Getting dental implants can be life-changing for people struggling with missing teeth. Whether you choose single-tooth implants, implant-supported bridges, or implant dentures, these tooth replacements can give you back your confident smile and your ability to bite and speak with ease. They look natural and feel comfortable and secure compared to other tooth replacement solutions. If you’re new to the dental implant process and want to know what’s in store, read on for a complete breakdown of the procedure and timeline.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of tooth replacement featuring a titanium screw and a false tooth. The titanium post is surgically attached to the patient’s jawbone. When it’s fully healed, a connector or abutment is attached to the post. This abutment connects the dental crown or artificial tooth to the titanium implant and secures it in place. Since implants are rooted in the jaw, they feel as stable as natural teeth with no risk of shifting or slipping. Unlike dental bridges and dentures, implants also prevent bone loss due to missing teeth. Among the aesthetic benefits, dental crowns are customized using high-quality materials like zirconia to perfectly blend in with your natural teeth. Implants are indistinguishable from natural teeth when you smile or speak, with no visible metal elements seen above the gumline.
Dental Implant Process
The total time taken to get implants depends on your individual situation. However, the process follows these steps for most patients:
Initial Consultation
Here’s what to expect from your first consultation:
- An expert will explain the tooth implant process and learn your needs and goals.
- A dental care professional will perform an oral assessment and may take a 3D scan to further examine your teeth.
- They may work on a visualization or digital simulation so you can see what implants could look like on you.
- They’ll work on a treatment plan customized to your needs.
- You can also ask about pricing and customizations.
Smile Design Appointment
Once you’ve committed to getting implants, you’ll be invited to a second appointment for more in-depth analysis and planning. Your appointment may include the following:
- Your dentist may request a review of your health history
- They may conduct X-rays and oral exams
- They may get impressions of your teeth and take photographs
- You’ll have the chance to select your tooth mold and color (shade selection)
- Your dentist will finalize your treatment plan
At this stage, your dentist may also schedule your implant surgery and let you know how to prepare for dental surgery. Feel free to ask questions about the process or voice your concerns.
Optional Step: Pre-Treatments
Getting dental implants requires good dental health and bone density in the jaw. Some patients may need to get additional treatments to address gum disease before their surgery. Others may require bone grafts to ensure their jawbone is healthy enough for implants. Patients looking to replace a decayed tooth may require tooth extraction. Your exact treatment and treatment time may vary depending on your unique situation. Pre-treatments can draw out the overall implant process, but they’re essential for a successful result.
Implant Surgery
Implant surgery only takes a few hours, but patients are usually advised to keep their day free and not make other commitments. Your oral surgeon will administer pain management medication to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. They’ll place the implant in your jaw and give you a temporary abutment and crown to wear while you heal. Post-surgery, your dentist will provide instructions for managing discomfort and preventing infection, including using prescribed medications and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Healing Process
The healing process after implant surgery can take 3 to 6 months. During this time, the titanium post fuses with the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to ensure the custom crown or bridge fits perfectly.
Final Smile Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, your dentist will call you for the final fitting. During the placement, your dentist will ensure that your prosthetics fit securely and align with your natural teeth. They may make adjustments for a more comfortable fit.
The Bottom line
Getting dental implants in Chandler, AZ, can be a smooth and rewarding process for many tooth loss patients. However, the exact steps and procedures may vary based on the patient’s individual circumstances and needs. Most dentists will let you know what to expect from your dental implant procedure.
