What to Know About the Procedure for Dental Implants

If you are missing one or multiple teeth, you may be considering dental implants. Opting for implants is an increasingly common solution for replacing missing teeth.

The process of implantology can be intimidating, as it is a procedure that is still unknown to most patients.

In this article, we outline the main steps involved in getting artificial teeth.

The different steps to plan before dental implants

Professional Evaluation

An evaluation of your oral condition will be necessary to determine if implants represent an appropriate solution for you.

Your dentist will then develop a personalized treatment plan and perform a complete examination of your mouth, including X-rays and digital photos. They will also ensure that you have enough bone mass to perform the procedure.

In some cases, intermediate steps such as gum or bone grafts may be necessary to properly prepare the patient’s mouth to accommodate the implant. These interventions can be spread over a period of several weeks or even a few months. This way, the mouth is completely ready for the next stages of the treatment.

Dental Implant Placement

The first stage of surgery is the most invasive. It consists of inserting the implant into the jawbone, under the gum tissue. The implant acts as the root of the tooth. This step is usually done under local anesthesia, and the patient may also receive sedation to help ease the stress caused with this procedure.

Taking the necessary precautions to avoid the maxillary sinuses and certain nerves, the dental surgeon screws the implant into the bone, ensuring it is secure and level. The tissue is then sutured to prepare for the healing phase.

Following insertion, a healing period of several months is required, during which the implant integrates with the bone.

Installation of the Abutment

Once the tissues have healed, your specialist can install the abutment (some types of abutments are installed at the same time as the implant). This is a second piece, a pillar that will make the connection between the replacement tooth and the dental implant.

To install it, the surgeon must make an opening on the implant site to integrate the abutment. A healing period will again be necessary for its proper integration. The patient can then receive the dental prosthesis.

Placement of the Prosthesis

Once the healing process is complete, the dentist installs the final prosthesis on the abutment of the dental implant. This is meticulous work, and several sessions may be required in order to obtain the perfect fit for the patient’s jaw. This is a very important step to ensure that you get maximum benefits from your dental implant surgery.

Maintenance and Post-Surgery Follow-ups

Like natural teeth, a dental prosthesis must be well maintained in order to preserve oral health. A lack of oral hygiene can eventually lead to health problems like cavities, ulcers and even infections.

Frequent tooth brushing, flossing and periodic dental exams are good foundations. This will allow you to preserve your smile and the investment that your dental implant represents.

Your dentist will also make sure to carry out post-dental surgery follow-ups to confirm that healing is continuing properly.

Using dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth is an innovative and effective option to improve your oral health. 

Knowing the process will help you get a better idea of the implications of this procedure. An experienced dentist from our team at Sourire Concept Dental Center can help you make an informed and thoughtful decision.