Are you considering getting dental implants? This is an excellent decision if you’re missing one or multiple teeth and want to regain your confidence. The tooth implant process is simple and has a high success rate. You can find out more and get a free consultation at your local dental clinic. But, you should know a few things before you start.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss as they look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. So, what exactly is a dental implant? It’s a small titanium post that is placed in the jawbone to act as a replacement for the root of a natural tooth. Once in place, dental implants can be used to support dental crowns, dental bridges or dentures.
The dental implant procedure takes place in two stages, with several months elapsing between the dental implant surgery and attachment of the artificial tooth (or teeth).
Implants offer a permanent solution that does not require any special care. Unlike other tooth replacement treatments, dental implants won’t need replacing and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
What are the main steps in the tooth implant process?
There are three main steps in the dental implant procedure.
- Consultation, examination and planning
The consultation, examination and planning part of the implant process is crucial as this determines whether you are a suitable candidate. Here is a look at some of the questions you can expect and what the answers can mean for your implant treatment.
- What are your goals for treatment?
This will help the dentist determine whether dental implants are suitable for what you want to achieve.
- What is your medical history?
This is important because certain medical conditions can affect the success of dental implants (more on this later).
- What is the status of your oral health?
You will need a clean bill of oral health before the dental implant procedure begins. So, if you have tooth decay or active gum disease, the dentist will treat these first.
The dentist will do a physical examination of your mouth. They will also take X-rays and possibly a CT scan to assess your jawbone. The dentist will use this information to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants and to develop a treatment plan. If you are suitable, impressions are made of your teeth and sent to a laboratory where your artificial tooth is made-to-measure.
The next stage during the tooth implant process is dental implant surgery, which the dentist will schedule at a mutually convenient time.
- Dental implant surgery
The dental implant surgery is carried out in the dentist’s office under a local anaesthetic, although conscious sedation may be offered if you are nervous about the procedure. It usually takes about an hour, and if you have had a local anaesthetic only, you should be able to drive yourself home afterwards. However, it may be preferable to have someone else drive you.
After surgery, you’ll need to take it easy for a few days and follow your dentist’s instructions on how to care for your mouth. You may also need to take pain medication and antibiotics.
During the healing process, the dental implant fuses with the jawbone (osseointegration) to provide a secure base on which to mount an artificial tooth.
- Completion of Dental Implant Procedure
You will return to the dentist three to four months after dental implant surgery to have your new artificial tooth attached. This straightforward procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic that finalises the tooth implant process.
Am I A Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?
Although not impossible, some factors may be detrimental to the success of dental implants, and you should discuss these with a dentist that offers free consultation appointments at our clinic.
Chronic medical conditions
Chronic medical conditionsChronic medical conditions can have a significant impact on the success of dental implants. The most common chronic conditions that can adversely affect implant success are diabetes, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disease. They can make it more difficult for the body to heal from surgery and exacerbate infection that can lead to implant failure.
While these conditions can make implants more challenging, there are many cases where successful implantation can still be achieved. The key is to work closely with your implant dentist to ensure that all potential risks are considered during the process.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition characterised by the grinding or clenching of teeth. It can occur during the day or at night, and it can have a number of effects on your teeth, gums, and jaw.
It is a relatively common condition and is more likely to occur in people under a lot of stress. It can also be aggravated by certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking or drinking alcohol.
The nature of the condition is that it can place undue stress on the teeth and dental implants, weakening and damaging them. If you think you may have bruxism or are considering a dental implant procedure, then it is important to speak to a dentist about your options. Sometimes, wearing a mouthguard at night can help to reduce the friction of your teeth grinding together to prevent damage.
Smoking
One of the most significant risks is implant failure due to infection. Infection is more likely to occur in smokers because smoking inhibits blood flow and impairs the body’s ability to heal following surgery.
Additionally, there is a more significant failure rate of dental implants in smokers than in non-smokers. So, if you want a successful outcome to your dental implant procedure, it is best to quit.
The Takeaway
The tooth implant process is thorough but leads to a successful outcome. Schedule a free dental consultation near you with one of our experts at a no Gaps dental clinic near you. Contact us on (02) 9159 6237 today.
References
WebMD: Preventing tooth decay
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-decay-prevention
Healthline: Gingivitis (gum disease) overview
https://www.healthline.com/health/gingivitis
Nature: How do different levels of smoking affect dental implants?
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41432-021-0155-5