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Getting a dental implant may sound traumatic, but the reality is that it’s a very routine procedure that dental surgeons carry out on a daily basis, and understanding the process can make it much more approachable. If you’re thinking about getting an implant for a missing tooth or you’re just curious about how it all works, this guide will walk you through the steps involved in the dental implant process.
Consultation
The process of getting dental implant/s begins with an initial consultation. In Chiang Mai, known for its excellent dental services, you’ll find many skilled professionals ready to assist you, especially in places like GrandDent Dental Clinic. During your visit, a dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your needs, and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for implants. Expect a thorough examination, which will include X-rays and a 3D scan. The Xray images will help to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and plan the precise positioning of the implant.
Pre-Surgery Preparations
Once you’ve been greenlighted for the procedure, you may need some preparatory steps. If your jawbone isn’t dense enough to support an implant, a bone graft might be necessary. This involves adding bone material to your jaw to create a solid foundation for the implant. Don’t worry, while it does sound intense, bone grafting is a common procedure and usually requires a few months of healing before moving forward to the implant placement.
The Procedure
On the day of the implant procedure, you’ll be given local anesthesia so you’re comfortable and don’t feel any pain. The dentist will then make a small incision in the gum to access the jawbone. A special drill is then used to create a space in the bone, where the titanium implant will be placed. The implant will act as an artificial tooth root and is left to integrate with the bone in a process called osseointegration, which can take a few months. During this time, the bone grows around the implant, securing it firmly in place.
Healing
After the implant has fully integrated with the bone, a small connector piece known as an abutment is attached. This is done in a minor procedure where the gum is reopened, and the abutment is screwed onto the implant. The gum is then closed around, but not over, the abutment. After this there is another period of healing to allow the gums to recover, which usually lasts a couple of weeks.
Crowning
The last step in the dental implant process is placing the crown, which is the visible part of the tooth. The dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Once the crown has been made, it’s attached to the abutment to complete the process.
Benefits
There are many benefits to a dental implant, which include general comfort and eating ability, which if you have spent time with a missing tooth you will know not to take this for granted. A missing tooth is a real discomfort when eating as food cannot be chewed properly and you often find pieces of your food, stuck in the gap. With an implant you will also notice that your speech is improved. Depending on which tooth is missing some people develop a bit a lisp due to the tongue slipping into the gap while talking. They will also look and feel like natural teeth, offering a permanent solution for missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth. Implants can also help maintain jawbone structure, as they stimulate bone growth, unlike other tooth replacement options.
However, considering dental implants involves weighing factors such as cost, time, and your overall health. While the upfront cost may be higher than alternatives like dentures or bridges, dental implants are a long-term investment in your oral health. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the longevity of your implant.
For those in the region, implant dental Chiang Mai can offer a great combination of expertise and advanced technology to ensure the success of your dental implant journey.
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