Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. This article will focus on the before and after process of getting a dental implant. It will include information on what a person should expect during the pre-implant assessment, the actual procedure, and post-surgical care and maintenance. We will also discuss how long it takes for the healing process to complete and what kind of results you can expect after getting a dental implant.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a popular way to get a gap-free smile, custom created to look like your natural teeth. They are artificial roots made of titanium and placed in the jawbone via oral surgery to replace missing teeth. Implants can be used alone for missing single teeth or in combination with dentures or a dental bridge to replace multiple missing teeth.
The first step towards getting dental implant surgery
When considering a dental implant, it is important to consult a dentist first. The experienced and caring dentists at Killara Dental will perform a thorough physical examination and take x-rays to determine if you have healthy gum tissue and a strong bone structure which will support a dental implant.
If this is not the case, then other treatments, such as gum disease treatment or a bone graft, may be necessary before undergoing the implant procedure.
The actual dental implant procedure
The actual procedure for placing a dental implant involves making small incisions in the gum tissue so that the dentist can insert the implant post into the jawbone. Once properly positioned, your dentist will close the area with stitches and allow time for healing before attaching an artificial tooth (known as a crown) onto the abutment or post that has been screwed into place on top of the implant.
What to expect post-operation
The healing process of the implant site after getting a dental implant typically takes several weeks; however, it can vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, overall health, type of implant used, etc. During this time, you may experience some discomfort and swelling, which should subside shortly after surgery. You may also need to limit hard foods, contact sports, and hot or cold beverages during the recovery period. Additionally, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or pain medication following the procedure to minimise the risk of infection in the implant site, which can cause severe gum disease if left unchecked or even damage the remaining teeth.
Benefits of getting implants
Whether you have gotten a single dental implant or opted for a full arch, once healed fully from surgery, you should notice significant improvements in your smile that are as important as the smile makeover.
Better appearance
Get a gap-free, radiant smile due to the replacement of missing teeth
Improved chewing ability
The increased support and surface area provided by new implants enable a better chewing action.
Decreased risk of periodontal disease
Filling in gaps in the dental arch reduces nooks bacteria can grow in. Proper cleaning and flossing around implants remove bacteria and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Improved speech
A full set of teeth enables proper movement of the tongue and regulates airflow, helping you form words clearly.
Support for adjacent teeth
Dental implants fill in empty space and act as anchors for neighbouring teeth, and prevent them from shifting along the jawbone due to missing support.
Caring for dental implants
With proper care and maintenance – including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once daily – these improvements can last many years or even decades! Remember, even after getting prosthetic teeth, a bi-annual visit to a dentist is highly recommended so they can monitor your oral health.
Are there any risks involved?
Dental implants are generally safe procedures with low risks associated with them. A dental implant requires complex surgery and, like any invasive procedure, carries risks though these are minimal and are far outweighed by the benefits.
Nerve damage
According to the BBC, a study by the King’s College London Dental Institute determined only 1% of the implant procedures carried out each year result in nerve injuries.
Rejection by the body’s immune system
Dental implant failure happens in very rare cases (about 0.6% of implant patients) where a patient is allergic to titanium, a biocompatible material commonly used to make implants.
Lack of osseointegration
It is very uncommon for a dental implant to not integrate into the patient’s jawbone. This may happen due to the patient’s medical history, smoking, poor design of the implant, and poor oral hygiene.
You can rest assured that the highly competent dentists at Killara Dental are fully aware of these and will discuss all possible risks before beginning treatment so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you and your oral health needs!
Different types of dental implants
Dental implants are custom-created to meet your requirements, fit your mouth perfectly and mimic the look, form and function of natural teeth. Depending on the number of teeth you are missing and your oral health, you would be getting any of the following:
Single Tooth Implants
A single dental implant is a screw-like post made of zirconium or titanium, surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. This type of procedure is often used when just one missing tooth needs to be replaced. Once healed, the implant post is topped with an artificial crown or bridge to restore functionality and aesthetics.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Multiple tooth implants are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth in areas where several missing teeth exist consecutively. This type of dental implant involves placing multiple posts into the jawbone and then attaching a dental bridge onto those posts for support.
Full Arch Implants
Full arch implants (also known as All-On-4 or All-On-6) are used when an entire row of missing top or bottom teeth needs replacing. These involve placing multiple posts into the jawbone along with a full arch bridge that is fitted onto these posts. Since all the missing teeth are replaced at once, this dental implant procedure helps restore proper alignment and bite while providing the patient with improved aesthetics.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are an effective way to provide stability and comfort for patients who have lost all their natural teeth but require more stability than traditional dentures can offer on their own. This type of procedure involves placing several titanium posts in the jawbone, which act as anchors for artificial dentures that clip onto them securely for maximum support and stability.
Dental implants are an increasingly popular and effective way to restore missing teeth and give you back your smile. With the right care, dental implants can last for many years or even decades! The pre-implant assessment is an important step in determining if this procedure will be successful, while post-operative care and maintenance are essential in ensuring that the implant site heals properly. While there may be some risks associated with getting dental implants, these risks are minimal compared to the benefits of restoring missing teeth.
Understanding all aspects of having a dental implant before making any decisions is key – so make sure to consult with our top-rated dentists about which type would work best for you!
Reclaim Your Smile with Dental Implants
Killara Dental is the go-to destination for patients seeking permanent tooth replacement with dental implants. Our experienced dentists will assess your suitability and develop a personalised plan to address your individual needs. We use modern equipment and advanced techniques to ensure superior results with minimal risks and discomfort during the procedure and offer interest-free payment plans to facilitate you. Reclaim your smile with confidence when you choose our implant-supported dentistry services: book an online appointment or send us a message so we can contact you! You may also call us at (02) 9100 0831 today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Allergies to Titanium Dental Implants: What Do We Really Know about Them? A Scoping Review – PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7698636/
Titanium allergy in dental implant patients: a clinical study on 1500 consecutive patients https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18705814/
Dental implant surgery – Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622
