The Simplest Explanation of the Dental Implant Process Yet
The Simplest Explanation of the Dental Implant Process Yet
If you’re having dental problems and are considering dental implants as a solution to them, it’s a good idea to learn about the dental implant process before you make any decisions about your dental restoration. Knowing what to expect makes planning easier and can help ensure there aren’t any inconvenient surprises along the way. Here’s a rundown of the steps involved in getting dental implants in Indianapolis to help you make solid, well-informed decisions about your care.
DO YOU NEED DENTAL IMPLANTS?
While dental implants are the best way to replace teeth that are beyond saving, keeping your natural teeth is, by far, your best option. So if you have doubts about whether advice to have teeth extracted is sound or feel that a clinic may be pushing more extensive – and expensive – care than you need, get a second opinion. On the other hand, if you have broken or decayed teeth that must come out or you’ve already lost teeth and are living with ill-fitting dentures or an unstable fixed bridge, there’s little doubt that you need dental implants.
CHOOSING YOUR INDIANAPOLIS ORAL SURGEON
Getting dental implants in Indianapolis is a big investment in your oral health, so you’ll want to take the time to choose your oral surgeon carefully. Choose one that has years of experience, high success rates with dental implant placement, a reputation for quality care and who works with the best dental restoration specialists in the area.
The Consultation
Once you’ve chosen a great oral surgeon in Indianapolis, a consultation appointment will be scheduled. During this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your oral and general health, the amount and quality of bone in the jaw and other factors that can affect implant placement by means of a thorough physical exam and diagnostic imaging – generally done with 3-D imaging technology. Once that evaluation is complete, your surgeon will recommend a treatment plan for your dental implant restoration.
Dental Implant Placement
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, during which the titanium cylinders – your dental implants – that will form the foundation of your dental restoration will be surgically implanted into the jawbone. First, anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort. Then, your surgeon will make an incision in your gum and drill a tiny hole in the jawbone, into which the implant will be inserted. Depending upon the number of implants you need, the procedure may take anywhere from one hour to three.
Dental Restoration
In traditional, multi-stage implant placement, restoration begins after a healing period of two to three months. During that time, bone tissue will grow around the implants, fusing them to the jawbone. Patients are typically provided with a temporary denture to wear during this time. When your implants are bonded, your surgeon will attach abutments to hold your replacement teeth. After another short healing period, your crown, implant-supported bridge or permanent dentures, custom crafted to meet your functional and aesthetic needs, will be placed, completing your dental restoration.
The dental restoration process is a bit different when single-stage procedures are done. Procedures like All-on-Four or Teeth in a Day are done with immediate load implants, reducing the number of steps necessary to complete dental restoration. If your surgeon determines that you’re a good candidate for a single-stage procedure, temporary prosthetics may be placed on the same day as dental implants.
The final steps are all up to you, but they are very simple. Brush, floss and see your dentist regularly for checkups. With good oral hygiene, that brilliant new smile you’ve achieved with dental implants in Indianapolis can last a lifetime.