If you are getting dental implants and you are a little nervous about it, do not worry; you are not alone. Some common fears include surgery, healing time, and the entire process. The good news is that dental implant surgery is a fairly common and very effective way of restoring your smile and oral function. So, if you want to know more about the process and what to expect during the treatment of dental implants in Red Deer, just read on.
Guide to the Dental Implant Process Step-by-Step
Knowing the process will make you feel more at ease. Here’s an overview of the major steps:
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Initial Consultation
The initial step is going to your dentist for a consultation. Your dentist will examine your mouth, get X-rays, and decide whether or not you are a suitable candidate for implants. If you suffer from bone loss, you might need other treatments before the surgery.
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Preparatory Procedures (If Needed)
Certain patients need bone grafting in case there is not sufficient jawbone to hold the implant. This process fortifies the site where the implant is to be fixed. If needed, extractions of the teeth are done during this process as well.
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Placing the Implant
When performing the surgery, a titanium post is driven into the jawbone. This is an artificial root for the new tooth. Under local anesthesia, the procedure is done so that there is hardly any pain.
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Osseointegration and Healing
After the implantation of the implant, some recovery time of several months where there is osseointegration that occurs. Here, the jawbone grows around the implant, and there is an anchor.
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Placement of Abutment
Once the healing process is complete, a small connector called an abutment is screwed onto the implant. This will hold the false tooth.
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Placing the Crown
The final section of the process is the placement of a dental crown that has been particularly fabricated in your mouth. The crown is fabricated to go around your own teeth, finishing your new smile.
Can You Get Dental Implants with Bone Loss?
If you’ve experienced dental implants with bone loss, you may still be eligible for treatment. Here are some possible solutions:
- Bone Grafting: Bone grafting is a routine procedure where bone material is grafted to the jaw in an effort to create a proper foundation for the future implant.
- Zygomatic Implants: An alternative option for patients with severe bone loss, using longer implants anchored in the cheekbone.
- Mini Dental Implants: Mini Dental Implants are basically smaller implants that utilize less bone structure, typically performed in instances where conventional implants are not an option.
Your dentist will assess your condition and recommend the best approach for you.
What to Expect During Recovery
Following the procedure, mild discomfort and swelling are expected. Some of the following tips will assist with recovery:
- Carefully follow your dentist’s instructions.
- Adhere to soft foods for the initial few days.
- Avoid smoking since it hinders healing.
- Practice good oral hygiene to avoid infection.
- Take prescribed pain medication, if necessary.
Most patients heal within a few days, although full healing takes several months.
Why Dental Implants Are Worth It
Despite the initial concerns, dental implants provide many benefits, including:
- Long-lasting solution: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
- Improved function: You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Natural appearance: Implants look and feel like real teeth.
- Prevention of bone loss: They help maintain jawbone structure, preventing further deterioration.
Thinking About Dental Implants
If you’re looking for dental implants, choosing an experienced dentist is key to a successful outcome. At Saby Dental, we provide high-quality implant solutions tailored to your needs. Our team ensures a smooth process from consultation to final restoration, helping you regain your confident smile.
Schedule a consultation with a trusted Red Deer dentist today and take the first step toward restoring your smile with dental implants.