Today, most practitioners consider dental implants the gold standard for tooth replacement. Implants look and feel natural, enabling patients to smile, talk, and eat normally.
Many patients may feel intimidated by receiving dental implants, but the procedure is less complex than you may believe. This blog will explain the dental implant procedure and share how these appliances work to improve your oral health,
The Dental Implant Procedure
Step 1: Consultation
The first step in receiving implants is meeting with your dentist. You and your dentist will discuss your implant needs and how you would benefit from the procedure. You can ask questions and become informed before making your final decision.
Your dentist will take diagnostic images to determine your jawbone health before proceeding. If you lost bone mass due to a missing tooth, you can receive a graft from an oral surgeon, as in step 3 below.
Step 2: Tooth Extraction
If you have an existing damaged tooth, the tooth will need extraction. Sometimes, your dentist can extract the tooth and place the implant post on the same day.
Step 3: Bone Grafting
If you lack sufficient jawbone mass to place an implant post, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon for a bone graft.
A graft is a straightforward procedure that involves inserting a ground bone material in the jawbone. As the graft heals, the natural bone material grows around it like a scaffold. After healing, your jawbone will be ready to accept the implant.
Step 4: Implant Post Placement
Placing the implant post is a simple procedure. The dentist uses a unique tool to make an opening in the bone to insert the small titanium anchor. Over time, the anchor will bond with the bone in osseointegration, creating a rock-solid base for the implant.
Step 5: Abutment Placement
After the implant post heals, the dentist will place an abutment or cap on top. The dentist will secure the gum around the abutment to create a base for the dental crown.
Step 6: Crown Placement
The final step involves placing a natural-looking crown to replace the tooth. The crown will last for several years before needing replacement.
Caring for Your Dental Implant
Taking care of a dental implant is an easy process. Treat your new implant like a healthy natural tooth by brushing and flossing. Ensure you keep all dental appointments to check the health of your implant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Are dental implants removable?
Single-tooth dental implants are not removable. The titanium anchor bonds with your jawbone and may last a lifetime. Certain types of implant-supported dentures are removable for cleaning.
How would a dental implant improve my oral health?
Food and plaque may collect if you have a gap left by a missing tooth. This debris can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Missing teeth also cause their neighbors to slide out of place, disrupting tooth alignment and further endangering oral health. Dental implants keep teeth in their proper places and prevent these problems.
Call Carmel Dental Associates
You may be interested in discussing implants if you have a missing or damaged tooth. Please call our Carmel, NY, office at 845-225-2224 to schedule a consultation today.