A step-by-step guide to dental implants
Losing a tooth can have a significant impact on your smile, confidence and everyday activities like eating and speaking. Dental implants provide a remarkable solution, restoring the appearance of your smile and its function. While the process might seem intricate, understanding the steps involved can make it less daunting and help you feel more prepared.
At Staina House Dental Practice, we collaborate with trusted local specialists to place the implants. Once the implants are in place, we work alongside these specialists to craft custom crowns, bridges or dentures that beautifully restore your smile.
Keep reading for our step-by-step guide on how dental implants are placed and what you can expect throughout the process.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium fixture that acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. When a tooth is lost, the root that anchored it to the jawbone also disappears, leaving no foundation for a replacement tooth. By placing a titanium implant into the jawbone, this issue is resolved. The implant provides a stable base for an artificial tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.
This innovative solution restores the aesthetics of your smile and helps to maintain bone health by mimicking the function of a natural tooth root.
Step 1 – Consultation and Assessment
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Lancashire practice. During this visit, you can expect:
- Evaluation
We thoroughly examine your mouth to identify any underlying issues, such as gum disease or missing bone density.
- Diagnostic imaging
X-rays and 3D CT scans are taken to assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if it’s strong enough to support an implant.
- Treatment planning
Based on our findings, your dentist will create a personalised treatment plan, which will include a timeline, any preparatory procedures and a detailed cost breakdown.
If necessary, additional procedures like tooth extraction or bone grafting will be discussed. Patients with gum disease or those who smoke may require extra preparation to ensure the success of the implant. We’d always recommend smoking cessation. If you need help quitting, our experienced hygienist Linda can offer advice and guidance on where to start.
Step 2 – Preparatory Procedures (if needed)
In some cases, additional steps are required to prepare your jaw for an implant:
- Bone grafting
If your jawbone lacks sufficient density, a bone graft may be performed. This involves adding bone material to strengthen the area.
- Tooth extraction
If a damaged tooth remains at the implant site, it will need to be removed.
- Gum treatment
Patients with periodontal disease may require hygiene treatment to stabilise their gums before proceeding.
Our team will always let you know if preparatory procedures are required, giving you the chance to ask any questions you may have. You’ll be kept informed throughout the implant treatment process.
Step 3 – Implant Placement
Once your mouth is prepared, you will be invited to attend for your implant placement. This involves:
- Gum incision
A small incision is made in your gum to expose the jawbone.
- Drilling the bone
A precise hole is drilled into the bone to create space for the implant.
- Inserting the implant
The titanium implant is carefully positioned in the bone.
This procedure can take one to two hours, and sutures may be placed to close the incision. You’ll be provided with aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. Although the procedure may sound daunting, it is something our dentists perform successfully on a regular basis. If you have any worries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Step 4 – Healing and Osseointegration
After the implant is placed, your body begins a natural process called osseointegration, where the jawbone fuses with the implant. This process typically takes 3-6 months for the lower jaw and up to 7 months for the upper jaw.
During this time, you may receive a temporary crown or denture to maintain the appearance of your smile. We will provide you with aftercare instructions and you must follow these to prevent complications and ensure successful integration.
Step 5 – Placing the Abutment
Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, the next step is to attach the abutment. The abutment is a connector that holds the artificial tooth securely in place. The gum is reopened to expose the implant and the abutment is then attached to the implant.
Step 6 – Creating and Placing the Artificial Tooth
The final step in the process is the placement of the artificial tooth or teeth.
- Impressions
We take detailed moulds of your teeth and gums to create a customised crown, bridge or denture.
- Temporary crown
While the permanent tooth is being made, you’ll wear a temporary crown.
- Permanent placement
Once ready, the permanent tooth is affixed to the abutment.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits, especially for older adults. With proper care, implants may last a lifetime, and they feel and function like natural teeth. Implants also prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintaining your facial structure and preventing a ‘sunken’ appearance. And, last but not least, they completely restore your smile – leaving you feeling confident.
Our talented dentist David Baybutt has extensive experience in creating high-quality implant-retained crowns, bridges and dentures. Working closely with trusted specialists in Lancashire, we ensure that every step of the implant process is seamless and tailored to your needs.
Are dental implants right for me?
While dental implants are an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as overall health, smoking habits and jawbone density all play a part in whether they’re right for you.
We encourage you to schedule a consultation with our Garstang team to explore your options and develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs.
Book a consultation today
Reclaim your smile and the confidence that comes with it. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through every stage of the dental implant process, from the initial consultation to the final restoration. To find out more about dental implants, book an appointment with our Lancashire team by calling 01995 605707. We look forward to hearing from you.
