If you are missing a tooth and you want your teeth to have a restoration, you might benefit from dental implants. This specific dental restoration can bring back the aesthetics and function of your teeth. But what exactly does the dental implant process look like? What does it involve?

What Are Dental Implants?

Before we dive head first into the dental process, let’s get to know dental implants first. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are made of titanium. The purpose of this is to provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth.

Dental implants are great solutions to give a long-lasting solution for tooth loss. They are typically designed to blend in with your natural teeth to make it look like it was not restored at all. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants don’t require nearby teeth to have adjustments, which makes them a preferred choice for many patients.

The Dental Implant Process

Now that we established what dental implants are and their purpose, let’s take a peek at their process.

1. Dental Implants Consultation

Initial Assessment

Begin your journey with a consultation with your dentist. At this time, there is not much going on yet other than assessing your oral health and medical history. Your oral goals will also be discussed with you. In a nutshell, your initial assessment is all the discussion takes place. This is also the best time for you to ask any questions you might have about the procedure.

Diagnostic Tests

Your dentist will perform a series of diagnostic tests before they put you in on a dental implant procedure. These might include X-rays, 3D imaging, and impressions of your teeth and gums. These tests will help your dentist see the condition of your jawbone and envision the implants’ placements.

2. Treatment Planning

Personalised Treatment Plan

A treatment plan will be made that is suitable to your condition. This plan is basically the blueprint of your treatment. This will have an outline of the steps of the implant procedure, including how many implants you need, the type of prosthesis, and the timeline for each phase of treatment.

3. Dental Implant Procedure

Preparing for Surgery

Before the actual implant surgery, your dentist will provide instructions on how to prepare. This might include guidelines on eating, drinking, and taking medications.

Placing the Implants

The first major step in the dental implant process is the surgical placement of the implants. Here’s what happens:

• Anaesthesia: The procedure begins by injecting local anaesthesia into your teeth to keep your experience comfortable and pain-free.
• Incision: Your dentist will make a small incision in your gum to expose the bone.
• Drilling: A small hole is drilled into the bone where the implant will be placed.
• Implant Placement: Once the hole is prepared and ready, the titanium implant will be inserted into the drilled hole.
• Stitching: Your dentist will make sure the implant is perfectly placed into the drilled hole. The gum will be stitched back over the implant, and you’re done! Your next goal is to heal the site.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

Recovery Period

After the implant is placed, healing is the next step. The healing period for dental implant procedures is known as osseointegration. This is when the implant becomes one with your jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation for the artificial tooth. This healing process can take several months. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions as well to have a comfortable healing journey.

In other cases, your dentist may provide temporary dentures or crowns to maintain your appearance while you heal.

5. Attaching the Abutment

Secondary Procedure

After osseointegration is complete, a minor procedure is performed to attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment is a connector that attaches to the implant and supports the artificial tooth.

During this step, your dentist will reopen your gum to expose the implant and attach the abutment. After this, you will need your gum tissue some time to heal.

6. Dental Implant Restoration

Custom-Made Crowns

The final step in the dental implant process is the restoration. While your gum heals around the abutment, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom restoration. This could be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your specific needs. Your dentist will also make sure your accessories match the colour and shape of your natural teeth.

Then, once the gum heals. your dentist will place it onto the abutment. This step completes the dental implant treatment, restoring your smile to its full functionality and appearance.

Smile Again with Dental Implants

Dental work can make people feel anxious and uneasy. But knowing the process, from consultation to recovery, can make you look at the journey with ease. While it involves multiple steps and a significant commitment, the results are well worth it. As they say, “It’s not about the journey, but the destination.”

Dental implants not only restore the functionality of your teeth but also enhance your confidence with a natural-looking smile. However, your dentist is still the best person to give advice on which restoration procedure suits best for you.

For trusted dental advice, seek our dentists from Blue Gum Dental. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the dental implant process. We want to ensure you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Book your appointment with our dental pros today!