When you lose a tooth due to disease or injury, you can experience complications such as defective speech, rapid bone loss, or changes to chewing patterns that cause discomfort. Restoring a lost tooth with a dental implant can significantly enhance the quality of life and health. If you have lost one or multiple teeth, dental implant specialist Sunnyvale, CA, can help you restore your smile and dental health. The dental implant procedure needs multiple steps over around three to nine months. You might require the help of several dental specialists before completing the treatment. Here is a look at what you should expect when getting a dental implant.
Evaluation
The first step of dental implants is evaluating your gums, teeth, and jawbone. An essential part of the initial assessment is determining if you have sufficient healthy jawbone to maintain the dental implant. If your jawbone is too thin, a bone graft is recommended before starting the dental implant process. You should also be free from gum disease. The number of teeth you are looking to replace will determine the scope and type of the procedure.
Placing The Implant
There are two main types of dental implants. Endosteal implants are the most common and are normally surgically inserted deep into the jawbone, where they replace the tooth roots. Subperiosteal implants are used when you don’t have sufficient healthy jawbone to support the endosteal implant. These implants are implanted under the gum on the bone but are not drilled into the jawbone. Regardless of the type of dental implant you receive, expect to experience some swelling and discomfort afterward for some days.
Osseointegration
After your dental implant is installed, it will take about six months before sufficient new bone growth occurs around the installed screw. This process is referred to as osseointegration. During this procedure, natural jaw bone grows around your dental implant to keep the dental implant firmly in place to function as your artificial tooth’s root.
Abutment Placement
The abutment is a metal extender that links the replacement tooth to the dental implant. This might be done during the initial or a second minor procedure. The abutment is screwed on the dental implant and the gum tissue contours around it.
Placing The Artificial Tooth
After your gum completely heals, your dentist will take your teeth impression, which is sent to the laboratory to make your permanent replacement tooth fit. The teeth can be removable or fixed. If you choose a removable tooth, it will be mounted on a mental frame and attached to the abutment. These teeth are removable at home for daily cleaning. When you opt for a fixed tooth, it will be permanently screwed or cemented on the abutment. After the dental implant is complete, inform your dentist if you feel any uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling, bleeding, severe pain, discomfort, and uncomfortable bite.
Ultimately, dental implants are long-lasting devices that offer proper support for artificial teeth such as bridges, crowns, and dentures. After your dental implant procedure, ensure to follow proper dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for the long-term success of your implant. Dental implants look natural and can last for a few decades.