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What is involved in the dental implant treatment?

Initial Consultation and Planning

The first step in the dental implant process is an initial consultation. This entails a thorough examination of the patient’s oral health to assess the suitability for dental implants. The dental crew will take detailed images of the mouth, including X-rays or CT scans, to evaluate bone density and determine the optimal placement for the implants. This stage sets the groundwork for a tailored treatment plan, ensuring that each patient receives care that is specifically aligned with their dental needs.

Preparatory Procedures

Some patients may require preparatory procedures before proceeding with dental surgery for implants. This could include periodontal treatment to address any gum disease or bone grafting to enhance the jawbone’s thickness and strength, ensuring it can support the implant securely. These preliminary steps are critical for the long-term success of the implant.

The Dental Surgery: Implant Placement

The tooth implant placement is a surgical procedure performed under local anaesthesia or sedation, aiming to minimise discomfort. During this stage, a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to act as a prosthetic tooth root.

Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant is placed, a significant healing period follows, allowing for osseointegration to occur. This phase is crucial, as the successful integration of the implant with the jawbone is foundational for the stability and longevity of the implant. Patients are given specific aftercare instructions to support optimal healing during this time.

Abutment Placement and Impressions

Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant. The dental abutment serves as a connection point for the final crown or prosthetic tooth. Impressions of the mouth are then taken, which will be used to create the crown, ensuring it matches the colour and size of the surrounding natural teeth.

Fitting of the Prosthetic Tooth

The final stage of the implant dentistry process involves fitting the custom-made crown onto the abutment. This prosthetic tooth is designed to blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth, restoring the aesthetic appearance and functional capabilities of their smile. The dental team meticulously adjusts the crown to ensure a comfortable and natural fit.

Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance

Following the completion of the tooth implant treatment, patients enter a maintenance phase. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to monitor the health of the implant and the surrounding tissue. Quality dental care, combined with good oral hygiene practices at home, will help extend the life of the dental implants and maintain overall oral health.

What is sleep dentistry?

Sleep dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax or sleep through their dental procedure.

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency refers to any urgent dental issue that requires immediate attention to relieve severe pain, control bleeding, or address serious infections. This can include situations requiring emergency dental treatments, such as severe infections around wisdom teeth or traumatic injuries affecting the teeth and gums.