What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent anchors that integrate with the jawbone to provide a stable base for long-term tooth replacement. Customized crowns (the teeth) are then attached to the implants.

Because dental implants become part of the jaw, they look and feel like natural teeth. They don’t move or slip around while you eat or talk.

 

 

Compare Teeth Replacement Options

You can put an end to dealing with missing teeth or repetitive dental work with dental implants. Take a look at how dental implants compare to traditional bridges and dentures.

 

 

How long do they last?

Dental Implants: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Dentures: They typically last 5-7 years.
Bridges: Traditional bridges typically last 7-10 years.

 

 

How do they keep my mouth healthy?

Dental Implants: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, like natural tooth roots, preventing the jawbone from deteriorating. They can be precisely placed without damaging healthy surrounding teeth.
Dentures: Dentures accelerate jawbone loss, and they can cause gum irritation and sores.
Bridge: To attach a traditional bridge, healthy teeth are ground down, permanently damaging them.

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Implant process overview

 

When you get dental implants, you are replacing the tooth roots with tooth posts made of metal. These dental posts are like screws for artificial teeth. Implants are a little different than some bridges or crowns because they function and look like real teeth.

 

How Dr. James performs the dental procedure depends on the implant you need if you have any allergic reaction and the condition of the jawbone.

 

You may have to have several dental procedures so that your bone can heal properly around the implant. This healing could take time but will support the new tooth securely.

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1. Initial Evaluation

 

Dr. James will first do a comprehensive examination to determine the best to determine condition of your jawbone and the best dental implant procedure. This initial evaluation includes X-rays, taking impressions, and matching the color of your teeth to make your implant look as natural as possible.

 

You will determine how many teeth you want to replace with implants, which could take some additional planning with other dental specialists, like periodontists, depending on your oral health condition.

 

You will also discuss all your medical conditions and medications. Depending on your condition or orthopedic implants, you may need to take antibiotics before the surgery to avoid infection.

 

2. Tooth Extraction

 

If you still have a remaining tooth that needs replacing, your dentist will remove it before the dental work is performed. You can have this done at the same time as the implant insertion.

 

Dr. James will discuss anesthesia options. Most likely, your dentist will use a local anesthetic of novocaine (or lidocaine) to feel numb and take away any pain. It shouldn't take long to remove the tooth unless it's fractured.

 

You will just feel a little tug and pressure while the tooth is extracted. After you get the extraction, you should avoid blowing your nose, smoking, spitting excessively, or drinking through a straw. These actions can create a dry socket and pain.

 

 

3. Inserting the Dental Implant and Bone Grafting

 

There are two types of dental implants: one where the implant is inserted into your jawbone and the other that goes directly under the gumline. Let's discuss if you have the implant added to your jawbone. If your current jawbone is strong and thick enough, you may not need to get any extra bone added.

 

Your jaw needs to be strong because there is a lot of pressure when you chew, and you need your bone to be strong to protect that implant. If your jaw needs some extra bone, this bone typically comes from another area of your jawbone away from the implant area.

 

You may have to let the bone heal first if you have a graft before you can add the implant. Once the bone heals, the dentist or surgeon will add the implant.

 

After the implant is added to your jawbone, the jawbone will begin to grow around the implant. The implant then becomes part of your natural gum line. This process varies by person and can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months.

 

 

 

4. Abutment Placement

 

Once your implant is stable enough, Dr. James will place an abutment on top of the implant. This piece connects the implant to your crown. The abutment needs to be tightened so it stays in place when you eat.

 

You will not feel anything during this procedure other than a little pressure. You will get local anesthesia in that area.

 

Sometimes the abutment can be placed at the same time as the implant since it goes past the gum line. It will be visible, so you will need to discuss how to mask this piece since it will show when you smile. Dr. James will add a healing cap to keep the tissue and bone from growing overtop of the abutment.

 

 

5. Adding the Permanent Crown

 

After your gums heal, Dr. James will make your artificial tooth or crown. You can choose to have a removable implant or a permanent one.

 

If you are having multiple teeth in the back just like removable dentures, you may want the removable option so you can clean and replace them if needed.

 

You can't remove a fixed implant to replace or to clean. It is permanently screwed in the abutment or glued down with cement.

 

 

Other Things You Should Know About Dental Implant Steps

 

Choosing dental implants is a big decision. They may be expensive, but the success rate is about 90-95 percent. Here are some other things to keep in mind.

Your jawbone needs to heal during this process, so there are multiple steps. It's not a procedure you can get done in one visit.

You will not have a tooth until you add your crown. You will need to discuss temporary options like a retainer, dental flippers, or a temporary crown with your dentist.

 

 

After the Surgery

 

It's natural to have some discomfort after the surgery. You may notice some bruising on your gums, swelling around your gums and face, some minor bleeding, and some pain at the implant site.

 

You should stock up on some soft foods after the surgery. You may also want to have some ice packs on hand to help reduce any swelling. Avoid tobacco because it could increase your chance of infections, such as root canal infections, and stain your teeth. We also offer root canal treatment.

 

It's important that you keep up good hygiene habits to protect this implant. That means flossing daily and brushing your teeth twice a day. Avoid chewing hard candies that could damage your implants.

 

 

Ready for Your Dental Implants?

 

Now you know the dental implant steps. It's important you take time to talk to your dentist or surgeon to answer all your questions and understand the procedure. If you are looking for a dentist for dental implants or other dental services, contact Dr. Leon D James today to schedule an appointment.