Many people are getting dental implants as a cure for their dental problems. Dental implants are preferred over dentures because they not only look and function like real teeth but also are convenient and enduring. For some, the understanding of the exact dental implant procedure is perhaps something that will help them make the decision.
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.
Placement of 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.
Patients with insufficient jawbone will have to undertake bone grafting before they can take implants. For others with enough sturdy jawbones, the procedure can start off right away. When the anesthesia begins to take effect, your gum is opened and jawbone is drilled. After the implant is inserted, the gum opening will be stitched.
Healing
After implants being placed, you need to wait for a few months before the next step. This healing period is necessary for your bone to grow around and merge with the implant. In some cases, this healing process will take as long as six months.
Attaching the Post
When the jawbone has perfectly merged with the implant, the dentist will attach the post to hold the crown or artificial tooth. This is done by making another opening on your gum, and the post is then attached to the implant. Again, you need to wait for the gums to heal around the post and this may take a few weeks.
Crown Placement
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.
To some people, the dental implant procedure may seem straightforward. To others, however, it may sound complex and may take much more time than they have expected. Whatever you think, the key is to find a qualified dentist to do it for you. The success of your implantation is more assured at the hands of an expert.
If you would like to dig further on dental implant procedure, be sure you visit our site about dental implants. You can also benefit from checking out our main site for complete guide on dental care.
