Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

A dental implant can replace an entire dental structure. The titanium rods act like dental roots and anchor the artificial tooth to the jawbone. This restoration is the gold standard of dental replacements. Here are the details about using a dental implant to replace your missing tooth.

Assessment

The dentist will evaluate the patient’s mouth first. This first step is vital in determining if the patient is a good candidate for dental implant surgery. An individual with a thinning jawbone will need a bone graft or sinus lift before getting implants. Someone with severe periodontal disease may not be a good candidate for the surgery.

Dental implant surgery can replace at least one tooth. It is usually an outpatient treatment. The dentist may use general anesthesia, local anesthesia, or IV sedation to make the procedure painless. Some patients are fine with local anesthesia. Others with dental anxiety will need general anesthesia or IV sedation. The dentist and patient will agree on the type of dental sedation during the consultation.

Implant placement

The dentist will cut into the gum tissue and expose the jawbone. Drilling an implant hole into the jawbone will come next. The dentist will then insert the titanium rod into the hole and stitch the gum tissue over the rod. A temporary crown will stay on top of the rod until the permanent crown is ready. The rod and the jawbone must fuse before the abutment placement.

Fusion of the titanium rod and jawbone

Osseointegration will take about three to six months to finish. This process will strengthen the jawbone and stabilize the titanium rod. The duration will depend on the individual’s ability to heal. This fusion will enable the titanium rod to merge with the jawbone. The firm foundation will enable the rod to act as a strong dental root.

Abutment placement

An abutment is a metal extender that attaches the artificial dental crown to the titanium rod. The dentist will cut through the top gum tissue to reveal the titanium rod. The abutment will attach to the rod. Stitching the gum tissue around the abutment will close the area. Healing from this step will take about two weeks. The dentist will then attach the artificial, custom-fit dental crown.

Dental crown placement

The dentist will take an impression of the treated teeth. This step is necessary to ensure the fit of the dental crown. The artificial tooth can be either removable or fixed. A removable crown will sit on a metal frame and then attached to the abutment. Removability makes cleaning at home and at the clinic easier. A fixed crown will be screwed or cemented on the abutment.

Aftercare

Seeing the dentist for regular checkups is important after the crown placement. These visits will enable the dentist to check the progress of the dental implant. Professional dental cleanings can help maintain the health of the implant site. Continue caring for the implant by performing good oral care at home. Refrain from using the new tooth for biting or chewing until the dentist says it is fine to do so.