Dental implants are the premium option for replacing missing teeth. These FDA-approved medical appliances enhance your appearance, oral health, and quality of life.
Preparing for the dental implant procedure can feel overwhelming. However, if you follow the advice of your dentist, the treatment will go smoothly, and you’ll restore your smile.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are a natural-looking tooth replacement option if you need to replace one or more teeth. These restorations are artificial teeth that consist of a titanium screw that gets surgically placed into the jawbone.
The procedure involves multiple steps and usually requires several visits, but the first stage is the implant placement. After your dentist places the metal post, it requires three to six months to integrate with the bone. Then, your dentist attaches a customized restoration that resembles your natural tooth to the implant.
While treatment looks different for every patient, you can expect the process to take six months to a year to complete. It is important to follow your dentist’s recommendations and instructions to guarantee a successful procedure.
Dental Implants Preparation
Learning about the dental implant process will help you understand what to expect.
Consultation
During your first appointment, your dentist will evaluate your oral health using X-rays and a visual examination. The dental team will use this assessment to determine whether you are a candidate.
This procedure requires enough jawbone to insert the dental implant for a successful outcome. Some patients require pre-implant procedures like tooth extractions to create a stable foundation.
Custom Treatment Plan
After the consultation, your dentist creates a custom treatment plan for your dental implants. This plan indicates additional procedures needed to prepare you for implant placement.
Pre-Implant Treatment
You want your dental implant treatment to be successful, look natural, and last a long time, which may require additional treatment before implant placement. These procedures will create a solution that feels and looks natural.
Most people with good oral and overall health will not need preliminary appointments. However, it’s not uncommon to require prep work. Some of the common preliminary treatments include:
- Tooth extractions
- Gum disease treatment
- Bone grafting
- Sinus lift
A sinus lift is another form of bone grafting. This step is necessary for those who don’t have enough bone to place an implant without it penetrating the sinus cavity.
Before Dental Implant Surgery
You may have a few tasks to complete before the day of your appointment. If you are undergoing sedation, you must find someone over the age of 18 to drive you to and from the office. There may also be some prescriptions to fill. Taking these medications as directed to prevent infections or other complications is vital.
Smoking can interfere with the healing process, so it is best to stop smoking before surgery. It can also impact your level of sedation during treatment.
Are You Ready for Dental Implants?
There are many steps for restoring your missing teeth with dental implants. Preparing in advance will give you the best chance at a successful procedure. If you’re ready to start this journey, contact Pinnacle Dentistry. Our team offers high-quality dental implants that help you regain your confidence. Call us today.
