Implant restorations are a highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering patients a durable, natural-looking option that restores functionality and aesthetics. They involve a process that combines the surgical placement of a dental implant with the creation and attachment of a prosthetic crown or other dental appliance. Take a look at this step-by-step guide to understand how implant restorations work and what to expect throughout the procedure.
The implant restoration process begins with a consultation to assess whether the patient is a good candidate. The general dentist evaluates the patient's oral health, including the condition of the gums and jawbone—the primary determining factor of whether the implant will have ample support. The dentist may recommend a gum or bone graft if either factor proves insufficient. Should the patient prove ideal, the dentist will use imaging technology, such as X-rays or 3D scans, to plan the precise placement of the implant. Further, patients will choose between a crown (for a single missing tooth), dentures, or dental bridges for their implant restoration.
The implant placement will take place during another appointment after the initial consultation. It involves creating an incision over the area where the implant will go. This incision will allow the dentist access to the jawbone, where they will drill a hole to place the titanium implant. Finally, they will suture the gums over the implant and jawbone to begin osseointegration.
Osseointegration is a few-month-long process that involves the implant fusing with the jawbone. During this time, the patient should refrain from disturbing the procedure site or eating crunchy, spicy, acidic, tough, chewy, and sticky foods—basically, patients will want to stick to a soft diet. A diet with soups, eggs, potatoes, yogurt, cheese, fish, etc. Further, patients must avoid all smoke, vaping, tobacco, and nicotine products throughout the entire process. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, this significantly decreases the chances of slowed healing, infection, and implant failure.
Once osseointegration is complete, patients return to the dental office for the abutment placement. The abutment is the titanium piece the dentist affixes to the top of the implant post. This process will require reopening the gum line—not the jawbone—for placement. Note that the abutment will jut out above the gum line to anchor the implant restoration.
Once in place, the dentist will record measurements of the abutment and the space between the abutment and surrounding teeth. Sometimes, they simply take a mold of the area. Lastly, the dentist will send the measurements and implant restoration choice, chosen in the initial consultation, to an offsite lab for fabrication. Patients may be fitted with a temporary restorative to guard the surrounding teeth and gums from the abutment.
For the final appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary restorative and test the permanent implant restoration's fit. They will coach the patient through various bite tests to ensure comfort. If minor adjustments are necessary, the dentist will make them during the appointment before bonding it into place.
Understanding the dental implant process is important, as it can be intricate and somewhat lengthy. Consulting with a skilled dentist ensures a seamless restoration journey and results that enhance oral health, function, and appearance. Contact Dental Partners Dickson to begin the first step in implant restoration.
Request an appointment here: https://dicksonfamilydental.com or call Dental Partners Dickson at (615) 931-4088 for an appointment in our Dickson office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implant Restoration in Dickson, TN.
A restorative dentist can bring back your smile and dental function. You should consult this dentist first before your treatments begin. That way, you will know what the procedures will entail. Here are some of the things to expect during your consultation with your dentist.Some restorative dental treatments are invasive. This may cause anxiety in…
There are several ways that a restorative dentist can replace missing teeth. Most people will lose one or more of their teeth at some point in their lives, and it can lead to a host of issues if they are not replaced.Bone tissues need to be regularly stimulated to remain healthy, as is the case…
Considering choosing a general dentist to perform your smile makeover? Smart. Many people think making over their smile will look for a cosmetic dentist to complete their makeover, not understanding that some general dentists are an option, too. Making a consultation appointment is the first step to determining which smile makeover options a general dentist…
Dental fillings are an important step in maintaining good oral health. However, it can be difficult to know whether you need a filling or not. There are a few signs and symptoms to look out for that could indicate you might need a filling. We will discuss some of the most common signs that you…
Dental fillings are an important step in maintaining good oral health. However, it can be difficult to know whether you need a filling or not. There are a few signs and symptoms to look out for that could indicate you might need a filling. We will discuss some of the most common signs that you…
Breaking a tooth is something no one should have to experience, but if you do, thankfully, there are dental crowns to save the day. A broken tooth is incredibly painful, and if left exposed, it can lead to infection, further damage, and tooth loss. That is why dentists recommend getting a crown as quickly as…