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Apr
The 8-step process of getting dental implants
Quality dental implants are a highly successful tooth replacement option used by our team at Vital Dental in Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Mitul Patel and his team may recommend them to patients seeking permanent smile restoration after tooth loss. Let’s look at the process of getting dental implants and the steps involved in restoring the smile’s function, appearance, and health.
The steps to getting dental implants
- Consultation visit at our office. Before patients in and around the Sarasota, Florida, area obtain dental implants, they start with an initial evaluation with Dr. Patel and his team. This first appointment involves thoroughly examining the patient’s mouth, including X-rays and scans, to determine if quality dental implants are viable. The dentist also discusses the patient’s medical history and potential risk factors.
- Treatment planning. Once it has been decided that dental implants are suitable for the patient, the next step is creating a treatment plan. This includes deciding on the type of implant, location in the mouth, and number of implants needed. Dr. Patel works closely with the patient to meet their unique needs and expectations.
- Preparatory procedures (if necessary). In certain cases, patients might require additional procedures before getting dental implants. These may include bone grafting or tooth extractions. These procedures may be necessary to ensure that the jawbone is strong enough to support the implants and that there is enough space for them to be placed.
- Implant placement surgery. The procedure for placing dental implants typically takes about one to two hours per implant. It involves making an incision into the gum tissue, creating a small hole into the jawbone, and then placing the implant into the hole. The gum tissue is then closed with stitches. Patients might experience some mild discomfort after the surgery, but this is usually managed with pain medication prescribed by the dentist.
- Healing and osseointegration. After the implant placement surgery, it takes approximately three to six months for the implant to integrate fully with the jawbone. During the initial healing period, patients must follow a soft food diet, and they will need to continue practicing good oral hygiene to ensure proper healing.
- Abutment placement. Once the implant has fused with the entire jawbone, a tiny connecting component, known as an abutment, is positioned on top of it. This serves as the foundation for the artificial tooth or teeth that will be attached later.
- Customized dental prosthetic creation and placement. After the abutment is in place, impressions or scans are taken of the patient’s mouth to create a customized dental prosthetic (crown, bridge, or denture). These are then attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant process.
- Follow-up visits and maintenance. Patients must attend regular follow-up appointments with their dentist to ensure the success of their dental implants. Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing, are also essential for maintaining the health of the implants.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants for missing teeth?
Your first appointment is the best way to help our team decide if you are a proper candidate for this treatment. Schedule a visit to Vital Dental in Sarasota, Florida, by calling (941) 371-2022 to request an upcoming visit.