Dental implants are definitely some of the most important things created by modern dentistry. They look and function much like real teeth and are more convenient and longer lasting than dentures. If you want to get some implants there are a couple of things that you need to understand about the dental implant procedure.
Talking to Your Dentist
Before you receive implants, your dentist will have to carefully assess your dental condition. He will also ask about your existing medical conditions, medical history and medications being taken. Your initial interview and check-up will help determine if you are a good candidate for implants.
You consultation with your dentist will also help to determine the right implant procedure and the exact form of implants to be used. As patients' jaw conditions and medical conditions vary, the selection of implant type is just as important as the actual implant procedure. In some cases, bone grafting or antibiotics is required before implantation.
Placing the Implants
The placement of the implant is the first step in the whole process. Almost all implants are made of titanium. So far, titanium is believed to be the best material that can perfectly merge with our jawbones. In some rare cases, however, the implants could be eventually rejected.
Before the implantation, bone grafting is a must step for patients with insufficient jawbones. Others can proceed to the implantation directly. As can be imagined, anesthesia is used before the dentist opens your gum and drills your jawbone. This is followed by the placement of implants and the stitching of your gum opening.
Healing
What you may not realise is that you can only go for the next step after a couple of months. During this waiting period, your bone will grow around and merge well with the implant. For some patients, this healing period may take half a year at the most.
Placement of the Post
After your jawbone fully heals around the implant, a post will be attached in order to hold the crown or artificial tooth. The dentist will make another opening in your gum and then attach the post to the implant. After that, you will be asked to rest for another couple of weeks so that your gum will heal around the post.
Placing the Crown
Once your gum heals, the dentist will head off to make the crown. To do that, he needs to first take impressions of your teeth, so that the specially made crown will resemble your missing tooth in color and appearance. When finished, the crown is attached to the post.
The dental implant procedure may seem much like a straightforward process to some people, but a rather complex (if not scaring) one to others. Whatever you feel about the process, make sure that you have an expert and qualified dentist to do the job for you. That way, the success of your dental implant is more guaranteed
If you are considering getting implantation, be sure you visit our site to learn more about dental implant procedure. You may also benefit from visiting our complete online dental guide if you have another area of dental problem.