The Complete Process of Dental Implants — How to Prepare to Ensure the Best Possible Outcome?

Are you considering getting an implant to replace a missing tooth but aren’t sure what the process involves? In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at the series of steps involved in receiving and having a successful dental implant. From preparing for surgery to understanding recovery time and aftercare needs – this guide will provide all the information you need to be comfortable that you are making an informed decision about your oral health. So let’s get started!

 

What are dental implants?

Dental implants offer a permanent solution to missing teeth and provide a look, feel, and function quite similar to natural teeth.

A dental implant is a metal post or frame that is surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the missing tooth. It provides an anchor for the replacement tooth in order to make it just as secure as natural teeth.

Dental implants may be used to replace single missing teeth or multiple missing teeth with bridges or in conjunction with dentures for additional stability and retention. Those seeking durable and long-lasting restoration for missing teeth can consider visiting their dentist for an evaluation of whether dental implants are right for them.

 

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Let’s take a look.

 

Good oral health

The first step in determining if someone is an ideal candidate for dental implants is to assess their overall oral health. Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and other systemic diseases like diabetes can all have an effect on the success of dental implant placement. For this reason, dentists will typically require that the patient has adequate oral hygiene before proceeding with any implant treatment.

 

Adequate bone volume

In order for an implant to be successful, there must be enough healthy bone tissue to anchor it securely into place. When there isn’t sufficient bone volume available, extra dental procedures such as bone grafting may be required prior to placing the implant. If this is not feasible due to medical conditions or age-related issues, then another form of tooth replacement may need to be considered instead.

 

Healthy gum tissue

Healthy gums are essential when it comes to successful implant placement. If there is any gum disease present in the area where the tooth implant will be placed, it must be treated first before the dentist can move forward with treatment. Once the gums have healed completely from any periodontal treatment and are free from inflammation and infection, then the dentist can proceed with placing the dental implant securely into place.

 

What is the process of getting implants?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect from a dental implant procedure.

 

Evaluation and planning 

The first step in getting a dental implant is to have an evaluation with the dentist. During this evaluation, the dentist will assess the condition of a patient’s mouth and check for any underlying issues that could complicate the implant process. The dentist may take X-rays or use CT scans to obtain an accurate picture of the jaw bone structure and existing teeth. Once they have all the necessary information, they will work with the patient to create a plan for the placement of the implant and restoration of the area.

 

Dental implant surgery 

Once the plan is in place, and the patient is approved for surgery, the next step is for the dentist or oral surgeon to surgically insert the titanium post that serves as the foundation for the new tooth into the patient’s jawbone. This post will be placed in such a way that it fuses with the jawbone during a healing period called osseointegration. It takes approximately three months for osseointegration to occur, during which time the patient must be careful not to disturb the area where the implant was placed by avoiding certain activities like chewing hard foods or crunchy snacks on that side of the mouth.

 

Restoration 

Once osseointegration has occurred, and the jaw has healed completely, it’s time for restoration of the area around the new implant. The dentist will take impressions of both jaws and fabricate either a crown or bridge that fits perfectly over or around the post, depending on how many teeth need replacing. They may also use abutments – small metal posts – if the patient needs multiple crowns connected together in order to replace several teeth at once. The new appliance will be designed specifically for the patient, so it looks perfectly natural when worn in place of missing teeth or against existing teeth near it.

 

How long does the implant process take?

The entire dental implant process, from consultation to final restoration, can take anywhere from 3-6 months. This may vary depending on your current oral health and the complexity of your case, but in general, it takes 4-5 months for a successful dental implant procedure. During this time, you should expect several trips to your dentist’s office for evaluations.

 

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants also come with a wide range of benefits that can change your life for the better. Let’s take a look at what these benefits are.

 

 

Improved self-esteem and confidence

Having missing teeth can be embarrassing, and it can have an impact on your self-esteem levels. After all, you don’t want to be embarrassed about your smile when you meet someone new or pose for the camera. With dental implants, you’ll never have to worry about that again, as they provide you with a complete set of teeth that look like the real thing. This means you can go out into the world with confidence, knowing that you have beautiful teeth that won’t bring unwanted attention to yourself.

 

Improved oral health

Dental implants also improve your oral health in many ways. For starters, because they are held firmly in place by titanium posts implanted into your jawbone, they don’t require any special care or cleaning techniques; just brush and floss them like normal! Plus, dental implants help keep neighbouring teeth from shifting out of place, which is often caused by tooth loss due to decay or an accident. Finally, dental implants will keep your jawbone healthy as traditional dentures do not promote bone growth like dental implants do since they replace both the root and crown of each tooth lost.

 

Long-lasting solution

The best part about dental implants is that once they are placed in your mouth, they almost never need to be replaced again! That means no more visits to get new dentures every few years; once you get them implanted in your mouth, you can forget about them until it’s time for routine cleanings and checkups with your dentist! Plus, when cared for properly and regularly maintained with regular brushing and flossing routines, these implants will last a lifetime!

 

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants are considered a long-term investment in dental health, but many patients are understandably concerned about dental implant costs. Generally, the cost of a single dental implant can vary depending on factors such as the dental professional’s experience and skill level, the patient’s dental health, and any additional procedures, such as bone grafting, that may be necessary to ensure successful implant surgery. It is important to consider dental implants an investment in your dental health, and most dental professionals offer payment plans for their patients so that financial concerns do not prevent them from achieving their goals for their smile.

 

How to care for dental implants?

Let’s find out how you can ensure that your newly implanted teeth are well taken care of.

 

Daily oral hygiene routine 

Just like with natural teeth, it is important to practise proper oral hygiene when caring for dental implants. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush using fluoride toothpaste and floss once per day. This will help remove plaque and food pieces from around the implant, which can promote gum disease if left unattended. It is also important to schedule regular checkups with your dentist so that any potential issues can be addressed quickly and effectively.

 

Dietary considerations 

In addition to practising good oral hygiene habits, it is also important to consider what you eat when taking care of dental implants. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods, such as candy or ice cubes that could damage the implant or cause discomfort is recommended. Additionally, limiting sugary treats and sodas can help reduce the risk of developing cavities around the implant site. Foods high in calcium and phosphorus are especially beneficial as they help strengthen teeth and gums; yoghurt, fish, dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and grains are all excellent sources of these minerals.

 

Avoiding bad habits 

Certain bad habits—such as smoking—can increase your risk of developing gum disease or other complications associated with dental implants. Therefore it is strongly advised that you avoid smoking or chewing tobacco while caring for dental implants; if you currently smoke or use tobacco products, then now would be an ideal time to quit! This will go a long way towards preserving your health and maximising the benefits offered by your new smile!

 

Regular dental visits 

After getting a dental implant, it is very important that you make regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. During these dental visits, your dentist will be able to assess the condition of your implant and provide helpful tips on how best to care for it. Regular visits also help keep any potential problems with your implant from becoming more serious or costly down the line.

 

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implants are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, but there is often concern about whether the procedure is painful. While the patient may experience some mild discomfort during the implantation process, overall, it is a fairly comfortable experience. After the implant is placed, anaesthesia and pain medications can be used if necessary to minimise any potential discomfort. The healing period following dental implant treatment can vary greatly from person to person, but downtime after the procedure is typically minimal, and postoperative care instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider. Although this is ultimately dependent on your individual circumstances and degree of procedure complexity, dental implants offer an overall great level of comfort for patients.

 

Get affordable and quality dental implants at DDSS

Getting dental implants can help restore both your smile and confidence! Knowing what goes into this type of procedure can help make sure you are prepared to go through with it if it’s right for you. With the right care and maintenance, dental implants can last up to several years without needing replacement!

Do you want to get quality and affordable dental implants? Look no further! Our experienced team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing our old and new patients with the best care possible. Call us to start your journey towards your best smile!

Sydney CBD: (02) 8294 5812
Gosford: (02) 8294 8656
Eastwood: (02) 9299 8842
Tugerrah: (02) 8207 3164

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

 

 

 

References

What to know about dental implants
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327515

Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants

Calcium-Rich Foods: What to Eat for Healthier Teeth
https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/calcium-rich-foods-what-to-eat-for-healthier-teeth