Dental Implant
Dental implant is a surgical procedure where the missing roots of one or more teeth are replaced using a metal implant. A dental implant acts as a small screw-like fixture that is placed into the jawbone. After the surgery, the jawbone fuses with the implant and it serves as a new root for the artificial tooth. Then, the artificial tooth, which may be a single tooth or a bridge, is attached to the implant. The dental implant is firmly and permanently fixed in place and closely resembles the look and function of natural teeth, allowing the patient to eat and speak comfortably.
How Dental Implant Procedure Is Performed
The dental implant surgery procedure depends on the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. The dental implant surgery may involve multiple steps. The key benefit of implants is that they provide a strong foundation for your new teeth – a process that requires bone healing around the implant. Because the bone healing process takes time, this procedure may take several months to complete.
Since dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, they act as the roots of your missing teeth. Because the titanium in the implant fuses with your jawbone, the implants will not slip, make noise, or damage the bone, unlike traditional fixed bridges or dentures. The implant materials perform more like your natural teeth.
The dental implant process involves the following steps
1. Evaluation and Planning: In this stage, your dentist examines you and takes images of your teeth, including advanced scans (such as a CT scan) to assess the structure of your jawbone and mouth. Based on this information, a customized treatment plan is developed for you.
2. Implant Surgery: During the surgical stage, you will be given a local or general anesthesia. The dentist then makes a small incision in the gum and places the implant into the upper or lower jawbone. After this, the gum is stitched closed, and the area is allowed to heal for a period of time.
3. Healing Process: The dental implant becomes well-integrated into the jawbone or mandible over several months (typically 3 to 6 months). During this time, the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration.
4. Prosthetic Placement: Once the healing process is complete, a small, bony part called an abutment or implant post is attached to the implant. This abutment serves as the base for attaching the dental prosthetic. Finally, the dental prosthetic, which can be a single tooth, a dental bridge, or even a full arch of fixed teeth (like a bridge), is secured to the abutment.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants are generally very durable and can serve you well in the long term, as long as they are properly maintained and oral hygiene is practiced.
Caring for dental implants involves regular oral hygiene, cleaning the teeth and implants with a toothbrush and dental floss, and regularly scheduled dental visits for examination and professional cleaning.
Who is Dental Implants Suitable For?
– You have lost one or more teeth
– Your jawbone has reached full growth
– You have adequate bone to securely hold the implant or can undergo bone grafting
– Your oral tissues are healthy
– You don’t have conditions that could affect bone healing
– You are unable to or unwilling to use removable dentures
– You want to improve your speech
– You are willing to commit several months to the process
– You do not have a smoking habit
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful؟
Yes, dental implant surgery can cause some temporary discomfort and swelling in the surgical area. However, with the use of pain medications and standard post-operative care, these discomforts can be managed and alleviated.
How Long Does It Take for Dental Implants to Heal?
The healing time for dental implants can vary and depends on factors such as your bone quality, your body’s healing response, and adherence to post-operative instructions. Generally, the process of bone integration and attachment to the implant typically takes 3 to 6 months.
Can Dental Implants Restore Normal Eating and Speaking Ability?
Yes, dental implants closely mimic the look and function of natural teeth, allowing patients to speak and eat normally. Implants are firmly anchored in place and, due to their integration with the jawbone, enable the consumption of hard foods and eating without worry.
It is recommended to consult with your dentist before making a final decision about dental implants, to obtain accurate information about your specific dental and jaw conditions. For more information, please feel free to contact us.