When it comes to having dental implants placed, there is a lot that goes into the process. In order to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that you are able to take care of your new implants properly, it is important to be well informed about the procedure and aftercare. Here is a detailed look at what you can expect when getting dental implants, from start to finish.
But first, here’s a crash course on dental implants for people unfamiliar with the term.
What are Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are placed in the mouth to replace missing or damaged teeth. The implant itself is a small screw that is placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement for the tooth root. Once the implant has been placed, an artificial tooth (or crown) is then attached to the implant, filling in the gap in your smile.
Now that you’ve known what dental implants are, let’s take a more in-depth look at the dental implant procedure, as well as what you can expect in terms of aftercare.
What is the procedure for getting dental implants?
The first step in getting dental implants is to consult with a dental implant expert near you to see if you are a good candidate for the procedure. During this consultation, the dentist will examine your mouth, and X-rays or a CT scan may be taken to get a better look at the bones in your jaw. The dentist will also examine your teeth properly along with your dental habits to determine if you’re eligible for dental implants.
To be eligible for implants, you must have healthy gums and enough bone density in your jaw to support the implant. If you do not have enough bone density, you may need to undergo a bone grafting procedure before implants can be placed.
Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate for implants, the next step is to have the implant placed. The dentist will perform a surgical procedure to place the implant in your jawbone using the following steps.
1. Damage Tooth Removal
The first step in the dental implant process is to remove any damaged or decayed teeth. This is typically done using local anesthesia to numb the area and keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
2. Jawbone Preparation
Once the damaged teeth have been removed, the next step is to prepare the jawbone for the implant. This usually involves making a small incision in the gum tissue in order to expose the bone. A drill will then be used to create a small hole in the bone where the implant will be placed. In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary in order to provide sufficient support for the implant.
3. Dental Implant Placement
Once the jawbone has been prepared, the next step is to place the dental implant. The implant will be placed into the hole that was created in the jawbone during the jawbone preparation stage. After the implant is in place, the gums will be stitched up and allowed to heal.
It typically takes around 6-8 weeks for the implant to fuse with the bone before the next step in the process can take place. During this time, it is crucial to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant as this can cause it to fail.
4. Abutment Placement
After the implant has had time to heal and fuse with the bone, the next step is to place the abutment. The abutment is a small connector piece that is used to attach the artificial tooth to the implant. The gum will be reopened, and the abutment will be placed on top of the implant. Once the abutment is in place, the gum will be stitched up around it.
5. Artificial Tooth Placement
The final step is to place the artificial tooth, or crown, on top of the abutment. The crown is made to match your natural teeth in shape and color and is meant to blend in with your smile. Once the crown is placed, the dental implant process is complete.
Now that you know what to expect from the dental implant procedure, let’s take a look at some aftercare tips to help you keep your new implants in tip-top shape
Dental implant aftercare tips
Here are some aftercare tips to help you keep your dental implants in excellent shape.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
One of the most important things you can do to care for your new dental implants is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash as needed. It is also essential to avoid injury and trauma to the mouth, as these can increase the risk of implant failure.
- Eat a Balanced Diet
Another important aspect of aftercare is to make sure that you eat a balanced diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and avoiding sugary and acidic foods.
- See Your Dentist Regularly
It is also essential to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This will help ensure that your implant is healing correctly and that there are no problems with the artificial tooth.
- Avoid Chewing on Hard Foods
It’s important to avoid chewing on hard foods with your new dental implants during the first few days and weeks. This includes things like ice, hard candy, and nuts. This is because chewing on hard foods can damage the implant or the artificial tooth.
- Avoid smoking and use of tobacco products
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure, so it is vital to avoid these habits.
These are just a few aftercare tips to keep in mind after you have dental implants placed. Following these tips will help ensure that your implants last for many years to come. Nevertheless, if you have any pain or discomfort, be sure to contact an experienced dentist near you.
Common questions asked after dental Implant treatment
Here are some common questions that are asked after dental implant treatments
1. How long will it take for my new teeth to feel normal?
It might take several weeks or even months before your new teeth will feel normal. However, once they do, you might not even remember that you had lost teeth in the first place.
2. What foods should I avoid eating?
You should avoid any hard or chewy foods during the first few days as these can damage the implant or artificial tooth.
3. Should I still see my dentist regularly?
Yes, you should see your dentist at least every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup.
4. When can I brush my new teeth?
You can brush your new teeth as soon as they are placed. Just be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid putting too much pressure on the teeth.
5. How long will the dental implants last?
With proper care and oral hygiene, dental implants can last for many years. However, it is essential to note that they are not permanent and may need to be replaced at some point down the road.
Bottomline
Overall, dental implants are a very safe and effective way to replace missing or damaged teeth. They offer several benefits, including improved oral health, increased self-confidence, and a more natural-looking smile. Additionally, they can also help preserve the strength of your jawbone and prevent tooth loss.
Nevertheless, if you are considering dental implants, be sure to consult with a professional dentist at Shallowford Smiles to see if they are right for you.