If you're planning to get dental implants, you are probably a little nervous, especially if this is your first time. But worry not. To help put your mind at ease, this article will give you a good idea of what you can expect during a typical dental implant preparation and installation procedure.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant procedure varies depending on the type of dental implant and your unique condition. That said, a typical dental implant procedure will look something like this:
Step 1: Evaluation
As a first step, your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your jawbone density and mass to ensure dental implants are appropriate for you. Next, you will discuss what the procedure will involve and all your medical conditions and medications. The dentist will also answer any questions you may have.
If you're satisfied with the explanations and ready to proceed, the dentist will take impressions of your gums and teeth so that a replica of your smile can be created.
Step 2: Extraction of the Tooth
If you have any tooth that needs extraction, it'll be extracted before the dental implant surgery begins. During this step, the dentist will first anesthetize you and use a periotome and a dental elevator to loosen the tooth from the gum tissues. When the tooth is loose enough, it's then pulled out using forceps.
Step 3: Dental Implant Placement
This is the point where the titanium dental implant posts will be inserted into your jawbone using a special drill and tools. After the implant posts are added to your jawbone, the gum is stitched up, and the osseointegration phase begins. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months.
Step 4: Abutment Placement
If the titanium dental implant posts have fused with the jawbone and are stable enough, the top part of the implant is added. This part is called the "abutment." The abutment is the part that will hold the new tooth's crown.
Step 5: Crown Placement
After the dental implant has healed, the dentist will add a custom-fit crown to the abutment.
That's it! The dental implant procedure is done, and you'll be ready to head home.
Is There Any Pain?
- In a simple procedure where the dentist removes a single tooth and does no bone grafting, the pain will be minimal or non-existent.
- In a moderate procedure where the dentist extracts two or more teeth but performs bone grafting, swelling, bruising and mild pain is to be expected. The pain and discomfort shouldn't last longer than two weeks.
- In a complex procedure where the dentist extracts multiple teeth and performs bone grafting, pain and discomfort are expected to last relatively long. Your dentist will recommend you maintain a diet of softer foods for up to six weeks.
Aftercare Tips
After the dental implant surgery, it is essential to keep the following tips in mind to help your recovery:
- Get enough rest: Taking it easy and resting will give your body the time it needs to heal itself after the procedure.
- Stick to soft and nutritious food: Getting enough nutrient-rich food will assist your body during the healing process. In addition, eating soft foods will ensure the area of surgery doesn't get irritated.
- Maintain a good dental hygiene routine: Keeping your dental implant clean and well maintained can reduce the risk of infection.
Are you thinking of getting dental implants? Urban Dental Studio is here for all your dental implant needs. Feel free to contact us today.
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