Your Gentle Care Dentist Near Abbotsford

Initial Consultation and Assessment

The journey towards obtaining dental implants begins with an initial consultation at a dental practice. During this visit, the dentist will assess your overall oral health to find out if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. This involves a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, as well as imaging studies like X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and identify any underlying problems such as tooth decay or gum disease.

Treatment Planning

Once the assessment is complete and it is confirmed that you are a good candidate for dental implants, the next step involves detailed treatment planning. The dentist will develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your distinct needs and oral health condition. This plan will outline the entire procedure, including the number of implants required, the type of implants, and the anticipated timeline for the treatment. The goal is to ensure that the dental implants will integrate seamlessly with your existing teeth and contribute to optimal oral health.

Tooth Extraction (if essential)

In cases where a damaged tooth is still present, it may need to be extracted before the tooth implant can be placed. This step is crucial to prepare the site for the implant. The extraction procedure is conducted under local anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Once the tooth is removed, the site is allowed to heal, which may take several weeks.

Jawbone Preparation and Grafting

If the jawbone lacks sufficient density or volume to support an implant, bone grafting may be necessary. This procedure involves adding bone material to the jaw to create a steady base for the implant. The bone graft can be sourced from another part of your body or a synthetic material. After grafting, a healing period is required to allow the bone to integrate and strengthen, ensuring the jaw is robust enough to support the dental implant.

Implant Placement

Once the jawbone is ready, the next step is the surgical placement of the tooth implant. This procedure is performed under local anaesthesia or sedation, depending on the patient’s preference and the complexity of the case. The dentist will make a cut in the gum tissue to uncover the bone, then insert a titanium implant post into a drilled hole. This post acts as a replacement tooth root and is securely anchored into the jawbone. After placement, the gum is sutured closed, and the implant is left to heal and integrate with the bone over several months.

Osseointegration

The healing process, known as osseointegration, is critical for the success of the dental implant. During this period, the jawbone grows around the implant, firmly anchoring it in place. This process can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on individual healing rates and the quality of the bone. Maintaining optimal oral health during this time is essential to ensure proper integration and prevent complications.

Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is accomplished, the subsequent stage involves securing an abutment onto the implant post. This dental abutment serves as a connector between the tooth implant and the eventual prosthetic tooth. This minor surgical procedure involves reopening the gum tissue to expose the implant, then attaching the abutment. Next, the gum tissue undergoes healing around the abutment, typically taking a couple of weeks.

Prosthetic Tooth Placement

The final stage of the dental implant procedure is the placement of the prosthetic tooth. An impression of your mouth is taken to create a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that matches the colour and size of your real teeth. Once the prosthetic is ready, it is securely attached to the abutment, completing the restoration. The result is a natural-looking, functional tooth that enhances both your appearance and oral health.