Dentists may use a dental implant to replace tooth roots with metal posts. That way, they can restore missing or damaged teeth with artificial ones. This treatment can offer patients an alternative to uncomfortable dentures or ill-fitting bridgework. If you are interested in having a dental implant, you might be wondering about the step-by-step procedure. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery.
Step 1: Evaluation and Preparation
Before undergoing a dental implant procedure, you first need a comprehensive medical evaluation. This involves a thorough dental examination, dental X-rays, 3D images, and creating models of the teeth and jaw. Your dental specialist will review your medical history. That also includes any medications or conditions that may affect the surgery. If necessary, antibiotics might be prescribed to prevent infection.
Step 2: Placement of the Dental Implant
During the surgical procedure, your oral surgeon will make an incision to expose the jawbone. The surgeon will then drill into the bone to securely position the dental implant’s metal post, which will serve as an artificial tooth root. Following the dental implant placement, you may need a temporary denture to maintain your appearance and assist you with chewing.
Step 3: Osseointegration and Healing
Osseointegration is a crucial phase in the dental implant process. Over several months, the jawbone naturally fuses and integrates with the dental implant surface. This ensures a solid foundation for the artificial tooth. Proper healing and bone growth are essential to the long-term success of the procedure.
Step 4: Placement of the Abutment
Once osseointegration is complete, the placement of the abutment is the next step. The abutment connects the dental implant to the artificial tooth, providing stability and support. This minor surgery typically requires local anesthesia. In some cases, the abutment placement is done simultaneously with the implant placement. This eliminates the need for an extra surgical step.
Step 5: Creation and Attachment of the Artificial Tooth
The healing period takes approximately two weeks. After that, the dentist will take impressions to create a realistic-looking artificial tooth, also known as a crown. The choice of removable or fixed artificial teeth depends on the patient’s preferences. Removable options resemble conventional dentures and can be easily detached for cleaning. Fixed options, on the other hand, are permanently affixed to the implant abutment, which ensures a stable and seamless fit.
Are You Interested in Dental Implants?
Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure. While implants can restore a patient’s full chewing power, remember that this treatment is not suitable for everyone.
The dentist may not recommend it to you if you have an underlying health condition, such as diabetes or leukemia. Furthermore, you may not be advised to have a dental implant if you are a smoker. Studies show that smoking may slow down the healing process.
To find out more about dental implant procedures, visit Progressive Dental at our Matteson, Illinois, office. Also, you can call us at 708-980-0110 to book an appointment today.
