In the United States, many people have problems with diseased, loose, or missing teeth. However, dental implants can offer a solution to these concerns.
These replacement teeth can restore the function of your mouth and can make you feel good about your smile. First and foremost, learning about the dental implant procedure can help make the process go more smoothly and lead to a successful recovery.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are FDA-approved medical devices used as actual teeth replacements in the case of teeth loss.[1] They are metal posts a skilled periodontist inserts into the jawbone, where they act like artificial tooth roots. Implants come in many sizes and shapes, and your periodontist will select the most suitable type for your situation.
Most importantly, dental implants create a sturdy basis for a restoration that replaces your missing teeth. They are a natural-looking solution that will not shift when you eat or talk.
Beginning With a Dental Implant Consultation
The first step to getting dental implants in Rochester is to consult an implant specialist. A periodontist specializes in advanced training in implant surgery. During the implant consultation, the periodontist will examine your natural teeth and tissues to determine your overall dental condition. During this appointment, they will examine your natural teeth and tissues to determine your overall health condition. This examination may require X-rays, digital scans, or impressions.
Your periodontist will then evaluate you for bone loss, discuss the implant process, and answer your questions. Additionally, the dental team will develop a treatment plan based on your unique needs.
A treatment plan details the estimated timeline for your dental implant journey, from the surgical procedures to placing the artificial teeth on top of the titanium post. You’ll also receive an estimate for the cost of your treatment.
Surgical Procedures
After the consultations with your periodontist, where it was determined you are a candidate for dental implants and your treatment plan was put in place, you can then schedule your dental placement surgery. However, some patients require pre-implant procedures such as bone or gum grafting or a sinus lift. You must heal completely from these procedures before moving forward with the implant placement.
Implant Placement
The next step in the implant process is to surgically place the titanium implant post. Implants are embedded into your jawbone under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The periodontist makes a small hole in the jawbone and inserts the implant. You may have sutures that require a follow-up appointment to be removed.
At this time, you enter the osseointegration stage or healing period. This phase of treatment lasts a few months because the implant needs time to fuse with the jawbone. Your periodontist may monitor your progress with periodic exams and X-rays.
Abutment Placement
After your jawbone fully fuses with the implants, you’ll return to the office to have abutments placed. This piece is a small connector that supports the crown, which is the portion that resembles your natural tooth. In order to connect the abutment to the implant, your periodontist will need to expose the implant slightly. It’s a minor procedure that requires minimal recovery time.
Artificial Tooth Placement
Once the abutment is in place, you will return to your general dentist, who will fabricate a custom artificial tooth that will connect to the abutment. This is the restoration phase of the process, and it will involve taking impressions and sending them to the lab to fabricate your natural-looking artificial tooth. Once the final restoration is in place, you will usually return to your periodontist for a final check-up to ensure everything looks good.
Recovery After Implant Surgery
After you get your implant, the team will give you some easy-to-follow care tips. These instructions include brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. These practices help ensure your implant lasts a long time, so make sure you follow your periodontist’s post-surgery instructions.
Additionally, it’s crucial to prevent your implant from experiencing unnecessary stress. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, you might have to use a nightguard. This also means you may need to break bad habits, like chewing on ice or other hard foods. Dental implants are an investment in your health, so you must take the necessary steps to protect them.
Expert Dental Implants in Rochester
The journey toward restoring your teeth may seem long, but it is worth it. Dental implants will give you a beautiful, healthy smile that will last for a long time with proper care. Start your journey by scheduling your consultation at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester. Call 585-685-2005 to schedule an appointment.
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