Putney Dentist

Here is a detailed overview of what the dental implant process entails.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The journey to getting dental implants begins with an initial consultation at the dental clinic. During this visit, the dental team will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. It comprises assessing your medical and dental history, taking X-rays, and potentially utilising 3D imaging to evaluate the state of your jawbone and surrounding structures. This comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. The dental team will discuss your goals and expectations, ensuring you receive personal yet professional service throughout the process.

Treatment Planning

After the initial evaluation, the dental team will develop a customised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan outlines the entire procedure, from the initial dental surgery to the final placement of the prosthetic tooth or teeth. The treatment plan is crucial for setting clear expectations and timelines, helping to alleviate any dental anxiety you might have about the process. The team will explain all dental procedures involved, ensuring you are fully informed of the planned treatment.

Pre-Surgery Preparations

Before dental surgery, certain preparations are necessary to ensure the best possible outcome. This may include treating any existing dental issues such as gum disease or decayed teeth. The dental clinic will provide instructions on how to prepare for the dental surgery, including any medications or dietary restrictions to take or avoid. These preparations are essential to create an optimal environment for the implant procedure.

Dental Implant Surgery

The actual implant procedure is performed in stages. The first stage involves placing the dental implant into the jawbone. This surgery is typically done under local anaesthesia, which helps to manage pain and reduce dental anxiety. During the surgical process, the dentist will incise the gum to uncover the bone, proceeding to bore a hole for implant insertion. The implant, usually made of titanium, is placed into the jawbone. This stage is critical as it sets the foundation for the prosthetic tooth.

Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant is placed, a healing period is required for osseointegration, where the jawbone grows around the implant, anchoring it securely. This process can take several months, and during this time, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. The dental clinic may provide a temporary crown or denture to maintain aesthetics and functionality during the healing period. This stage is vital for ensuring the stability and longevity of the implant.

Abutment Placement

After osseointegration has finalised, the subsequent step is the insertion of the abutment, a small connector that connects to the implant and anchors the replacement tooth or teeth. This stage may entail a minor surgical procedure to reopen the gum and secure the abutment. In some cases, the abutment is placed during the initial surgery. This step is essential for providing a stable base for the prosthetic tooth.

Creating the Prosthetic Tooth

After positioning the abutment, impressions of your teeth will be taken by the dental team to produce a tailored prosthetic tooth or teeth. These impressions guarantee that the replacement teeth blend seamlessly with your real teeth in shape, size, and hue. The prosthetic selections may comprise crowns, bridges, or dentures, contingent upon the quantity of teeth necessitating replacement. This phase is critical for achieving a natural appearance and oral function.

Final Placement

The final stage involves attaching the custom-made prosthetic teeth to the abutment. This step usually requires only minor adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. The dentist will check the alignment, bite, and appearance of the prosthetic teeth to ensure they are comfortable and functional. This final placement is the culmination of the implant process, resulting in a restored smile.