Whether it be for restoration of tooth function or aesthetic appeal, dental implants are a stand-out tooth-replacement option. They are also fast becoming popular too! The billion-dollar dental implant market has had a compound annual growth rate of almost 9%, from 2020 to 2021.
They may be relatively pricey compared to other options, but they offer unique noteworthy benefits. For example, the inconvenience of constant wearing and removal, such as is found in dentures, is absent.
In addition, they are much sturdier in themselves. The support of neighboring teeth found in tooth-bridging is therefore not necessary. They are also quite durable in their own right.
A dental implant process often spans months, and can be quite tedious. However, dentist arana hills offers a hitch-free service that is sure to yield gratifying results.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are materials fitted into the jawbone to replace lost teeth. They often consist of a titanium screw-like “root” that fits into the jawbone, an abutment, and a neck that links the two. The tooth crown is worn over the abutment.
Steps involved in a dental implant procedure
- First is a visual examination of the intended site of implantation. This is by standard oral examination as well as the use of imaging procedures such as X-rays and a CT scan. This is to ascertain the thickness and health of the jawbone. The jawbone has to be thick enough for the implants. If the site is on the upper row, the examiner notes the location of the sinuses to avoid complications.
- After anesthesia and possible administration of sedatives, is the removal of the tooth in need of replacement. This is followed by the attachment of the implant in its place. If the thickness of the jawbone is not ideal for an implant, there is an addition of bone grafts before implantation. Bone grafts can be from natural bone (as in cadavers, or from another location in the body) or bone-like synthetic material.
- Next is the stitching up of the site, and the healing process. This process of healing, known as osseointegration, may take some months. It involves the fusion of the implant with the underlying alveolar bone. This creates a firm base/root for the artificial tooth cap that will crown it later.
- After significant osseointegration, the patient comes back for the fixing of an abutment. The abutment is the structure that will accommodate the tooth cap later. Sometimes, abutments are added before. However, because they jet out of the gums in a not-so-aesthetically appealing way, many prefer them fitted after osseointegration.
- After the fixing of the abutment, comes the attachment of the tooth. Depending on the choice, the tooth crown can be the fixed or the removable type.
Conclusion
Dental implant procedures have a pretty good track record of success (90%-95%). Apart from minor discomfort, or swelling after the procedure, there is little or no risk in the process. However, cases of allergies or gum/jawbone conditions may cause complications.
It is noteworthy that during the latent periods and after completion of the procedure, patients should opt for soft foods, for smooth healing. In addition, the practice of good oral hygiene is imperative. All these will culminate in the ideal and most desired gratifying results in the long run.
