If you are considering dental implant surgery to replace a missing tooth then you might be wondering what you could be letting yourself in for. That’s why I’ve created this diary of what you can expect when it comes to the process of having your implant installed.
The first consultation
To begin the process of having dental implants you will first need to speak to a specialist. If your particular dentist does not actually offer this service they are likely to be able to recommend somebody that does. Alternatively speaking to friends, family and a bit of research on the internet could soon but you in contact with an appropriate dental practice.
The dentist will discuss all of the options with you, not just dental implants. You should be sure to ask any questions that you have, don’t worry if you seem like an awkward patient! The most important thing for you is that you feel comfortable with the procedure that you are about to undertake and the person that will be conducting the surgery.
Preparing the implant site
Once you have decided to go ahead with the dental implants you will embark upon a two-stage process to actually have your prosthetic teeth fitted. The first stage is to actually prepare the site where the implant will be fitted. If the tooth itself is still in place the very first step will be an extraction.
With the tooth out of the way the dentist will then make ready the site for the implant. Your dental implants are secured into your jawbone and, in some instances, there is simply not enough healthy bone there to secure anything to. In this instance your dentist may suggest a bone graft from another area of bone in your body, or alternatively using cadaver or bovine bone. Don’t worry about this because your dentist will keep you informed and present you with the options throughout the entire process.
Inserting the new ‘root’
Where the root for your old tooth would have been the new titanium ‘root’ will be placed ready for the actual implant to be implanted. At this stage a denture or other alternative will be provided if the tooth is in a prominent position to save embarrassment while you wait for the gum to heal around the metal. This is usually a time period of three to six months though that will vary based on your individual situation.
Attaching the new tooth
Finally an artificial tooth will be created from a synthetic material to place upon the titanium root. This is a relatively simple process in comparison with the rest of the surgery and will be performed quickly. The tooth itself will match the other teeth in your mouth for the best aesthetic result.
A successful tooth implant should last from anywhere between fifteen and twenty-five years so once the procedure is completed you won’t have to worry about your tooth again for a long time!
