Dental implant is one of the best forms of tooth restoration techniques. It strengthens your tooth’s integrity by supporting the jawbone from within, improving both the dental functionality and aesthetics.
This blog aims to discuss the preparatory steps of this procedure along with aftercare tips for maintaining the treatment’s longevity. Read on below for details.
A brief introduction to dental implant procedure
It is a long-term dental solution to replace missing teeth, while maintaining their overall natural look. Being moderately invasive, this process involves surgery and anaesthesia.
Dental implants are titanium posts that are installed deep into the jawbone. The metal can naturally fuse with the bone, leading to greater success rates pos-treatment.
Bone grafting, a pre-surgical procedure may be needed for individuals having bone density problems. This prepares the base before installation of the titanium post.
After the implantation site has fully healed, screws are placed. This is known as the abutment. Over that, artificial crowns are installed – this completes the process.
Working process of tooth implant: Steps Explained
Understanding how tooth implants work is essential before obtaining the treatment. Here is a quick guide below to help you.
- Anaesthesia application
Since it is an invasive procedure, the performing dentist will first give local anaesthesia. This prevents painful sensation while the process is being carried out.
- Implantation of the titanium post
A titanium alloy post (appears much like a screw) is placed within the jawbone. For this, a small incision is first made into the gum tissue. After implantation, you will need to wait for around three months. This is to promote healing of the operated site. Depending on your specific health conditions, the recovery period may significantly differ. A removable denture is often placed temporarily over the site. It helps improve aesthetics.
- Osseointegration
Post-installation of the dental implant, new bone needs to form around it. This helps in integration of the jawbone with the artificial post. As mentioned before, the step takes about two to six months (maximum). During this, it will strengthen the natural jawbone. The implant actually serves as an artificial tooth root for supporting the prosthetics (to be placed in future).
- Abutment placement
A metal extension in the form of screw is added to the implant. It connects the implant with the ‘prosthetic’ crown. The dentist needs to make a minor cut in the overgrown gum tissue surrounding the implant; during this process. A healing cap is placed afterwards to protect the abutment. This also prevents tissue regrowth.
- Installation of the prosthetic tooth
After a few weeks have passed, your dentist will schedule the next appointment. In this, he will take dental impressions for customising your crown. In case you opt for removable crown, a metal frame will be attached to the abutment. You can clean it daily. However, for fixed solution; the dentist will permanently cement your artificial crown over the abutment.
Preparations to take before a dental implant surgery
- Research about dental implant specialists
This is crucial for securing the success of tooth implant technique. Take time to evaluate oral, maxillofacial surgeons available locally along with periodontists, prosthodontists and ENTs.
- Collect your previous medical reports
It is important to inform your concerned professional about previous medical conditions. This will help him understand if implant is suitable for you. Also, what medicines you took must be noted down.
- Avoid unhealthy habits that can harm your teeth
Practices such as smoking, taking alcohol, etc., may affect your oral health, including teeth. Thus, it is recommended not to resort to them altogether.
- Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine
Brush twice daily and floss after main meals to prevent dental infections. If possible, you can take the assistance of a dental hygienist, too. He will guide on the necessary steps.
Dental implant aftercare: Why is it important?
To promote the healing process, it is essential not to remove the blood clot that has formed at the implant site. This will help prevent future infection risks. Here is a list of some common post-treatment steps for you to follow.
- Avoid harsh physical activity
Do not perform heavy workouts, especially after the surgery. Physical exertion can cause pain and bleeding to the implant region. It is better to wait for a few days and then resume exercise routine.
- Stay away from activities that may hurt the mouth
Avoid sucking liquids with straw, spitting, and washing the mouth rigorously. This is because they can put unnecessary pressure in the mouth, pulling out the blood clot from its site.
- Get proper oral care
Your dentist may recommend you to rinse the mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash or lukewarm salt solution, frequently. But, take care not to swish it aggressively as that may dislodge the blood clot.
- Take antibiotics and pain killers timely
Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics even before the start of the dental implant procedure. This helps prevent future infections from growing into the implant site. After the surgery, over-the-counter pain medications will also be given.
- Keep a check on diet
Do not have any food or drink until the anaesthesia effect has gone away. Also, keep in mind not to eat extremely hot or cold eatables. This is because that can be dangerously sensitive to your teeth.
For the initial days, stick to a soft diet that is also nutritious. Gradually, introduce complex items into your diet. Some foods that you must avoid at any cost are: popcorn, walnuts, seeded fruits, etc.
Conclusion
It is common to experience side effects like bleeding, swelling and pain for the initial days, post-treatment. These generally go away within a short time. However, if the symptoms continue to persist, turn to your dentist for medical help.
If you are opting for dental implants in London, a thorough insight will be provided to you regarding the procedure. Additional aftercare procedures, follow-ups, will be also explained to you by the concerned professional. So, start on your journey to obtaining better dental health, today!
