A dental implant is made up of a titanium rod that is inserted into the tooth. This is topped with an abutment which then has the replacement tooth fastened to it. It is currently the most permanent and effective way to replace missing teeth, and a way to anchor denture.
How are dental implants fitted?
The procedure to fit dental implants is quite involved and will require at least a couple of trips to our dentists office. The first visit will be to assess the situation and discuss the best options available to fit your budget and your needs, financially, functionally and cosmetically.
We will have a look at your mouth and look at what needs doing. We will then talk it through with you before doing any work. If you want to proceed, we shall. If we need to remove any bad teeth, we can that first. We may be able to fit the implant at the site of the old tooth right away. If we can, we will. Sometimes it can all be done the same day.
Otherwise, we will make an incision in the gum using virtually planned and guided surgery to place the implant.
Then we have to leave your gum and jaw to heal for a few weeks before you need to come back. The next stage is fitting the implant for a final restoration. Depending on your situation, we may be able to install the abutment at the same time. We can’t always do this so it’s often necessary to wait a few weeks until the jaw is fully healed.
Then we fit the abutment and if possible, the artificial tooth overtop. Again, this isn’t always possible, so you may need to come back once more to have the tooth installed. We will discuss all this during the consultation.
We make sure the tooth fits perfectly, that it sits atop the abutment securely and matches the surrounding teeth. When we’re finished, you nor anyone else will ever know you have a false tooth in your mouth!
While having dental implants can be a long, involved process, it does not have to be. It’s also a worthwhile one as having a dental implant prevents bone loss if you have a tooth removed and ensures your smile still looks great and stays healthy. It can involve minor discomfort, but that quickly passes and the result is well worth the effort!
If you would like to learn more about dental implants or would like a consultation, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today. We’re here to help!
