If you’re considering getting a dental implant, it’s important to know the steps involved in the procedure. Here is a step-by-step guide to dental implant procedures so that you can have all the information before making an informed decision.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a lightweight and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They involve placing a small titanium post directly into the jawbone, where it eventually fuses with the bone to provide an artificial tooth root. The semi-permanent implant acts as an anchor for a variety of dental products, such as bridges, crowns, and dentures. Implants are becoming increasingly popular among patients with missing teeth as they are easy to take care of, remain secure even when eating or speaking, and can last many years when properly taken care of.
What is the process of placing dental implants?
Consultation
The first step of dental implant surgery is to meet with your dentist and discuss your goals and expectations. Your dentist will review your medical history, take X-rays of your mouth, and perform an oral exam to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
If you are approved for the procedure, you will then have an impression taken of your mouth so that custom-made implants can be made just for you.
Surgical placement
The next step involves surgically placing the dental implant post into the jawbone. This is done under local anaesthesia to ensure that the patient does not feel any pain during this part of the dental implant treatment process. Afterwards, stitches may be used to close up the gums around where the post was inserted in order to help healing occur faster. It may take several months for the implant post to completely heal and integrate with the jawbone before moving on to the next step of the process.
Abutment placement
Once the implant has healed and integrated with the patient’s jawbone, it is time to place an abutment on top of it. An abutment helps connect the new prosthetic teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures) with the implant post that is now firmly embedded in the jawbone. This allows for a seamless connection between these two components so that they function together effectively as if they were one piece. The dentist will make sure that everything fits properly before moving on to the next step in this process.
Final restoration
In this final step of the dental implant procedure, custom-made prosthetic teeth (crowns, bridges or dentures) are attached to their respective abutments using specialised hardware or cement, depending on what type of restoration is being used. Once these restorations are securely attached in place, the patient will have a fully functional replacement tooth that looks natural and feels comfortable when speaking or eating food! Dental implants can last for decades if taken care of properly with regular brushing and flossing habits as well as visits to the dentist regularly for checkups and cleaning sessions. With proper care, dental implants can provide years of usage without needing any additional adjustments or replacements!
How to care for dental implants?
Daily hygiene
Daily hygiene is essential when it comes to taking care of your dental implants. Brushing two times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is necessary for removing plaque buildup around the implant and the gum line. Flossing at least once every day is also important for getting rid of food particles stuck between your teeth and gums. You may also want to consider using an interdental cleaner or water flosser specifically designed for cleaning around implants.
Regular visits to the dentist
Just like regular teeth, dental implants require regular checkups from the dentist in order to ensure they are functioning properly. During these visits, the dentist will assess the condition of the implant, check for any signs of infection or wear, and make sure that you are following proper hygiene habits. Regular cleanings can help prevent plaque buildup, which can cause gum disease and other issues down the road.
Avoid damage to the implant
It’s important to avoid hard or chewy foods such as ice cubes or hard candy that could cause damage or breakage to the implant itself. Habits, such as clenching your teeth, can also put additional stress on the implant, which could lead to more serious issues down the road, so it’s important to avoid these habits as well, if possible.
Benefits of tooth implants
Functionality and comfort
One of the major benefits of dental implants is that, once installed, they function just like natural teeth. This means that you won’t have to worry about taking them out for cleaning or having any special maintenance procedures done on them. Additionally, because dental implants are securely attached to the jawbone, they are far more comfortable than removable dentures or bridges.
Appearance and self-confidence
Another key benefit of dental implants is that they look and feel like natural teeth. With proper care, implant-supported crowns (artificial teeth) can be made to match your existing teeth in both colour and shape, so no one will know the difference when you smile (unless you choose to tell them). This means that not only will your mouth look great, but also that your self-esteem will get a boost as well! Plus, with improved confidence comes the increased motivation to take better care of your new smile by maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily and flossing regularly.
Preservation of jawbone structure and improved oral health
Dental implants also help preserve the structure of your jawbone, which helps maintain its strength over time. This is because when there isn’t anything stimulating it—like a tooth—your jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of use. Furthermore, since dental implants act as artificial roots for replacement teeth, other teeth don’t have to be altered in order for them to fit properly—which results in improved oral health overall!
Illuminate your smile with the help of Carindale Family Dentist!
With Carindale Family Dentist, you’re guaranteed to get the most advanced dental implants available. Our team of experienced dentists and staff are committed to providing personalised care using the most up-to-date techniques. We understand the importance of your smile, so you can always trust that we’ll give our very best in restoring and maintaining its beauty. Our reliable services don’t stop there – with Carindale Family Dentist, you’ll feel like family while receiving quality treatments tailored to your needs!
Call us at (07) 3324 9172 or (07) 3324 9104 to book your consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants
What to know about dental implants
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327515