Dental implants are a permanent and life-changing solution for people with missing or severely damaged teeth. The dental implant process is a detailed and complicated procedure. While the implant itself is only a small part of the overall treatment, understanding each step of the process is important for patients who are considering a dental implant as their restorative solution.
Step 1: Consultation and Examination
The first step of the dental implant process is to speak with your dental care provider about the options that are available to you. During a practice consultation or initial examination, your dentist or periodontist will review your oral health, and discuss the possible dental implant treatments that could meet your needs. They may take imaging, such as dental x-rays, to determine if you have enough healthy bone material and a suitable implant site to support a dental implant.
In a dental implant consultation, your dentist will ask a series of questions to gather essential information about your dental and medical history, lifestyle, and expectations. Here are some frequently asked questions that may arise:
- What is the reason for your tooth loss or the need for tooth replacement?
- Have you previously received any dental implant treatment?
- Have you experienced any oral health issues or complications in the past?
- Do you have any existing medical conditions that may affect the dental implant procedure or healing process?
- Are you currently taking any medications or supplements?
- Are you allergic to any materials commonly used in dental procedures?
- Do you have any concerns or specific expectations regarding the outcome of the dental implant treatment?
Step 2: Treatment Plan
Once your dental care provider has established that you are appropriate for a dental implant, they will work with you to create a custom treatment plan. Your treatment plan will include the details of the dental implant procedure, such as the type of implant, dental restoration, and necessary preparatory treatments so that your implant is successful.
Step 3: Preparatory Treatments
In some cases, preparatory treatments may need to be performed before the dental implant is placed. Preparatory treatments can vary depending on the type of implant needed, but may include bone grafting or periodontal treatments (such as dental cleanings and gum grafting) to ensure the success of the implant and surrounding tissues.
Step 4: Placement of the Implant
Once you have been approved for a dental implant, and any preparatory treatments have been completed, your implant will be surgically placed into the implant site in the jawbone. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and covered with a temporary crown.
Step 5: Osseointegration
After the implant is placed, it needs to undergo a process called osseointegration. During osseointegration, the implant will slowly bond with the surrounding healthy bone material. This process can take several months to complete, so don’t expect to see immediate results.
Step 6: Implant Abutment Placement
Once the implant has been successfully integrated into the jawbone, your dentist will place the abutment, or the device that connects the implant to the crown.
Step 7: Placement of the Dental Restoration
The next step is to place the permanent dental crown or bridge onto the abutment. Once the restoration is in place, you will have the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth.
Step 8: Follow-up Visits
Once the dental implant is in place, you will need to visit your dental care provider regularly so they can check the implant for signs of infection and other complications. Your dentist will also let you know if any additional treatments, such as bone grafting, are needed to help maintain a healthy jawbone.
Finishing Up Dental Implant Process
At the end of the dental implant process, you will be rewarded with a fully functional and captivating smile that will fill you with pride for years to come. As the dental implant journey involves a meticulous and intricate procedure, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your dental care provider. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification at every stage of the process, ensuring that you fully understand and maximize the benefits of your treatment.
To embark on your dental implant journey and discover the transformative power of this innovative solution, book a consultation with Madison Dentistry today or call 973-822-8003. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through the process, address any concerns you may have, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
