According to a 2023 report by Statista.com, approximately 57% of people living in the United States had experienced at least one dental health issue in the past year. Oral health is just as important as physical health, and when overlooked, may lead to more severe problems.

Dental implants are used to replace the structure of a damaged or decayed tooth. The implants prevent bone loss in the affected tooth, allowing for better chewing and a more natural-looking smile.



In this article, we outline the step-by-step process of dental implants to help you achieve a more confident smile.

Initial Consultation

Preparation

In several cases, the dentist will need to perform preparatory procedures to ensure the success of the dental implant surgery. For instance, if there's a remaining tooth that needs to be replaced, the oral care professional will have to extract it before the dental implant procedure.

Furthermore, in case your jawbone has insufficient density, your dentist will recommend a bone graft before installing an implant. A bone graft prolongs the treatment and recovery time, but provides a strong foundation for a dental implant.

Your dentist may offer anesthesia options to numb the area during tooth extraction. This process should take a short time if the tooth isn't fractured. To prevent pain and create a dry socket, avoid the following after tooth extraction:



• Drinking fluids through a straw
• Excessive spitting
• Smoking
• Blowing your nose
  

Dental Implant Surgery

The third step involves surgically placing the dental implant, which replaces the root of the damaged or missing tooth. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and consists of two phases. During the first phase, the dentist makes an incision in your gum until the bone is exposed.

The dental care expert then proceeds to drill a hole and securely places the titanium implant. You're then given a healing period of around six to 12 weeks.

This dental implant recovery time allows the implant to integrate with the surrounding tissue fully. An uninterrupted healing process ensures longevity and stability of the dental implant.

The second phase of the dental implant procedure involves placing an abutment on top of the implant. It entails attaching the implant to the tooth's crown. The dentist should tighten the abutment to ensure it remains firm while eating.



This procedure isn't painful; you'll only feel a bit of pressure.

Placing a Permanent Crown

After the gums around the abutment are healed, your dentist will make a custom crown or artificial tooth that matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. The crown is then placed on the abutment, completing the dental implant procedure.



You can either have a permanent implant or a removable one. With a removable dental implant, you can easily clean it and put it back when necessary. However, a permanent implant is glued down or screwed into the abutment, making it impossible to remove.

Aftercare and Maintenance

One of the perks of having dental implants is that you can easily take care of them just like your natural teeth. Maintaining proper oral hygiene ensures that your dental implants remain in optimal condition for an extended period. Frequent dental check-ups, regular flossing, and brushing keep the implants in perfect condition to last your entire life.

The dentist may also advise you on the best special care steps that fit your needs. Always monitor your dental implants for any signs of changes or discomfort. If you notice any abnormalities, inform your dentist promptly.

It's also advisable to stock up on soft foods after the surgery. These will not put too much pressure on your tooth while eating. Further, always have some ice packs on hand to help reduce swelling.



Avoid smoking tobacco as it can stain your teeth or increase your risk of getting root canal infections. Lastly, avoid hard candies, as they may cause damage to your dental implant.

Why You Should Get a Dental Implant

Aside from preventing bone loss caused by damaged or missing teeth, dental implants offer numerous other benefits. Some of the benefits of implants include the following:

• Restores the appearance of your smile
• Improves your overall quality of life
• Protects the jawbone from shrinking as a result of bone loss
• Prevents speech impediments that are common with loose dentures
• Helps you eat with ease
• Keeps the nearby teeth stable
• Maintains the health of the surrounding gums and bone

If you can have your tooth extracted safely without any complications, then you're a good candidate for a dental implant procedure. Patients with health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes will have to undergo further analysis to ensure no complications during the process.



In addition, if you've had radiotherapy conducted on your neck or head, the dentist will observe you on a case-by-case basis to prevent any negative outcomes from the dental implant procedure.

Learn More About the Process of Dental Implants at LeJuene Family Dentistry

The process of dental implants involves various steps that are carefully planned to culminate in a healthy smile and renewed confidence. It's essential to familiarize yourself with all the dental implant steps to ensure clarity and confidence throughout your dental implant journey.

At LeJuene Family Dentistry, we provide the highest standards of care to our patients using the most advanced dental materials and equipment. We install natural-looking dental implants that function just like your lost teeth.



Book an appointment with us today to begin your dental implant journey.