Dental Implant Treatments,from DNA Henley
What It Involves
Initial Consultation & Evaluation
- Comprehensive Oral Exam: This includes checking your overall oral health, assessing gum condition, and evaluating the location and health of surrounding teeth.
- Medical History Review: Your dentist will ask about your medical history and any medications you’re taking to identify potential contraindications or risks.
- Radiographs (X-rays or CT Scans): These are crucial for evaluating the amount and density of your jawbone, determining the optimal implant placement location, and identifying any underlying issues.
- Treatment Planning: Based on the evaluation, a personalized treatment plan is created, outlining the specific type of implant, the number of implants needed, and the timeline for the procedure.
- Discussion & Informed Consent: You’ll discuss the procedure, its risks and benefits, the costs involved, and alternative options. You’ll need to sign an informed consent before proceeding.
Implant Placement
- Local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area. Sometimes, sedation options like oral sedatives or IV sedation are utilized for patients with anxiety. A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone. Using specialized drills, a precise hole is created in the jawbone at the planned location. The titanium implant (a small screw-like post) is carefully inserted into the prepared hole. The gum tissue is sutured back over the implant, which is now embedded in the bone. In some cases, a healing abutment might be attached to the implant, protruding through the gum.
Osseointegration
- Waiting Period: This critical period, which can last from 3-6 months or longer, allows the bone to grow around and fuse with the implant. This process, called osseointegration, is what makes dental implants so strong and stable.
- Follow-up Appointments: You’ll have regular checkups with your dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure proper integration.
Abutment Placement
- Exposure: If the implant was covered by gum tissue during the first phase, another minor surgical procedure is done to expose it.
- Abutment Attachment: A small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This abutment serves as the base for the final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture).
- Gum Healing: The gums around the abutment are allowed to heal for a few weeks.
Restoration Placement
- Impressions: Once the gums have healed, impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom-made restoration.
- Restoration Fabrication: The dental lab fabricates the custom crown, bridge, or denture based on the impressions.
- Restoration Attachment: The final restoration is attached to the abutment, completing the process.
- Adjustments: Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and proper fit.
- Post-Care & Maintenance: You’ll receive instructions on proper oral hygiene practices and regular follow-up appointments to maintain the health and longevity of your implant.