Dental Implants – The Procedure and How They Work
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Teeth replacement is one of the many great innovations that modern technology now offers to the mass. In the past, people who have missing tooth or teeth only have limited options to resolve the issue.
The traditional solution is dentures, which many individuals still look after. Bridgework is another way to replace a tooth or teeth. While these are all effective dental procedures, the best one will dramatically vary depending on the patient’s dental health condition.
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How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants have now become the most popular way to solve missing tooth or teeth problems. As it happens, they provide a more natural tooth replacement as the implants look and feel more like an actual tooth.
Unlike dentures and bridges, implants can also last much longer in terms of longevity. Moreover, they offer the utmost comfort, reliability, and convenience to every patient.
The way they work is by having the implants attached directly to the jawbone. The bones will act as the main support for the artificial tooth or teeth, making them more natural.
Dental Implants Procedure
So, how do dentists attach the implants?
There are generally four steps in completing the entire procedure. It is worth noting, however, that additional procedures and surgeries may be done in the whole course for other cases. Hence, this will still vary depending on the condition of the teeth, jawbone, and mouth.
- Tooth Extraction
The first step is tooth extraction. Keep in mind, though, that this is optional as some people already have a missing tooth or teeth when they resort to having implants. Just like in any extraction process, dentists will extract the tooth and clean the entire place, including the root system.
Inserting the Dental Implant and Bone Grafting
On a usual basis, placing the implant comes first if no extractions are needed. In this procedure, you will undergo surgery wherein the dentist will place the implant in its proper position.
The placement should allow the artificial tooth to integrate into the jawbone for about three to six months.
Attaching the Post
In most cases, dentists attach the post at the same time as the placement of the implant. This process will allow the gum tissue to grow up around the material of the implant.
But, there are instances, as well, when dental experts would not do a simultaneous attachment. Nevertheless, the post serves as an anchor for the artificial tooth.
Crown Attachment
The third and final procedure before the completion is the crown attachment. The dentist, in this step, will attach a customized crown to the implant post.
This will serve as the outermost layer of the whole implant, making it appear as if it is a natural tooth or set of teeth.
It is important to note that the whole process may take time. The main procedure may take hours or even months to complete its entirety.
People who will undergo teeth extraction first should expect to have a much longer waiting period before the dental implants settle in.
Risks
Implant surgeries are not that far different from any other type of surgery today. This is why patients should expect that the entire process poses some minimal health risk, as well.
Experts and studies claim, however, that problems are very rare. But, when the risks became apparent, they are normally minor, which are treatable.
Some of the risks include:
Infection at the implant site
Some patients may experience infections at the implant site. People who are more susceptible to this are those who have weak immune systems, and individuals living with some health conditions.
This is why it is a must for every person to consult first whether dental implants are the best solution for their respective teeth replacements.
Injury or damage to surrounding structures
Injuries and damages in the surrounding area are common, as well. Just like in most surgeries, there will be cuts and even stitches to complete the whole process.
Also, the attachment of the post, the implant, and the crown may cause a shock to some parts of the mouth and gums. But, this will still depend on several factors including the health condition of the patient and the skills of the dentist.
Nerve damage
Nerve damages are also a common risk of having implants. When a patient suffers from this, there will be varying pain depending on the case and condition of the dental and oral health.
Some patients may also experience tingling and numbness when damages occur on the nerves.
Sinus problems
Having sinus problems after having an implant from your dentist is also another common risk of the procedure. This happens usually on patients who have their implants placed in the upper jaw protrude as it directly impacts one of the sinus cavities.
Bottom Line
Having a missing tooth or teeth is quite bothersome. It can deteriorate one’s dental and oral health, and even negatively impact the quality of life.
Thankfully, though, dental procedures and surgeries, like implants, have now become widely available and accessible. So, if you are wondering whether this will be the best solution for your dental concerns, consult your dentist from North York Smile Center for Dental Implants today.
