Everything to Know About a Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jawbone. Over the course of several months, bone grows around the implant, holding it securely in place. The replacement teeth are then attached to the implant with a metal connector, filling the gap.
After the implant is placed in the jaw, it needs to be fixed before the crown is attached. During this healing – which can take two to six months – the surface of the implant fuses with the surrounding bone, a process called osseointegration. Once this process is over, the implant is stable enough to support one or more false teeth.
Types of dental implants
Endosteal (in the bone)
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant.
They usually resemble small screws. Endosteal implants are made from body-safe materials, such as titanium.
Endosteal implants are surgically inserted deep into the jawbone where they replace the roots of the teeth. An implant can be used to fix one or several teeth.
Subperiosteal (on the bone)
This type of implant is used when there is not enough healthy jawbone available to support the endosteal implant.
Subperiosteal implants are inserted under the gum but not drilled into the jawbone. They are placed above or on the bone instead of the bone.
Evaluation
In the first step, your teeth, gums and jawbone will be assessed. An important part of this initial evaluation is to determine whether you have a healthy enough jawbone to retain the implants.
If your jawbone is very thin or soft, a bone graft or other procedure may be suggested before starting the dental implant procedure. Your gums should also be free of periodontal disease.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more teeth. The number of teeth you are having replaced will determine the type and scope of the procedure you can expect.
Dental implant surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. It can be done under local anaesthesia, IV sedation, or general anaesthesia. Your specialist will tell you ahead of time what type of anaesthesia you will need.
Placing the implant
If you have an endosteal implant:
- An oral surgeon will cut away the gum, exposing the jawbone below.
- Deep holes will be made in the bone, where the implant post will be inserted.
- If you choose, a temporary, removable denture can be placed over the hole, for aesthetic purposes, until a permanent tooth can be attached to the implant
If you have a subperiosteal implant, your jawbone will not be drilled, and the implant post will be placed on or above the bone.
No matter what type of implant you get, you can expect to feel some discomfort and swelling afterwards. This may go on for several days. Most people find that they can resume their daily activities the day after having a dental implant.
Preparation of teeth and impression
When your gums have fully healed (after about four to six weeks), your dentist will take a new impression of your mouth. This will be used to create a model of your teeth onto which the dental technician will build your crown or bridge, taking care to achieve a natural finish that matches the rest of your teeth.
Fitting of crowns or bridges
When your new crown and bridge are ready, your dentist will cement or screw them onto the top of the dental implant, check that they fit and look good, and check that they bite down Your upper and lower teeth work comfortably together. You will usually have to return for several review appointments to make sure the implants are stable and working well, and that you are completely happy with the finished result.
Placing the tooth
Once treatment is complete, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth so that your permanent replacement tooth or teeth can be fitted. These can be fixed or removable.
If you opt for a removable denture, it will be mounted on a metal frame and attached to an abutment. This type of denture can be removed at home for daily cleaning.
If you opt for a fixed denture, it will be permanently cemented or screwed onto an abutment.
After the procedure is complete, tell your dentist if your mouth feels uncomfortable in any way or if you experience:
- ongoing discomfort
- severe pain
- is bleeding
- Swelling
- uneven or uncomfortable bite
- Your new teeth will look and feel natural. They should be taken care of with daily brushing and flossing. No special material is required to clean them. You can treat them the same way you treat your natural teeth.
Be sure to also see your dentist for regular checkups.
What would be the cost of Dental Implants?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the number of teeth you are replacing as well as the extent of each procedure. The location of the dentist’s office can also play a role.
Implants are meant to last for decades. For this reason, their sticker price is somewhat higher than other procedures that replace missing teeth, such as bridges or dentures.
Unlike bridges and dentures, dental insurance does not always cover the cost of dental implants. Check with your plan provider to find out what you can expect in terms of coverage.
Your dentist or dental specialist should give you an estimate or fixed cost before treatment begins. Some dental offices offer payment plans to make this easier.
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