If statistics are to be believed, over 3+ million US citizens have dental implants. This number is further expected to grow by 500,000+ per year by 2025.
Dental implants are no longer a taboo. Instead, they’re the go-to option for people with one or more missing teeth, as it helps maintain oral health and add to your overall appeal.
However, you can’t simply visit your nearest dental in Farmington NM, and get implants. A dental implant procedure involves several steps and stages before you’re all set with the perfect smile.
This blog looks at the different steps involved in the dental implant procedure. So continue reading as we walk you through the various stages in the following sections. But first, let’s have a quick overview of dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a part of restorative dentistry. They’re an excellent option for individuals who have lost one or more teeth to natural causes or accidents. Dentists surgically insert dental implants, artificial tooth roots, into the jawbone to serve as a foundation for holding a prosthetic tooth in place.
When consulting a professional for dental implants Farmington, you’ll come across three major components of the appliance, namely:
- The implant is made from titanium
- The crown acts as natural-looking teeth.
- The abutment is a post that connects the implant and the crowd.
So now that we have a fair idea of what dental implants are let’s have a brief walkthrough of the different stages of the procedure.
Steps Involved In The Dental Implants Procedure
A dental implant procedure is carried out in numerous stages. Patients generally need a few months of visits to get their flawless grins. It typically involves a few consultations and can last up to a month.
Here’s an overview of the different stages of the procedure to give you an insight into the process:
Stage I: Preparation
The first stage of getting a dental implant is connecting with a dental clinic specializing in surgical procedures. Once you’ve found your qualified dentist, the next step requires thoroughly examining your mouth. During this phase, your dental expert will examine your overall health and create a treatment plan.
Based on your teeth’ condition, your dentist might suggest extraction or wait for some time before moving into implant placement. Once all the details are acquired, it’s time to move to the next stage.
Stage II: Placing The Treatment
Your dentist will fix an appointment for the next stage and invite you to their clinic. Your dental professional will examine you and suggest the number of implants inserted in your mouth based on the examination.
Once through with the decision, they will place anesthetics to start the second phase. First, the surgeon cuts through the gums to drill a hole and place the titanium screw. Next, a metal post is screwed into place.
Note: Dentists usually suggest a healing period between four to six months after this stage of the dental implant procedure.
Stage III: Installing The Abutment
This stage generally begins once the implant is fully integrated and healed. This is the most crucial phase of the process as it connects the replacement tooth or crown to the implant.
Your dentist will perform minor surgery to open the gums and place the abutment in this stage. After fixing the abutment, they may offer you a temporary crown to avoid the discomfort of metals sticking to the surrounding gums.
Stage IV: Fitting The Crown
Once you finish the extraction and abutment process, you must undergo one final surgical procedure. In this stage, your dentist takes a fresh impression to shape the replacement tooth and fit it seamlessly into your gum.
So once the swelling has gone down after the Stage III procedure, it’s time to put a crown on the area. Again, you can take your pick from natural-looking, flashy, or permanent golden teeth based on your requirements.
Stage V: Recovering From The Surgery
The final stage of getting a dental implant requires you to recover from the surgical procedures. Here, you should connect with your dentist to get relief from swollen gums, gum bruising, or pain around the implants.
However, while you’re in the recovery stage, it’s wise to avoid the following:
- Tough Foods: Raw vegetables or steak
- Chewy Foods: Bagels and gummies
- Spicy Foods: Salsa and hot peppers
- Crunchy Foods: Popcorn and chips
- Sticky Foods: Taffy and caramel
- Acidic Foods: Oranges and tomatoes
- Hot Foods & Liquids: Coffee and soup
Besides your eating habits, you could also avoid physical activities that could harm your oral health.
Now You Know
Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants are designed to mimic your teeth’ natural structure and function, providing a long-lasting and reliable solution. With advancements in technology and materials, dental implants have become a safe and comfortable procedure with a high success rate. Implants can also help prevent bone loss and maintain the integrity of your jawline, improving your oral health and overall well-being.
Consult The Experts
Dental implants are a complex procedure, especially when not done under the supervision of experts. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon to discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan. Dental implants can provide a beautiful and functional smile for years with proper care and maintenance.
So don’t risk your oral health; choose the trusted professionals from Sundance Dentals. Book an appointment today or call us at 505-326-6800.