To determine if implants are the right solution for you, it is essential to consult with your dentist, an oral surgery specialist, and/or a prosthodontist. During this examination, the dentist will carefully assess your teeth and gums and evaluate the density and amount of bone. It may be necessary to perform an orthopan or CBCT scan (3D orthopan) to ensure that there is adequate bone structure and to determine where exactly the implant should be placed. The prosthodontist will assess the best way to place the implant to ensure a good final prosthetic result.
Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene, personal habits, and dedication to following subsequent instructions, your dentist will advise you on the most appropriate treatment plan. Some patients, with inadequate bone structure, may first need a bone graft and may require smaller implants, known as mini implants.
Depending on your situation, we will explain how long the entire process will take, how many visits to the clinic will be required, and what to expect after each procedure.
Crowns on implants are practically indistinguishable from natural teeth due to the structural and functional connection between the implant and the bone. Implant placement for replacing a missing tooth can be done at any age after puberty, once bone growth is complete. After the implant is placed in the exact location, a period of osseointegration follows. Osseointegration is the process during which the implant stabilizes and integrates with the jawbone. The implant typically takes about two to three months to stabilize and integrate, after which the procedure concludes with the addition of the crown.
When we say "implant," dentists typically refer to the titanium screw that is inserted into the jawbone. However, this screw also holds the abutment (crown base), and eventually, the crown or bridge is placed on top.
Now, let's start the procedure from the beginning:
Planning implant placement is done using an orthopan or, even better, a CBCT scan. At this stage, the doctor's experience and a good understanding of the jawbone's anatomy and structure are crucial to avoid damaging nerves or sinuses.
1. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area where the implant will be placed.
2. A small incision is made in the gum tissue at the site, and the gum is lifted to access the jawbone where the implant will be placed.
3. Special instruments (burs) are used to prepare the bone and create a bed for the implant. The bed will be gradually expanded with burs of increasing diameters to create enough space for the titanium screw (implant) to replace the tooth root.
4. The implant is manually screwed into the prepared site and tightened with a special tool to ensure the necessary stability.
5. The gum tissue is returned to its original position and sutured in place.
6. After a few months, when the implant has integrated with the bone, the gum tissue covering the implant is removed to access the implant and take an impression for the crown.
7. An abutment is screwed into the implant, which serves as the base for the crown.
8. The crown is tested with the abutment at almost every visit to ensure the perfect fit in the dental arch.
9. The final crown, once made and glazed, is placed (cemented or screwed) onto the abutment that has already been attached to the implant, and the procedure is complete.