At Texas Dental, we know that getting dental implants is a big decision, and it’s important to understand what to expect throughout the process. Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, and they can help restore both the function and appearance of your smile. Dental implants provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution, whether you’re missing a single tooth or several. Here’s what you can expect when you choose dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. Once the implant is in place, it fuses with the bone in osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for a dental crown, bridge, or denture to be attached. Depending on your needs, implants can replace individual teeth, multiple teeth, or even all of your teeth.
Dental implants are most beneficial because they feel and look like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, which can slip or require adhesives, dental implants securely anchor into your jawbone and function like natural teeth. This means you can eat, speak, and smile confidently without worrying about your implants shifting.
The Consultation and Planning Process
The first step in the dental implant process is a thorough consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your oral health, review your medical history, and discuss your goals for treatment. They may take X-rays or 3D scans to assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if you have enough bone density to support the implants. If you don’t have enough bone, your dentist may recommend a bone graft to build up the area before placing the implant.
Your dentist will also discuss the types of implants best suited for your needs and explain the procedure so you know what to expect. They’ll help you plan the best action to restore your smile comfortably and effectively.
The Implant Surgery
The dental implant procedure typically involves several stages. The first stage involves surgically placing the implant into your jawbone. This minor procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning you will be awake without pain. For patients with anxiety or fear, sedation dentistry options are available to make the procedure more comfortable.
After the implant is placed, it will take some time to heal. The osseointegration process, where the implant fuses with your jawbone, typically takes several months. During this healing period, your dentist may provide a temporary restoration to protect the area and maintain function.
Placing the Abutment and Crown
Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, your dentist will place an abutment, a small connector that attaches to the implant and holds the crown or other restoration in place. The dentist usually places the abutment in a minor procedure that may require only local anesthesia.
After the abutment is in place, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom dental crown, bridge, or denture that matches your natural teeth. This restoration will securely attach to the abutment, completing the implant process.
The result is a fully functional and natural-looking tooth replacement that can last many years with proper care. Implants can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the implant procedure, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising around the implant site. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your implant during the healing process, including recommendations for pain management and any follow-up visits you may need.
During the healing process, it is important to keep the implant site clean and avoid hard or sticky foods to ensure the implant stays in place. Your dentist will also schedule regular checkups to monitor the healing process and ensure your implant functions properly.