Dental Implant Procedure
Dallas, TX
 The effects of tooth loss are much more than the simple aesthetic issues most people will be worried about. Granted, the look of your teeth and smile are some of the most important reasons why most people pursue proper dental health. However, when you lose your teeth, a wide range of immediate and long-term issues might ensue. The surrounding teeth, for instance, might end up growing into the spaces and result in crooked teeth. A tooth implant is one of the most effective solutions for the loss of teeth.
Are you looking to have a dental implant placed? At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, we guarantee a full oral exam and the best experts for dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Before committing to dental implants, it is important to understand the general procedure. Dental implants are surgical prosthetic devices that take the place of natural teeth, with a base that is made of metal. Crowns that look and work like natural teeth are then placed onto this screw-like metal root.
Initial Evaluation
The dental implant procedure generally depends on the nature of one’s jawbone. As a result, the first step is almost always a full dental exam. The dental exam can be the general physical exam or a more comprehensive exam that involves the use of x-rays and 3D images. At this stage, the dentist will also review your overall dental and medical history. If you have had certain heart conditions or orthopedic implants before, then the doctor might well prescribe antibiotics before the surgery. It is at this stage that a treatment plan is then set, depending on the nature of the jawbone. If you have no history of dental implants, then the actual implant placement process begins.
Pre-Implant Procedures
The next stage would typically involve the removal of any damaged teeth. The jawbone is also prepped at this point. In situations where there is a damaged jawbone, there might be a need for grafting. In case grafting was needed, the area will be left to heal first before the process then continues.
Inserting the Implant
After the healing, the actual implant is placed and drilled into the jawbone surgically. Given that this is a surgical procedure, the area will be left to heal first before the dentist continues. One dental implant FAQ is whether a crown is placed at this stage. As the area heals, most people will prefer a temporary crown placed to protect the implant.
Abutment and Permanent Crown Placement
After the area heals, an abutment is placed, which is then covered by the artificial tooth. The whole process might take a few months depending on the complexity of the case and the nature of the jawbone. Much of this time is dedicated to healing after every stage. Certain steps can in some cases be combined depending on the individual situation.
Dental implants are some of the most effective solutions to tooth loss. Implants can last a whole lifetime and are rarely ever affected by infections or tooth decay. If you feel that dental implants are for you, do not hesitate to contact us at Dallas Oral Surgery Associates. Call 214-363-9946 today to set up an appointment for consultation and learn more how dental implants compare to a real tooth. |
