it may take a while, the benefits—a stunning, functional, and long-lasting smile—make the time commitment worthwhile.
You can ensure that replacing your teeth and regaining your confidence goes well by being aware of every stage and collaborating closely with your dentist.
See a reputable dentist like Belmont Dental Group, if you’re considering getting dental implants to start this transformative journey.
Belmont Dental stands out as a premier destination for cosmetic and family dentistry in Hamilton, New Jersey, serving the wider Mercer County community. With a focus on comfort and innovation, their cutting-edge facility is equipped with digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and advanced dental impression technology to deliver a smooth and tailored experience for all ages.
