Having a dental implant procedure provides a permanent way to address tooth loss. Not only does it help you to chew with comfort, but it also improves your facial harmony and confidence. Understanding how the dental implant procedure is done can help you to prepare for dental implant surgery so you cope better and heal faster. In this post, we are going to answer the question ‘how are dental implants done’ so you know exactly what to expect.
Understanding The Dental Implant Procedure
Perhaps the most important note about dental implant surgery is understanding that it is done in stages. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants takes time because your body needs a chance to heal between the stages. The stages are done in an outpatient procedure and an anaesthetic is used to make it as comfortable as possible. You can expect to see your dentist every few months before your procedure is completed.
In general, a dental implant procedure follows these steps:
- Tooth extractions (if required)
- Bone grafting or a sinus lift (if required)
- Surgical placement of the dental implants
- Placement of the abutment
- Placement of the dental crowns
How Are Dental Implants Done?
The dental assessment
Before you can move forward with dental implants you need to have a thorough assessment done. Your dental practitioner will check the state of your gums and teeth and take your full medical history to ensure you are a suitable candidate for dental implant surgery. Once you have been assessed, your dental practitioner will put a treatment plan and cost estimate together to plan your procedure.
Tooth extractions
If your teeth are damaged and decayed and they are still in your mouth, the first stage of your procedure will be tooth extraction.
Bone grafting and sinus lifts
If you have lost bone in your jaw, or your jaw is too soft, you may need a bone graft to strengthen it. Dental implants need to withstand the forces of biting and chewing in order to be successful and some patients may not have sufficient bone to support this. Once a bone graft is done, you will wait for a few months until your dentist confirms that sufficient bone growth has taken place.
Placing the dental implants
After injecting your gum with anaesthetic, your dentist will cut into the gum of the missing tooth. Then a hole will be drilled into your jaw, whereafter the implant will be surgically placed. The implant needs to fulfil the role of the missing tooth roots. The implant needs to be integrated into your jawbone to make it strong and stable. You will go through another healing period that will last for a few months while this happens.
Placing the abutment
The abutment is a connecting piece that is placed between the implant and the dental crown. In order to place it, your dentist must reopen the surgical site, and then close it around the abutment. Your gums will need another chance to heal after this stage.
Your dental crown
Once the implant structure is stable and strong, and your dental practitioner is satisfied with your healing progress, it will be time to place your dental crown. Your dental practitioner will take an impression of your teeth so that the new crown blends in naturally.
How Are Dental Implants Done: Skill And Planning
A dental implant procedure is a very precise treatment that requires a great deal of planning. It does take time but the end result is worth your investment and patience. For patients who continue to practice exemplary oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly, an implant could last for decades.
Unlike a dental bridge, it does not cause damage or wear to the adjacent teeth. And, unlike dentures, your tooth implant will not move around when you speak and eat. When your dental implant surgery is finished off with a beautiful crown, no one else will be able to tell the difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Is Dental Implant Surgery The Right Option For You?
By visiting a dentist that offers consultation, you will be able to determine if a dental implant procedure is the most effective way to replace your missing tooth. We recommend that you get a consultation at your local dental clinic so you can be assessed for suitability. If dental implants are not for you, your dentist can recommend possible alternatives.
To find out more about dental implants, how are dental implants done, or to book a dental consultation near you, please give us a call: (02) 8203 8760.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Everything to Know About a Dental Implant Procedure
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-procedure
Dental implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622
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