Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth and regain your natural teeth. However, many patients keep wondering about the procedure, how they will prepare for the surgery, and what to expect after getting the implants. In this article, we will answer these questions, along with explaining the whole process that makes up dental implants.
The process of placing implants is done in stages, with required healing times and necessary precautions for each. How quickly you recover depends on the state of your teeth and jawbone, as well as how many implants are needed.
Your dentist will discuss the unique details of your care and what the best approach is for you. In some cases, certain steps may be able to be combined, which would then shorten the surgery and recovery time altogether.
Getting Ready For Dental Implants
Before you can have your dental implants, you will need to undergo a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth to evaluate your oral health and make sure you don’t have any dental issues or gum disease.
This step is essential for the success of the implant placement and helps your dentist determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. Your dentist may take X-rays or 3D imaging scans of your teeth and jawbone.
After that, a teeth extraction process may be required before getting to the dental implant procedure. Note that it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-extraction instructions carefully to prevent any complications from happening, such as infection or dry socket.
You may be required to have a bone grafting procedure before the implants can be placed. During this process, your dentist will use a bone graft to strengthen and add volume to your jawbone. This helps create an ideal foundation for the implant and promotes successful healing afterwards. Discover more.
The Surgery Procedure
It’s important to know that the procedure comes with some discomfort, like any surgical or invasive procedure, that’s why your dentist will apply local anaesthesia or some sort of sedative to ensure that you won’t feel any pain during the surgery.
At the start of the surgery, your dentist or dental surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the underlying bone. They will then drill a tiny hole into the bone and insert a titanium implant post that has been specially designed for you to act as your artificial root. A few months after the post is inserted, your dentist will attach an abutment on top of it in order to support the connection between the implant and the crown.
After that, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth by taking digital images to make sure that your new artificial teeth will fit properly and naturally with your remaining teeth. When the crown is ready, as a final step, your dentist will apply it to the abutment.
Recovering From Dental Implant Surgery
The recovery process after dental implants can vary depending on how many teeth are being replaced and which type of implant was placed (single or multiple). In some cases, you may need to wait up to six months before having the replacement teeth affixed to the implants.
It’s essential that you follow your dentist’s instructions carefully when recovering from dental implant surgery. This helps ensure proper healing of your gums and jawbone, as well as reduces the risk of infection.
Dental Implants Aftercare
A dental implant, like any other invasive procedure, carries risks, so after getting the dental implant surgery, you need to take the aftercare follow-guide that your dentist provides seriously in order to ensure a healthy recovery. These instructions include the following:
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day to maintain your oral health
Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
Eating gentle, soft foods that won’t damage or dislodge your implants
Avoiding sugary foods and drinks to prevent further decay or infection
And for long-term care, you need to avoid some bad habits, such as:
Smoking or using any other tobacco product
Clenching or grinding your teeth, as this can cause the implants to be damaged over time
Not properly taking care of your oral hygiene
Remember to drink plenty of water for overall health since a healthy body is more likely to accept dental implants. In addition, conditions like diabetes or heart disease can lead to poor oral hygiene.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Like other restorative dentistry options, implants can give a smile makeover to the patient. But beyond aesthetics, dental implants have a number of other benefits, including:
Improved speech and ability to chew food properly
Reduced risk of bone deterioration in the jawbone area
Increased self-confidence as you won’t feel embarrassed due to missing teeth
More durable and long-lasting than other tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures
Minimal maintenance is required once healed correctly; no need for special care like with dentures or bridges
Can improve overall oral hygiene since it does not require any additional cleaning steps
Saves you from damaged teeth while restoring your natural smile
By following the steps outlined above, you can get ready for the dental implant procedure like a pro! You should be able to ensure a successful outcome with your dental implant surgery. Getting the right information ahead of time helps ensure that everything goes smoothly before, during, and after the surgery.
Conclusion
Overall, undergoing dental implants is a worthwhile investment and can make all the difference when it comes to restoring your smile and confidence. With careful preparation and proper care after getting dental implants, you will be able to enjoy your new teeth for many years to come.
Want to Learn More About Dental Implants
If you are considering dental implants, you should start by scheduling a consultation. Call Pearl Dental Care at (02) 9158 6312 to schedule an appointment with our friendly dentist, and take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Effect of implant therapy on oral health‐related quality of life (OHIP‐49), health status (SF‐36), and satisfaction of patients with several agenetic teeth: Prospective cohort study https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6099259/
Dental Implant surgery https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622#:~:text=You%20may%20need%20pain%20medications,while%20the%20surgical%20site%20heals.
A dental implant procedure requires precise 3D imaging of a patient’s oral cavity, a custom-made dental implant, time and expertise to fit it and specialised pre- and post-operative care.
This makesdental implant surgery a complex treatment, requiring a skilled and experienced dentist with deep knowledge of the processes involved.
Who needs dental implants?
Dental implants are a good option for people who have lost one or more of their teeth due to trauma, dental disease or old age and don’t want to settle for poorly-fitting dentures.
They are an excellent replacement for natural teeth as they perfectly mimic the look, feel and function of real teeth. Explore more here.
They may also be a better alternative to dental bridges, which involve the grinding of surrounding teeth, which may be healthy, to fit the bridge.
What are the different types of dental implants?
When deciding which implant will be best for a patient, a dentist will consider several factors, such as the volume and density of the jaw and the patient’s dental and general health, before deciding which implants are the best option.
This involves the fitting of an implant into the jaw bone (it acts as an artificial tooth root) and a dental crown placed on top of the gum. An abutment acts as a connector for these two pieces.
This method of teeth implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dentists generally prefer it because
they have a lot of experience in performing this particular dental surgery.
it is long-lasting
it has a low risk of failure
it maintains the health of the jaw
it preserves the facial structure
Subperiosteal implants
Other tooth replacement options could be subperiosteal implants which involve placement of the implant under the gum tissue but above the jaw.
This method is successful for a single dental implant or can be done for multiple implants. Find out more.
Dentists could choose this option for patients who
have a low bone density
have a weak jaw that cannot support an implant
are otherwise good candidates for a tooth implant
Zygomatic implants
A less common method of replacing missing or damaged teeth is the zygomatic implant. In this method, implants are fixed into the cheekbones because a patient may not have enough bone matter in the upper jaw.
Despite the limited number of candidates for this dental procedure, it is chosen by dentists because it
is safe
is a long-lasting solution to replace multiple teeth in the upper jaw
Another option to replace missing teeth is the All-on-4 implants. These are an entire arch of teeth that are fitted into the mouth on four implants placed along the jaw.
All-on-4 dental implants are a good option for those who have lost an entire arch of teeth.
Why do dental implants cost so much?
The final cost of dental implants can depend on various factors.
Expensive raw materials
One of the main reasons for the high cost of dental implants is that they are made of expensive raw materials. The part fitted into the jaw is a zirconium or titanium screw, as is the abutment. The crown itself is made of ceramic or porcelain.
The dentist or oral surgeon’s skill
Implant price can depend on the qualification and skill of the dental practitioner. They undertake targeted studies for years to qualify and then have to stay up-to-date with advancements in knowledge, technique and technology by taking courses and undergoing training regularly.
Location of the dental clinic
Dental clinics in areas that have an affluent population or a high cost of living may have higher dental implant costs because their overheads could be higher.
Pre-implant procedures
The final tooth implant cost is directly related to how many minor or major dental procedures are required before the implant is fitted. These could be one or more of the following:
tooth cleaning
bone graft
sinus lift
tooth extraction
Are dental implants painful?
A dental implant surgery to replace damaged or missing teeth is performed under sedation or local or general anaesthesia, or a combination of them. Once the procedure is over, the patient is prescribed medicines that help with pain management.
Is dental implant cost covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies in Australia, including Medicare, don’t cover dental implants unless a strong case is made for the patient’s quality of life getting negatively impacted if they don’t get the implants.
Private health insurance for dental implant treatment
Certain private insurance companies could cover this surgical procedure if a patient has bought their premium plan, which covers tooth replacement.
Which payment plan can I use for dental implants?
At Pearl Dental Care want to make dental treatments affordable for all our patients. To this end, we work with OpenPay to offer plans that suit you and allow you to pay in convenient instalments.
What is the cost of tooth implants?
The cost of a single dental implant usually starts at $2,000, while All-on-4 implants cost will start at $17,000. Remember, the final cost will vary on a number of factors, including how many implants are required.
Why choose us for dental implants?
Pearl Dental Care is a one-chair dental practice. We ensure you experience personalised care for all oral health requirements, whether it is for minor treatment or a complex procedure to fit artificial teeth after the loss of a natural tooth.
Our high-quality dental team will meet you for an initial consultation that will include questions on your medical history, 3D imaging of your mouth and advice on the best dental implant options.
We will also talk to you about making this treatment affordable so you can get the perfect smile you deserve!
If you are looking for the best tooth implant services in Sydney,contact us on (02) 9158 6312 today!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Benefits for Each Type of Dental Implant | Southern Minnesota Periodontics Dental Implants https://www.smpimplants.com/benefits-for-each-type-of-dental-implant/#:~:text=Endosteal%20implants%20are%20less%20prone,and%20maintenance%20of%20endosteal%20implants.
Dental implants: Costs explained | How to check your health cover | Finder https://www.finder.com.au/dental-implants
MedicineNet – Disadvantages of Dental Implants https://www.medicinenet.com/disadvantages_of_dental_implants/article.htm
WebMD – Dentures and Dental Implants: What Are Your Options? https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-dentures-implants
Being told you need a bone graft to get a dental implant may sound scary, but it’s a relatively minor procedure commonly used with dental implants.
Bone grafting for dental implants is required when a patient’s jaw bone structure is insufficient to provide support for implants to be used to replace missing teeth. The aim is to reconstruct lost bone to enable the placement of dental implants.
Dentists use various bone regeneration techniques. Generally, a bone graft involves using the patient’s bone (taken from the mouth or other parts of the body) or dental biomaterials surgically inserted by a dentist experienced in oral surgery and implantology into the areas that need regeneration.
Why not get a consultation at your local dental clinic to assess your jaw bone’s health should you plan to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant?
Common causes of bone density loss include the following:
Trauma or injury to the mouth or facial areas
After tooth extraction – in the empty space where the extracted tooth was
Periodontal disease – chronic inflammation and infection in the gums
Developmental defects
Who requires bone grafting for dental implants?
A bone graft is usually needed for patients with bone loss in their jaw. A dentist may recommend the procedure if you
Hope to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant
Are having a tooth extracted
Have areas of bone loss due to periodontal disease
A bone graft is an effective method of reconstructing or repairing bone and involves transplanting bone tissue in the region of bone loss. Bone grafting for dental implants is usually carried out under local anaesthesia, except for complex cases where a patient may need to be sedated with general anaesthesia.
During surgery, a small incision is made into the gums, and the tissue is moved back slightly to expose the jaw bone. The dentist then inserts the bone grafting material and closes the incision with sutures. In some cases, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is combined with the bone graft to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration. The body utilises the tissue to grow new cells and recreate the bone in that area.
Types of bone grafts
There are various types of bone grafts used in different situations. These include:
Socket graft – this is placed in the empty socket following a tooth extraction to prevent the sides from caving in. Sometimes a dental implant can be placed simultaneously, depending on the individual’s case.
Ridge augmentation – If a patient has been missing teeth for a while, the supporting jawbone may have less width and density than before. Ridge augmentation increases the volume and width of the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for dental implants or other restorations.
Sinus lift – When a person is missing their upper back teeth, the maxillary sinuses that sit just above can drop down and move into the space previously occupied by the teeth roots. A dentist would be unable to place dental implants for fear of penetrating the sinus membrane. A sinus lift aims to raise the sinus back to its original position. The dentist then places a dental bone graft beneath the sinus to create a solid foundation for implants later.
Periodontal graft – When gum disease is severe, the bacteria in the mouth and the diseased tissue can lead to bone reabsorption. In this situation, a dentist may recommend a bone graft to restore the lost bone enabling it to support a tooth or dental implant.
In most cases, a patient must wait 2-9 months for a bone graft to heal fully before receiving a dental implant.
Recovery and post-operation
Their implant dentist monitors a patient’s recovery. They must follow the post-operation instructions provided by the dentist to guarantee a successful outcome. Painkillers and antibiotics will be prescribed to ease pain following surgery and prevent infection.
More significant bone grafts may cause considerable inflammatory reactions in some cases. While not always painful, they may cause notable bruising and swelling, which should vanish within a week or two.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection in the graft, which endangers the aim of the procedure. The chances of generating bone are minimal once a graft becomes infected. A patient should heal well by following instructions and attending the dental clinic regularly for the ensuing weeks and months. They should also adopt a soft diet in the early days and avoid spitting, brushing over the area, and using mouthwash vigorously.
How long does it take to achieve bone regeneration?
It takes several months for the body to accept the bone graft and generate new, strong bone. Waiting time can be between two and nine months, depending on the regeneration technique used, the type of defect, and a person’s ability to heal.
This biological process can’t be rushed, or there’s a risk of losing what has been achieved. Patients must exercise patience. If you’re waiting to undergo dental implant surgery, your implant dentist can tell you when your bone is sufficiently strong to support an implant.
So, there you have it. All you need to know about bone grafting for dental implants. Need more information? Want to see if you’re a suitable candidate for a dental implant? Get a dental consultation near you at Pearl Dental Care in St Marys, 2760 or call us on (02) 9158 6312.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Science Direct – Dental Biomaterials https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/dental-biomaterials
PubMed – Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in dental and oral surgery: from the wound healing to bone regeneration https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23763951/#:~:text=Platelet%2Drich%20plasma%20(PRP)%20is%20a%20new%20approach%20to,surgery%2C%20especially%20in%20aging%20patients.
Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. The procedure can take several months to complete, and the results are definitely worth the wait! But how long does a dental implant procedure take from start to finish? You’ll need to confirm with a dentist that offers consultation appointments, but here’s a look at each stage of the dental implant process—from the initial examination to the final placement of the implant.
The Dental Implant Process: From Start to Finish
Besides the healing time, most surgical procedures are deemed finished after the surgery. However, that isn’t the case with dental implants. In fact, one of the most crucial parts of the process is just beginning once the implants are placed—and it is vital to the success of the dental implant procedure.
Broadly, the dental implant process consists of three stages—the initial consultation, the implant surgery and the attachment of the artificial tooth. However, the exact nature of the process may not be the same for everyone, and additional steps may be required before or after the implant surgery. These will affect how long the procedure takes to complete.
For example, dental implant surgery must be performed on a healthy mouth. Thus, the dentist will treat these first if there are signs of active gum disease or tooth decay. Additionally, if the jawbone is not dense enough to hold an implant, bone graft surgery may need to be carried out—and it may take a year to complete the dental implant process.
Let’s take a closer look at each stage.
Initial Consultation and Examination
During an initial consultation, the dentist will take a thorough medical history and review your dental records.
They will also assess your current oral health and thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues.
X-rays of the mouth or CT scans may be taken to evaluate the health of your jaw.
Suppose you are deemed a suitable candidate for dental implants, a personalised treatment plan is developed, and impressions of your mouth are taken so the laboratory can prepare your custom-made artificial tooth (or teeth).
Get a dental consultation near you to find out more. It should generally take 1-2 hours.
Dental Implant Surgery
The surgery to insert a dental implant is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, which numbs the area around the implant. However, conscious sedation can be given in addition to the local anaesthetic if you are of a nervous disposition.
The procedure is relatively straightforward and typically takes around an hour to complete. Recovery from the surgery is usually quick, and most people quickly return to their normal activities within days. How long does a dental implant (surgical) procedure take? Typically, it takes 1-2 hours to place one implant.
Healing Time
After dental implant surgery, the area is left to heal. During this time, the implant fuses with the jawbone (osseointegration). Dental implants are typically made from titanium (a material compatible with the human body), so they won’t be rejected and provide a secure and robust base on which to mount an artificial tooth.
Attaching the Replacement Tooth
The attachment of the replacement tooth is the final part of the dental implant process. In patients with healthy jaw bones, this can often occur around 3-4 months after the dental implants are inserted into the jaw. However, if augmentation of the jawbone is necessary with a bone graft, it may be up to a year before the procedure is finalised.
Attaching the artificial tooth is straightforward and performed under a local anaesthetic—generally taking no longer than an hour.
Looking After Dental Implants
In truth, the dental implant procedure may well be finished, but dental implants require a lifetime of care if you want them to last. Just as natural teeth need cleaning to prevent bacterial plaque, dental implants require the same attention.
You must have a thorough twice-daily cleaning and flossing routine to keep the tissues surrounding any dental implants free from plaque and healthy to prevent peri-implantitis (a condition similar to gum disease that destroys gum and bone tissue).
Besides your cleaning routine, you must visit a dentist regularly who can monitor the health of your mouth and dental implants. If problems are spotted, early treatment can often nip them in the bud. For example, if you have a build-up of tartar on your implants, the dentist can remove it before any harmful bacteria can run amok. Unfortunately, if you neglect your dental implants, there is a chance you may lose them.
How long does a dental implant procedure take: The bottom line
The dental implant process is not the quickest treatment you can get—unlike a crown or denture. But, the beauty of dental implants is that they mimic natural teeth so well that there is no other tooth restoration option that matches them for aesthetics, feel and function. Get a consultation at your local dental clinic today if you’d like to know more about dental implants and whether you are suitable for them.
References
Healthline: What you need to know about a dental bone graft
If you have missing teeth and are considering implant-based restorations as an option, then it pays to understand the pros and cons of dental implants to know if they’re right for you. In this post, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of undergoing dental implant surgery so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started.
Firstly, dental implants are expensive
Initially, anyway, a dental implant procedure does not come cheap. In fact, when compared to conventional restorations like bridges and dentures, dental implants can come in at two or three times the cost.
However, if you look beyond the short term, dental implants can last for many years, so it’s likely, that you will only pay once during your lifetime. On the contrary, because conventional restorations will need replacing frequently, you may end up spending more than you think over the course of a lifetime.
The good news is that many dentists now provide flexible payment options for procedures like dental implant surgery, so you’ll probably be able to spread the cost of treatment rather than having to stump it all up in one go.
An implant restoration involves undergoing dental implant surgery
The surgical aspect of a dental implant procedure is something that cannot be avoided. So it’s understandable that people who can’t undergo surgery or are worried or concerned about it may want to choose a different option.
That said, in most cases, undergoing dental implant surgery is a quick and straightforward process taking less than an hour. Our experienced team at Pearl Dental Care, for example, ensure that patients feel minimal to zero discomfort during the implant placement process. Moreover, many patients are surprised by how easy it is and tell us that ‘it was over before they knew it.’
Getting a dental implant is not a quick fix solution
You may already know that the process of getting a dental implant cannot be done in one sitting. Typically, a dental implant procedure, from start to finish, takes anywhere between 4-9 months to complete. Primarily, this is because time is needed for the implant to stabilise in the jaw. So why is this important?
Dental implants are a standalone treatment. In other words, they don’t rely on the support of other structures in the mouth. They instead form a stable foundation by fusing with the existing bone tissue in a process known as osseointegration.
Once the implant and jawbone become one, it’s sufficient to support a single dental crown, a bridge, or as a series of dental implants supporting a complete arch of replacement teeth.
Unfortunately, osseointegration is a natural process that cannot be rushed, taking 2-5 months on average. Once fully stabilised, the implant and its restoration become an integral part of the mouth.
So, while this aspect may be a disadvantage to some people, others realise that what they eventually have is a natural-looking and long-lasting fixed restoration that is easy to care for.
Of course, this post is all about the pros and cons of dental implants. So, as we’ve talked about some of the initial disadvantages, it’s only fair to balance it and discuss the advantages.
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth
Elaborating more on the above section, once a dental implant is fully stabilised and the permanent restoration attached, a dental implant is arguably the closest thing to natural teeth that modern dentistry allows. Dental implants enable you to bite and chew normally, while caring for them is as easy as brushing and flossing regularly.
Let’s touch on the chewing and biting aspect for a moment because it’s an important one. If you opt for a conventional restoration like a dental bridge or denture, chewing and biting capability is often limited. With some studies quoting a significant reduction in bite force, it’s understandable why long-term denture wearers may need to adapt their diet.
On the contrary, research suggests that within 2-3 months of getting a dental implant, your chewing capability may be 80% – 85% of your normal bite. This means that as soon as your dental implants have stabilised in the jaw, you should be able to eat whatever you like.
A dental implant prevents bone loss
As far as the pros and cons of dental implants go, this is perhaps one of the most significant advantages.
When teeth are missing, the bone tissue that once supported the natural tooth root gets reabsorbed back into the body because it is no longer required. This, in turn, causes the jawbone to shrink. In fact, in the space of one year, the jawbone diminishes by around 30%
Unfortunately, conventional restorations cannot halt the bone loss process, which is why the jaw’s ever-changing shape requires dentures or dental bridges to be changed often.
Conversely, because dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw, they re-stimulate the remaining bone tissue. The result is no further bone loss and, by default, no more premature ageing.
So there you have it, the pros and cons of dental implants explained. If you want to know more about dental implants and how they work, get a consultation at your local dental clinic. A dentist that offers a consultation should take the time to answer any questions or queries you have about the dental implant process while checking to see if you’re a good candidate.
Here at Pearl Dental Care, we ensure you understand every aspect of the dental implant process before committing. So, if you are considering getting implants but are still unsure, call us and book a dental consultation near you. We can help you to create a fully functioning and aesthetically pleasing smile that you can be proud of.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References:
NCBI – Evaluation of Maximum Bite Force In Patients With Complete Dentures
If you’re thinking about having dental implants, you probably already know dental implants are a great choice of tooth replacement. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed below the gums’ surface and secured to the jawbone. This means they look and feel just like natural teeth, but it is a multi-stage process and takes a while to complete. So, just how long does the dental implant procedure take? It’s best to get an opinion from a dentist that offers consultation appointments, but we outline how each stage takes below.
The Dental Implant Procedure Stages
The dental implant procedure involves several vital stages that typically take several months to complete from start to finish. This involves the initial consultation and suitability assessment, the dental implant surgery and the completion of the implant procedure with the attachment of your new artificial tooth.
Initial Consultation and Suitability Assessment
Dental implants are one of the most sought-after treatments for replacing missing teeth. It’s easy to see why. They are robust, stable, and look and act like natural teeth. Furthermore, with reasonable care, they can last a lifetime. However, although popular, they are not suitable for everyone. There is meticulous planning involved in the process to determine whether you are ideal for the procedure, which will help ensure your implant’s longevity.
During the initial consultation, an examination of your mouth and jawbone will be conducted, and tests, such as x-rays and CT scans taken of your mouth. The dentist will ask about your goals from the treatment and your health history, as these can affect the suitability for dental implants. This part of the process typically takes between 1 and 2 hours.
Dental Health
It’s necessary to have a clean bill of oral health before you are considered for a dental implant procedure. If you have tooth decay or evidence of gum disease, these will both need to be treated before the implant treatment begins. The treatment also requires a viable, healthy jawbone to hold the implant. If you have bone loss in the jawbone, it may be challenging to place the implant. However, it is possible to have a bone graft to increase bone availability, a standard dental procedure for patients with dental implants.
General Health
Some medical conditions may make it more difficult for dental implants. Still, as each case is taken on its own merits, if you have diabetes, auto-immune disease, blood clotting disorder or other long-term health issues, you may be suitable for implants, depending on how well managed your condition is. However, your answer to ‘how long does the dental implant procedure take’ may be several months longer than someone without any health issues. Get a consultation at your local dental clinic to discuss whether your health problems may be a complication.
Smoking
The risk of implant failure in people who smoke is significantly greater than in non-smokers. We’re all aware of the damage smoking does to the body, but as the mouth is the first recipient of cigarette toxins, it can have far-reaching consequences for dental implants.
The implants are placed into the jawbone in a surgical procedure.
After surgery, the body requires good blood flow to transport nutrients to the wound site to help tissue repair and fight infection.
Smoking diminishes blood flow, putting this process at risk and increasing the risk of disease that may result in implant failure.
Furthermore, long-term smokers are more susceptible to gum disease that destroys the gum, bone and other tissues that support teeth. It can also lead to peri-implantitis—a similar condition that affects the tissue surrounding dental implants—eventually leading to implant failure.
Dental Implant Procedure Surgery
The dental implant procedure is performed in the dentist’s office—typically under a local anaesthetic. But, if you are anxious about the surgery, conscious sedation may be offered. This relaxes patients, so they are still aware of requests from the dentist to perform simple tasks, such as opening their mouths but are unlikely to remember anything. Many people feel as though they have been asleep when they have been awake through the whole procedure.
The procedure involves making a flap incision on the gum. This is so the dentist can access the jawbone. A hole is drilled in the bone, and the implant is placed. The implant is covered when the gum is stitched back into position and left to heal. During the healing process, osseointegration occurs— when the dental implants and jawbone fuse together, after which the artificial tooth can be attached.
How long does the dental implant procedure take to complete after surgery? Typically, osseointegration takes four to six months, but if you have had a bone graft, it could be as long as a year.
Attachment of Artificial Tooth
The final part of the dental implant procedure is completed once the artificial tooth is attached. This is a straightforward procedure performed in the dentist’s office under a local anaesthetic to numb the gum. A small cut is made to expose the implant, and the artificial tooth is attached using a connector (abutment) that joins them together. This part of the process takes less than an hour.
How Long Does The Dental Implant Procedure Take from Start to Finish?
To recap, the dental implant procedure generally takes four to six months from initial consultation to attachment of an artificial tooth. However, if you have health issues, it can take up to a year. Book a consultation near you to find out more about dental implants. Contact Pearl Dental Care in St Marys today.
This step is essential for the success of the implant placement and helps your dentist determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. Your dentist may take X-rays or 3D imaging scans of your teeth and jawbone. 
Endosteal implants
Sinus lift – 
They will also assess your current oral health and thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. 
Once the implant and jawbone become one, it’s sufficient to support a single dental crown, a bridge, or as a series of 
The implants are placed into the jawbone in a surgical procedure.