If you’re considering getting a dental implant, you’re probably wondering what the procedure entails. What happens during the surgery? Will it be painful? How long will it take to recover?
Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular option for replacing missing teeth. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they are also a long-lasting solution to tooth loss.
However, the idea of undergoing a surgical procedure can be intimidating for many people.
If you’re interested in getting a dental implant, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about the process. Understanding what to expect during single implant placement surgery can help ease your fears and prepare you for a successful procedure.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery.
Overview of the Procedure
Dental implant surgery has become a popular method to replace missing teeth. It is a type of surgery that involves the placement of a small titanium post into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. Single dental implant surgery is an ideal solution for individuals who have lost a tooth due to various reasons. Here’s an overview of the procedure of a single implant placement surgery:
Step 1: Initial Evaluation, Consultation, and Examination
The first step in single implant placement surgery is to schedule an appointment with a dentist who specializes in implants.
During the consultation, the dentist will examine your mouth and evaluate your oral health to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
They will also discuss your medical history, ask about any medication you are taking, and take dental X-rays to visualize the area where the implant will be placed.
Step 2: Tooth Extraction
The second step in this procedure is tooth extraction. During this step, the dentist will remove the damaged or diseased tooth from the patient’s mouth. This is a critical step in the process because it provides a clean slate for implant placement.
The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and the dentist will use specialized tools to extract the tooth carefully. Patients may experience some discomfort during and after the procedure, but with proper aftercare and medication, the pain can be managed effectively.
Step 3: Inserting the Dental Implant (with potential prior bone grafting)
In step three of a single implant placement surgery, the dental implant itself is inserted into the bone, following a potential bone grafting and membrane procedure during the extraction visit.
The bone grafting procedure is typically performed during the extraction visit to provide additional support for the implant and aid in the healing process.
The implant is carefully placed to ensure optimal stability and support for the dental restoration that will be attached to it.
Proper placement and careful management of the implant procedure are critical to the long-term success of the dental implant.
Step 4: Healing Abutment Placement
In single implant placement surgery, the healing abutment placement is the fourth crucial step in the procedure. It involves attaching an abutment to the top of the implant, which will eventually connect to the replacement tooth or crown.
The abutment serves to keep the tooth or crown in place, and it is carefully chosen to fit the shape of the implant and the patient’s bite.
The abutment may be made of different materials, depending on the individual case, and its placement is done with precision to ensure long-lasting results.
Once the abutment is in place, the patient will need to wait for a few weeks to allow the gums to heal before the final restoration can be attached.
Step 5: Adding the Permanent Crown
The final step is adding the permanent crown. This step is done once the implant has successfully integrated into the jawbone, typically several months after placement.
The crown serves as the visible component of the implant and is custom-designed to match the patient’s natural teeth in size, shape, and color.
This last step ensures that the patient has a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement.
Two Types of Dental Implants
1. Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as an artificial tooth root. Made of titanium or zirconia, they offer a sturdy and durable base for a crown, bridge or denture.
The procedure involves drilling a small hole into the jawbone, where the implant is then placed. After a few months of healing, the implant fuses with the bone – a process called osseointegration – and becomes a permanent fixture in the mouth.
Endosteal implants are best for patients with healthy jawbones and sufficient bone density to support the implant.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are less common than endosteal implants and are placed on top of the jawbone rather than inside it. This type of implant is best for patients with a shallow jawbone or minimal bone density, where an endosteal implant may not be possible.
A subperiosteal implant consists of a metal framework attached to the jawbone, which is then covered by the gum. Once the gum has healed, the implant is secure and can be used as the base for a crown or bridge.
Subperiosteal implants are less invasive than endosteal implants and require less healing time. However, they may not be as durable and long-lasting as endosteal implants.
Both endosteal and subperiosteal implants offer a safe, reliable and aesthetic solution for missing teeth. The choice of implant ultimately depends on the patient’s health, jawbone density and personal preferences. To learn more about dental implants and which option is best for you, consult with a qualified dental professional.
What is the Success Rate of a Dental Implant?
Dental implants have a very high success rate, with a success rate of 95-98%. The success rate varies depending on factors such as the experience of the dental surgeon, the quality of the implant, and the overall health of the patient.
Dental implants provide a permanent solution for tooth loss and are known for their durability and functionality. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, making them a popular choice for patients looking for a long-term solution to missing teeth.
Ready for Your Dental Implants?
If you are considering dental implants, consult with an experienced and qualified dentist to learn more about your options. Your dentist will assess your oral health, discuss the process and answer any questions you may have. BellaVista DentalCare is proud to offer a full range of dental implant services for patients in Phoenix, AZ. Call us today to schedule your appointment.