What Does a Successful Dental Implant Procedure Look Like?

Have you been considering getting a dental implant but feel overwhelmed with all that you need to know? You’re not alone. A dental implant is an excellent choice for replacing missing tooth or teeth and can be a great long-term solution if done correctly. To help you understand more about this surgical procedure, let’s take a look at what’s involved in getting a dental implant.

 

What is a dental implant? 

A tooth implant is a prosthetic tooth root that is inserted into your jawbone to hold a bridge or replacement tooth. The implant itself is made from metal, usually titanium, and it eventually fuses with your jawbone to create a solid foundation for your new tooth or bridge. Implants are used to replace single or multiple missing teeth and are designed to match the colour of your existing teeth, so they blend in nicely.

 

How is a dental implant procedure done? 

 

The first step – Consultation and evaluation 

The first step in any dental implant surgery is for the dentist to evaluate the mouth and determine if a patient is a good candidate for an implant. During this evaluation, the dentist will take X-rays and CT scans of the jawbone and teeth to ensure that there is enough bone structure present in order to support an implant. If there isn’t enough bone structure, then additional steps may need to be taken in order for the patient to get an implant, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts.

 

The second step – Implant placement

After determining that the patient is a good candidate for an implant, the second step is for the dentist to place the titanium post into the jawbone. The post acts as the foundation for the new tooth and provides stability. Depending on how much bone structure is present, this part of the procedure may require local anaesthesia or IV sedation in order to minimise any discomfort that may be experienced during placement.

 

The third step – Attaching the abutment 

Once the post has been placed into the patient’s jawbone, it will need time to heal before anything else can be done with it (usually 4-6 months). Once healed, an abutment can be attached to the post, which will hold either a crown or bridge restoration in place. This restoration will be custom-made by the dentist so that it matches the other teeth perfectly. Finally, once everything is fitted properly and securely, the patient will have a brand-new smile!

 

 

Pain Management 

Dental implants can cause some discomfort during the installation process because of their placement into the jawbone and gum tissue. However, most patients report minimal pain throughout their dental implant treatment due to the use of local anaesthetic during surgery as well as medications prescribed for post-operative pain relief. Speak with your dentist about ways to manage any discomfort you may experience throughout treatment for best results.

 

What are the benefits of implants?

 

Improved oral health

When you have missing teeth, it can be difficult to properly floss and brush your teeth, making it easier for bacteria to build up and cause tooth decay. With dental implants, however, you don’t have to worry about that; they fit securely in your mouth like real teeth do and make it easier to keep the area clean and healthy. Plus, they don’t require any special maintenance or care beyond regular brushing and flossing.

 

Better aesthetics

One of the biggest advantages of implants is that they look just like your natural teeth! Unlike other tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges or dentures, dental implants blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth and give you a beautiful smile that looks completely natural. Plus, since they’re made from strong material that won’t wear down over time as traditional dentures do, you won’t have to worry about having to replace them every few years as you would with other tooth replacement options.

 

Long-term stability

Another major benefit of dental implants is their long-term stability. Traditional dentures may require periodic adjustments as your mouth changes over time; however, with dental implants, there is no need for such adjustments due to their ability to integrate with your jawbone over time. This means that once an implant is placed in your mouth, it will remain firmly in place for many years without any additional adjustments necessary!

 

Get a radiant smile at Carindale Family Dentist 

Implants are a viable way to replace missing teeth and restore functionality back into your mouth again. With adequate care and maintenance, dental implants can last many years and give you back full function in no time! With our years of expertise, you can be sure that we’ll deliver the desired results. We have a team of experienced dentists who will evaluate your dental health and come up with an ideal treatment plan to provide you with the brilliant smile you deserve!

Contact us now at (07) 3324 9172 or (07) 3324 9104 for an appointment.

 

 

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