An implant dentist works through multiple stages of dental implantation to get the right result. If you need an implant, your dentist may work with other dental providers to ensure professional placement. The dentist will also guide you through the different phases, from consultation to the final crown. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control, especially if you are a nervous patient.
Consultation and treatment planning
Implant dentists use the initial consultation to thoroughly examine the patient's mouth. This examination may include 3D imaging or X-rays. The dentist can use this information to assess the patient's oral health. Based on what the dentist finds, they can create a tailored, patient-centric treatment plan.
Preparation and extraction
If the patient still has the broken or infected tooth, the implant dentist will extract it. In some instances, the implant can be placed immediately after extraction. However, some patients may have insufficient jawbone to support an implant. If this is the case, the dentist will likely perform a bone graft or preserve the tooth socket.
The idea is to rebuild volume, so grafts often need months to integrate before an implant placement. If the graft is needed for upper-jaw back teeth, the patient may need a sinus lift. This process lifts the sinus floor, creating enough vertical bone. The procedure also inevitably extends the healing timeline for the patient.
Placing the implant
After the preparations have been completed, the implant dentist can place the implant. The dentist will numb the patient's mouth, focusing on the area of the implant. Some patients may need sedation to keep them calm and relaxed throughout the procedure. The main focus of placing the implant is to insert it into the jawbone.
The titanium implant serves as a foundation for a replacement tooth. While the implant is considered a ‘foreign body', it does fuse with the jawbone over a period of 3 to 6 months. This process is called osseointegration. The fusion of the implant allows bone growth and keeps the implant stable in the jawbone.
Placing the abutment
After the osseointegration is complete, the implant dentist attaches an abutment. Placing the abutment (connector) is not as big a procedure as placing an implant. The dentist will place the abutment on top of the implant. The patient will need to wait a few weeks before receiving the final crown. This allows the gums to heal properly.
Placing the crown
Once the patient's gums have healed, the implant dentist can attach a crown to the abutment. Crowns are custom-made to suit each patient's needs. The dentist will take an impression of the patient's teeth to ensure the crown matches their natural teeth. When the crown is finally attached to the abutment, the dental implant process is complete.
Working with a skilled implant dentist
A skilled implant dentist will work with you through all the steps of placing an artificial tooth. The process may take several months, but your dentist will explain every phase so that you know what to expect. With the right dentist, dental implants can restore your teeth. When you book your dental implant with your local implant dentist, you can also improve your quality of life.
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