If you’re planning to go for a dental implant, you need to understand the nitty-gritty to make informed decisions. The first thing to put into your mind is that the procedure you get depends on the dental implant you need and your goals. Here is a guide for a successful dental implant.
Plan and Prepare
Preparing for the procedure earlier will make the implant successful. It will help you avoid anxiety and fear during the procedure. First, begin by looking for a doctor who specializes in dental implants.
Remember, there may be hundreds to thousands of dentists around you, and that is why it is imperative to do due diligence and hire an experienced and qualified specialist.
Initial Consultation
Once you’ve identified a dentist, the next step is to book an appointment for a free consultation. The specialist will examine your medical history and determine whether you’re a candidate for an implant. This is because some patients may need medical attention due to underlying issues before undergoing the done-in-one implants.
Your dentist will tell you if you’re eligible for the implant and advise you on the next step to take. You may need to undergo a 3D scan and X-ray for a clear view of your jaw and teeth by the dentist.
Through a thorough examination, the dentist will know the best color, shape, and size of teeth to use so that the implant resembles your natural teeth.
When to Go For Bone Grafting
Dental needs differ from one patient to another. Some patients may need bone grafting before the procedure. This is because such patients have a soft jawbone that can’t hold the implant firmly.
If you proceed with the implant before bone grafting, the procedure will likely fail. So, let your dentist examine your current dental state and determine whether you need bone grafting or not. The dentist will determine the right graft materials suitable for your jawbone.
Some dentists will opt for a natural bone graft, while others go for a synthetic one. If you have a damaged tooth, the specialist will need to extract it before the dental procedure. This will create room for the placement of the implant. You will need about two to six months to heal before you go for the implant.
Dental Implant Procedure
Getting to this point shows that you’re now eligible for the implant. Your dentist will discuss the anesthesia and sedation process so that you stay comfortable during the procedure.
The dentist will use a drill and other special tools to place the dental implant on the bone. The specialist will cut the gum open and drill holes for the dental implant.
You will have a healing cap installed on the implant, and the specialist will stitch the gum well. There will be a gap, but the dentist can use a temporary denture to cover up the area and improve your appearance.
Your dentist will advise you to avoid straining the teeth with force to allow a smooth healing process. Be ready for follow-up appointments to enable your dentist to keep up with the healing process.
The Next Appointment
After the initial procedure, you will be patient for several months as the implant heals before going back for a new artificial tooth. During the healing process, the jawbone creates a firm base to hold the artificial tooth.
When the implant is strong enough, your dentist will install the two connecting elements called an abutment to support the partial denture. There may be no pain during this process, but you may feel a little pressure.
Putting the Permanent Crown
Once the gums heal, the specialist will make the artificial crown, either removable, permanent, or both. When you use a removable denture, you can easily remove it for effective cleaning or repair. However, if you choose a permanent denture, you will have to stay without removing it. It is fixed permanently.
After the Implant
It is common to experience discomfort after the surgery. This includes minor bleeding, bruising on the gums, and pain at the affected area, swelling on your face and gums, and little pain at the implant area.
The discomfort is natural, and there is no cause for alarm. While these may not be serious issues to worry about, you may still need antibiotics and pain medications to calm the discomfort. If you notice more problems, contact your specialist immediately for effective help.
What Next?
Are you ready for a dental implant? Going through the above procedure will help you prepare effectively for the procedure. Take your time and analyze each step before you meet your dentist.
