If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants are an important treatment option for you, and it’s important to understand how they work.
Dental implants provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution that can improve both the function and appearance of your smile, as well as your overall oral health. Patients who choose dental implants enjoy an improved appearance, improved function, preservation of bone, and much more.
Keep reading to learn more about the dental implant procedure.
Preparing for Dental Implants
The process for getting dental implants is complex but worth the wait. When preparing for the procedure, here are a few steps that need to be taken:
Dental Exam: The first step in preparing for a dental implant is to schedule a dental exam with a dental implant specialist. The dentist will evaluate your oral health, take x-rays, and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Treatment Planning: The dental implant specialist will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include evaluating your jawbone density and structure, determining the best type of dental implant for your needs, and creating a timeline for the procedure.
Addressing Any Dental Issues: If you have any existing dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, these will need to be addressed prior to the dental implant procedure. This may involve additional treatments, such as scaling and root planing or tooth extractions.
Creating a Surgical Guide: To ensure precise placement of the dental implant, a surgical guide may be created. This is typically done using a CT scan or 3D imaging to create a 3D model of the jawbone and surrounding structures.
Lifestyle Adjustments: In some cases, lifestyle adjustments may be necessary prior to the dental implant procedure. For example, if you smoke, you may be asked to quit in order to reduce the risk of complications and ensure proper healing.
By following these preparation steps, you can help ensure the success of your dental implant procedure and achieve a healthy, functional, and natural-looking smile.
Placing the Dental Implant
Placing a dental implant is also a complex procedure that should be performed by a licensed dental professional. Here are the general steps involved in the process:
- Initial Consultation: The first step is to schedule an initial consultation with a dental professional to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. During this consultation, the dental professional will examine your teeth and gums, take x-rays and impressions, and discuss the procedure with you.
- Pre-Surgical Planning: Once you have been deemed a good candidate for dental implants, the dental professional will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This will involve determining the size, shape, and position of the implant and creating a surgical guide to ensure accurate placement.
- Anesthesia: Prior to the procedure, the dental professional will administer local anesthesia to numb the area where the implant will be placed.
- Incision: The dental professional will then make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone.
- Drilling: The dental professional will use specialized tools to create a small hole in the bone where the implant will be placed.
- Implant Placement: The implant, which is typically made of titanium, is then inserted into the hole and positioned so that it is flush with the surrounding bone.
- Healing: The implant will need to integrate with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration, which can take several months. During this time, a temporary crown or bridge may be placed over the implant.
- Abutment Placement: Once osseointegration has occurred, the dental professional will place an abutment on top of the implant, which will connect the implant to the final restoration.
- Final Restoration: A final crown or bridge is then attached to the abutment to complete the implant placement process.
It's important to note that the exact steps of the implant placement process may vary depending on your specific case, and your dental professional can provide more specific information and guidance.
Dental Implants in Easton, PA
At Fabey Dental, we offer comprehensive dental services, including dental implants that give patients confidence in their smiles.
To learn more about our dental implant services or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 610-810-2704.