The Process Of Getting Dental Implants

The length of time it takes to have dental implants inserted depends on a few factors. The number of teeth you are having replaced as well as individual healing time affects the process.

Surgery is the First Step

If you have thought it over and weighed the pros and cons and want to have dental implant surgery, your dentist must determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. People who smoke may be asked to quit prior to having the surgery since smoking can slow the healing process.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, good candidates for dental implant surgery need to have enough healthy tissue in the jawbone to support the implant.  

After determining a patient is an appropriate candidate for the surgery, the first part of the procedure can get underway. The first step involves surgically inserting a post, which is usually made of titanium, into the jawbone. The bone is given time to heal before the next step in the process.

Because the bone and implant fuse, it creates a strong foundation for the replacement tooth. Although the length of time it takes for the bone and implant to fuse and for the tissue to heal varies, it often takes at least a few months. During that time, patients so not have restrictions on foods they can eat or activities.

The next phase of the dental implant process is placing a connector, which is called an abutment, onto the post. Lastly, the prosthetic tooth, referred to as a crown, is attached to the abutment.  

Complications of Dental Implants

Although dental implant surgery is considered safe, there are risks and possible complications, which can develop. Infections are always a possibility with any type of surgery and dental implant surgery is no different. Excess bleeding may also occur in rare cases.

Additionally, while the implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone, damage to the surrounding tissues and blood vessels can occur. The nerves can also be damaged during the process.

This means the implant does not fuse to the jawbone. If a patient has a very swallow jawbone, there may not be enough bone for the fusing to take place. Bone grafting prior to dental implant surgery can increase the chances of success for some people.

Grafting involves taking bone from another part of the patient’s body and transplanting it into the jaw. The amount of bone needed is very small. Bone may also be used from donors. The bone is processed in order to prepare it for the grafting process.  

See Also: Dental Implant Prostheses: What Is The Best Choice?

In most cases, complications are not common. But patients should still be aware of the risks so they can make an informed decision. In addition, being a good candidate decreases your risks of complications. Following post-operative instructions also reduces the likelihood of complications.  

It is also critical patients who have dental implant surgery take care of their implant the same way they care for their natural teeth. Brushing and flossing is still needed. Gum disease can develop around the implant, which can lead to future problems.