Dental implants are a tooth replacement option that involves a surgical procedure, unlike other teeth replacement options. This treatment is composed of three major components—the titanium screw, abutment, and crown.
When someone gets dental implants, their doctor will follow the appropriate step-by-step tooth implant process to ensure that their new tooth will function properly. The procedure is separated into several steps and depends on the patient’s needs and jawbone’s condition.
Initial Checkup
Before anything else, our doctors will have to do a comprehensive dental examination. This will help the doctor identify the patient’s jawbone density and the type of dental implant they need. This step includes x-rays, taking impressions, and other things to make the implant look natural. The patient will also learn if they’ll need additional procedures before the doctor puts the implant.
Additional Procedures
If the patient still has a damaged tooth that needs to be removed before the surgery, the dentist will extract it. Some patients who don’t have good bone density may need to undergo bone grafting. This process helps improve bone quality and ensures that the surgery will be successful. If the person undergoes this procedure, they need to wait for the bone to heal first.
Implant Placement
This is the first step of the actual dental implant procedure. Here, the doctor will expose the bone by cutting into the patient’s gums. The dentist will then use a small drill to create a hole in the bone where the titanium screw will be placed. Once the implant is in position, the area will be left to heal for at least two months. This healing period allows osseointegration to start.
Abutment Placement
Once healed, the doctor will put an abutment on top of the implant. This piece will connect the titanium screw to the crown and extends above the patient’s gums. Once attached, the patient will have to wait for at least two weeks for the gums to heal. After that, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth.
Crown Placement
Once the dental technician creates a custom dental crown, it will be attached on top of the abutment. This will be the only visible part of the implant. The patient won’t have to worry since the artificial crown is made to look natural. In this last step, the person may choose from a permanent or removable implant.
Post-Surgery Care
After the procedure, it is normal to experience discomfort. To help alleviate the pain, the doctor will prescribe medications such as antibiotics. It is also important for the patient to eat soft food to avoid damaging the implant. The person should also remember to practice good oral hygiene.
Replace Your Missing Teeth
If you want to ensure that you receive the proper care before, during, and after the tooth implant process, contact Affordable Smiles! We take care of our patients and make sure that we only give high-standard services. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation!