Dental implants look just like real teeth but unlike dentures, they are fixed permanently in position so there is no need to remove them for cleaning and moreover, no foods are out of bounds. But what exactly are they and how are dental implants done?
Firstly, what are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small metal post typically made from titanium that is implanted directly into the jawbone beneath the gums. It acts as an artificial tooth root and once in place, supports a false tooth or dental crown.
The act of dental implant surgery replaces the natural tooth root with an implant that secures the dental crown into the jawbone to prevent it from moving. Together, the implant and crown mimic the form and function of a natural tooth.
Because dental crowns are skilfully crafted to match the surrounding teeth, an untrained eye would find it almost impossible to tell them apart. This is why dental implants are considered the most natural-looking restoration option and are the closest you can get to real teeth.
If damaged or missing teeth are making you feel self-conscious then implants could be the ideal solution for you. But how are dental implants done and what’s involved in the procedure? Let’s take a closer look…
The dental implant procedure – what to expect
Dental implants aren’t for everyone which is why the first step of any dental implant procedure is to undergo an initial consultation with your dentist. During the consultation, dental x-rays will be taken of the missing tooth site. This helps to determine first if there is sufficient room in that area of your mouth to place an implant and secondly, whether the bone is strong enough to provide support.
Your medical history will also be discussed. Since dental implant surgery is required to place an implant, your dentist will naturally need to know that you are physically capable of undergoing surgery and that you don’t suffer from allergies to any medications.
Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?
Generally speaking, most people are suitable candidates for implants but that said, there are certain factors to consider. They include:
- Healthy gums – The gums need to be healthy to wrap around and support the implant. However, if this isn’t the case, gum disease can be easily treated before dental implant surgery.
- Sufficient bone – The bone needs to be sufficiently dense and strong since the implants are to be embedded directly into the jawbone,
- Smoking and implants – Time has to be allowed for the mouth to heal and for the gums and bone to secure the implant. Smoking harms healing, which is why, if you’re a smoker, you’ll be asked to cease smoking for the duration of the dental implant procedure which can take up to 9 months.
- Good oral hygiene – Dental implants require the same level of care as natural teeth and bad oral habits following dental implant surgery may cause your implant to fail.
If you’re not a suitable candidate right away, all is not lost since your dentist can discuss options such as gum disease treatment, a sinus lift, and bone augmentation to rebuild your bone so it can support a dental implant.
Assuming you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, your dentist and his team will spend some time planning to minimise the length of the surgery and to ensure accurate placement of the implant.
What happens next, how are dental implants done?
The dental implant procedure is carried out in several stages. Here is what happens …
- Placing the implant – This is the part that worries people the most. However, with anaesthesia and dental sedation, most patients find that it’s over quickly and that they don’t feel a thing. Typically an incision is made in the gums to reveal the bone and a small hole is drilled. The implant post is placed into the hole and the gums are stitched back together. Time is then needed for the mouth to heal and for the implant and bone to fuse.
- Placing the abutment – Once the implant has stabilised, another short bout of dental implant surgery will be required to place the abutment. This fits onto the implant post, sits above the gum line, and is used to connect the dental crown. A few weeks are then allowed for the mouth to heal once more.
- Completing the restoration – Finally, once the gums are fully healed impressions will be taken so that the dental crown can be made. Patients will be asked back to the dental clinic to have their crown fitted and cemented securely into place and the restoration will be complete.
As you can see, the dental implant procedure takes time and is something that can’t be rushed. However, there are many benefits to be had. For example, implants…
- Look and feel just like real teeth
- Are a permanent fixture in the body since they are fused to the bone
- Function as efficiently as natural teeth
- Restore your smile and confidence
- Are durable with the potential to last your lifetime with proper care and maintenance
So now you have the answer to “how are dental implants done” there’s nothing to stop you from booking a consultation with No Gaps Dental to see if they’re a suitable option for you. We’re here to provide support throughout the dental implant procedure and will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Call No Gaps Dental today on (02) 8806 0227 to schedule your initial consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.