A Patient’s Guide to The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants provide a replacement for teeth that are missing or can’t be saved with restorative procedures. Superior to other dental prosthetics in a variety of ways, implants are considered the gold standard. If you’re considering dental implants or if you have an upcoming appointment to receive one or more implants, this guide will provide you with the information you need.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw bone to replace the natural roots of missing teeth. An implant is essentially a small titanium screw that fuses with the bone to form a secure anchor for a dental prosthetic. A single implant can replace one tooth by supporting a dental crown. Multiple implants can support a bridge or dentures to replace anywhere from a few to all of your teeth. Doctors at Kalmar Family Dentistry have relationships with local oral surgeons or periodontists in order to complete this process properly.
The Dental Implant Process
In most cases, the process for getting dental implants requires multiple steps over the course of months.
- Consultation and Evaluation. The process begins with a consultation and evaluation to determine if you are interested in dental implants and whether or not they are the best tooth replacement option for you.
- Preparatory Procedures. If the current state of your oral health is not ideal for dental implants, some preparatory procedures may be necessary. For example, if you have bone loss in your jaw, bone grafting may be required to regenerate bone tissue.
- Placement of the Implants. If or when your jaw is ready to receive it, your dental implant can be surgically placed. You may receive one or multiple implants in a single appointment.
- Adding the Abutment. Typically 4-6 months after the placement of your implant, it has time to fuse with the bone and the abutment can be added. This is the post that connects the implant to the prosthetic/crown. Prior to doing this an impression or digital scan is completed in order to communicate with the dental laboratory the exact position of the implant(s) and the surrounding teeth.
- Attaching the Permanent Prosthetic. A few weeks after, the abutment and the permanent prosthetic can be attached.
The Procedure for Placing an Implant
For the dental implant placement procedure, local anesthesia is used to numb the nerves. The implant is carefully and precisely placed in the jaw at the correct angle and depth. The gum tissue is closed over the implant to allow proper healing.
Recovery After Dental Implant Placement
After dental implant placement you may need 24-48 hours to rest and recover, depending on how you feel. It can take anywhere from 2-3 weeks for the gum tissue to fully heal. It is best to eat a soft diet for the first few days to a week after your dental implant placement procedure. Over the course of the next few months the implant will fuse with the bone to form a solid bond.
Completing Your Restoration
When the process of osseointegration (fusion with the bone) is complete, the abutment and permanent restoration can be attached, and you’ll have a fully restored smile with a natural appearance and function.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
Once a dental implant fuses with the jaw bone, it can last for the rest of your life. The prosthetic portion attached to the implant may need to be replaced over time as the wear and tear of chewing takes its toll. Although dental implants will not decay they can be affected by gum/bone problems, periodontal disease, and need to be maintained properly to get the longest life of them.
Are dental implants worth it?
Dental implants provide a look and function that rivals your natural teeth. They are anchored in your jaw for a secure hold, allowing you to eat the foods you enjoy.