Dental Implants: What Is Involved?

Despite the advances in the science of dentistry, thousands of patients suffer from tooth loss – normally because of gum problems, mouth injury or tooth decay. For several decades, the treatment for those suffering from missing teeth were dentures and bridges. Fortunately, a great invention today is dental implants.

What does a dental implant procedure involve?

1. Dental implant treatment begins with the construction of a customized plan of treatment. This plan handles one’s requirements and is created by a team of dentists trained in restorative dentistry and oral surgery. The team approach offers coordinated care that ensures the best treatment possible.
   
2. The second step pertains to implant of the tooth root, a tiny post created out of titanium, to be placed in the missing tooth’s bone socket. With time, the jawbone starts to heal and starts cultivating around the metal post, fixing it firmly within the patient’s jaw. The whole treatment can last for six to twelve weeks.
   
3. Once the prosthetic has bonded with the jawbone, a connector post known as an abutment is fixed on the post for holding the new projection securely.
   
4. To create a custom-made crown, your dental expert will take tooth impressions, and develop a prototype of your bite. The new artificial tooth will be based on this specific model. Once created, the crown will get fixed to the support.
   
5. Your dental expert will also make sure the color of your natural teeth and new teeth match. Since the implant is affixed to the jawbone, the substitute feels, functions and looks just like your natural teeth.
   
6. After the procedure, you may feel slight soreness that can be treated with the help of an over-the-counter pain medication.

The success rate of dental implants differ, depending on where they have been placed within the mouth. But, in general, implants have a success rate of approximately 98%. If proper care is taken, implants can even last a lifetime. Dental implants need the same kind of maintenance as your real teeth, including flossing, brushing, and regular dental check-ups. It is also important to choose a dentist wisely to make sure the procedure goes on successfully and without a hitch. One of the best ways to look for an expert in implants is to take recommendations from friends and family and visit BBB. You should judge a clinic or a dentist by three main parameters- price, services offered, and experience of the dentist. Also, make sure the clinic offers emergency dentist open Sunday services in case you land into a medical emergency during the wee hours or during weekends.