Dental Implant Procedure Basics

Dental implant parts

Your dentist may suggest a dental implant procedure as a solution to dental problem you have. Implants are a popular method to replace lost or missing teeth and return natural function.

The reasons for getting an implant vary from patient to patient.

• Tooth replacement is a common one;
• Sometimes cosmetic reasons play into the decision;
• Better function, which could lead to better oral health, is an important consideration;
• Dental implants provide strong support for a partial denture or bridge.
• Dental implant dentures are another reason for selecting this method.

When considering this treatment, it is essential to understand all that is involved. This includes possible dental implant problems that could turn up.

Research the topic and see whether affordable dental implants are possible in your situation. Ask several dentists, and compare their dental implant estimates.

The Basic Components

Dental implants consist of three fundamental components. These are the post, the abutment, and the crown (tooth replacement).

1. The titanium post or “fixture” – This forms the basis of the procedure. These small metal objects act as an artificial root. Often resembling a screw, the posts are gently placed securely within the jawbone. Once in place, posts provide support for a crown, a bridge an partial denture;
   
   
2. Abutment – This is an extension to the implant. A cap-like device, it screws directly on to the implant. Its purpose is to make sure the artificial tooth remains in place;
   
   
3. Crown – Another name for this is the tooth. This is the actual prosthesis or replacement tooth. Human-made it resembles a natural tooth and fulfils the same functions. The dentist may call it the restoration.
   

The Standard Dental Implant Procedure

The standard procedure can take several months and may begin with the extraction of the affected tooth or teeth. You and your dentist will determine the treatment plan and schedule.

The dentist cleans the area and surgically inserts the implants (made of titanium which fuses with the bone). The dentist then makes sure the gums are sanitized.

You and the dentist wait for the bones to fuse with the implants before advancing to stage two.

Several months later (3-6 months), the dentist and or the team freeze the gums and uncover the implants.

Next, the team attaches the abutments and temporary crowns. The patient then returns home to wait another few weeks.

On return, the dentist will take impressions of the entire area treated by the implants.

Next, the impressions are sent to a dental lab to fabricate custom made crowns.

Then, the patient returns to the dentist to replace (to implant) the temporary crowns with the permanent crowns.

Dental specialists refer to this as "loading" the implants.

When this is done, the patient will have back his smile and freely eat unhindered by lost teeth.

A One-Stage Procedure

Instead of a gradual process, the dentist can perform a one-stage surgical procedure.

The actual components remain the same but the dentist compresses everything into a single operation. This procedure is most common for back teeth.

The decision to opt for a single-step operation is one only a dentist can make.

If you require bone grafting, this is not the method for you. Moreover, reducing the steps to a single one may not have an effect on the overall dental implants cost.

Proceeding Ahead

A dental implant procedure is not to be undertaken lightly. While the risk is low, the upfront cost of dental implants may be prohibitive.

On the other hand, dental implants are among the most natural way to restore lost or missing teeth.

Moreover, they tend to be very durable and may be cost-effective long-term.

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