Dental implants are the most excellent method for achieving a transformative smile. It entails the placement of a post that serves as an artificial tooth root to replace a missing tooth. This restorative dental treatment involves surgically attaching the post, resembling a dental screw, to the patient's jawbone. Here are the three stages of getting dental implants:
Pre-surgical Phase
During this stage, the oral surgeon will offer pre-operative instructions that you must follow diligently. As a precaution, you will be prescribed antibiotics for a few days before the process. Additionally, you'll be asked to use a mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and minimize the risk of infection. The surgeon will advise you to have a nutritious breakfast before your appointment. You must also arrange your transport to and from the clinic for added safety and convenience.
Surgery Phase
This stage of the treatment involves two parts: the placement of dental posts and the abutment into the jawbone. The first part is to place the implants. The oral surgeon applies local anesthesia to numb the surgical site. The surgeon then exposes the jawbone by accessing your gums and creates the necessary space for the implant using dental tools. Subsequently, the implant is carefully inserted into the prepared area. The site is closed with stitches. After this initial phase, you will be sent home to allow for a few months of healing before the second part of the surgery. The healing process typically takes about three to four months.
The second part entails abutment placement, which connects the implanted post and the dental restoration. In this phase, the surgeon opens the gums again, positions the abutment on the post's top, and seals the area back up. Digital impressions of the tooth are then taken to create an accurate model for your restoration. After a few days, you return to the clinic, and the dental crown is securely fixed onto the implant, completing the dental implant placement process.
Post-Surgery
This is the recovery stage. It is crucial to follow all instructions provided by your dental provider. Consume soft foods to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the surgical site. You should also take care when brushing and flossing your teeth to prevent disturbing the healing process and causing any bleeding.